NAMIBIA - Wolwedans, Namibrand Nature Reserve
NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of Southern Africa’s largest private nature reserves, was a dream realized – to extend the desert frontiers through the integration of a large number of former sheep farms. The aim was to develop a sanctuary, free of fences, so that the wildlife could once again roam naturally in their original habitat.
A quote by travel writer Amy Schoemann describes it perfectly:
"Imagine the flamboyant magnificence of the Sossusvlei dunes, the mystique and subtle beauty of the Skeleton Coast and the legendary red sands of the Kalahari synthesised into one multifaceted desert reserve and you have NamibRand…. Add to it vast fields of mysterious fairy circles, an intriguing history and a species-rich flora and fauna (including Namibia’s only true endemic Dune Lark) and you might have an inkling of what makes this reserve so unusual”.
The main objective of NamibRand Nature Reserve is the conservation of this beautiful land on a self-sustainable basis. The lodges and camps on the NamibRand Nature Reserve are limited to 20 beds each. The park is governed by a strict code of ethics and the number of guests this wilderness paradise can accommodate is restricted. Despite the tremendous potential for more tourist development, it was decided that, in theory, every bed must be surrounded by 1000 hectares of nature - now and forever. This means that every guest at Wolwedans has one million square meters to themselves - a sanctuary free of tour buses and overland trucks.
Wolwedans is located in the heart of the NamibRand Nature Reserve, adjacent to the world-famous Sossusvlei, nestling into the dunes against a backdrop of extraordinary natural beauty.
The Wolwedans Philosophy:
"Wolwedans is more than just a collection of camps – its ethos lies in setting an example in responsible tourism, the empowerment of its employees and its commitment to the conservation of the NamibRand Nature Reserve"
DUNES LODGE:
The Dunes Lodge is perched on top of a dune plateau, with panoramic 360 degree views.
The Lodge is built using a combination of wood and canvas and has the ambience of a tented camp. Each of the nine spacious chalets has en-suite bathrooms and a private veranda. Guests are encouraged to sleep with canvas blinds open to take full advantage of the magnificent desert night skies.
The main complex (completely rebuilt in 2003) consists of two lounges, a number of sundowner decks, a fireplace, a tea deck, a library, wine cellar and two dining rooms. The lodge swimming pool is suspended above the sand. All communal areas open out onto decks with superb views.
Guided drives into the desert from here are scenic and fascinating and in some of these areas you will also come across the mysterious "fairy circles".
BOULDERS CAMP:
Boulders Camp is located about 28 miles south of Wolwedans and sleeps a maximum of 8 guests in 4 spacious tents. The main area comprises a dining and lounge tent, a breakfast deck and an open fireplace.
From Boulders Camp, you can explore the deep south of NamibRand Nature Reserve, on guided scenic drives, or on 2-3 hour walking safaris, treading the ancient hunting grounds of the Bushmen and marveling at the signs of survival of desert species.
