Namibia – Lodging

When travelling to Namibia, I often use a lot of time planning which accommodation that is best, cheapest or in the best location, related to waterholes, view etc. I know ahead that things might be expensive, so I try to find some budget- friendly alternatives, especially in the bigger cities, but it’s really hard, when I see what the different other options may provide. Often I fall for the temptation to book something better, even though I shouldn’t…

A small guide:

Namibia Wildlife Resorts ( NWR) is a State owned enterprise, which run all the National parks and accommodations within them. The give cheaper prices to Namibians and SADC residents, which means that prices for foreigners, like me, becomes higher. Then again, much of their income goes to protect animals and run the national parks, not only the accommodation facilities, so I’m also happy to contributing to that.
NWR lodging is often the only option, if you wish to stay inside the parks. In Etosha, where the animals and waterholes is, or inside the gate at Sossusvlei, so you can reach the dunes before the sun rises.
When that’s being said, the standard of the NWR accommodation may vary. If you for instance are going to Etosha national park, you might find much better accommodation value by overnighting right outside the gates of the park, than within. This is particularly the case on the eastern side of the park, close to Namutoni, as the middle/southern entrance is close to Okaukuejo waterhole and you will not want to miss sitting by that at night! (I’ll write more about the park later).
If you’re short of funds, or just want to see the bright stars better, and still be in a good position, you should consider bringing a tent and some sleeping bags. Many of the NWR resorts have camping spots, with ablution, kitchen and barbecue facilities and often also a pool. In Sossusvlei, for instance, camping is highly recommended, as it brings you inside the gate.
You can book the NWR lodging online through: https://nwr.cimsoweb.com. Note that you should book far ahead in time (often a year or at least 6 months), as it gets full very quickly.
Gondwana collection is an up-market, eco-friendly, hospitality business which has amazing lodging options in many of the most beautiful locations around Namibia. The quality is really good, but you pay for what you get. Then again, compared to what you pay, as a foreigner, at NWR, it might not be too bad. I would definitively recommend spending at least a few nights at Gondwana facilities, especially in the Southern part of the country, as they have picked the most beautiful spots for their lodges.
I also use booking.com a lot, especially in the cities. It gives the flexibility to find the best prices and change your mind.