You will be welcomed at the lodge with the friendliness that Namibians are so well known for, warm cloths to wipe away the dust, and refreshing drinks. You can retire to your rooms immediately for a well-deserved rest, or start planning your activities!
Every aspect of Grootberg Lodge has been designed to maximize the awe-inspiring views. Whether it's the expansive windows in the dining room and lounge, the generous deck holding ample seating, the inviting infinity pool, or the guest rooms themselves - you'll truly feel as though you can gaze out to the very ends of the earth while savouring a drink on the precipice of this astonishing plateau.
A wealth of activities awaits, allowing you to intimately encounter the region and its inhabitants. From tracking rhinos to immersive excursions into the local community village, these outings bring you not only closer to nature but also foster connections with the resilient people who eke out a living in this arid semi-desert and parched landscape.
With a strong focus on sustainable tourism, the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy is proud to be part of an international case study on how conservation efforts can be successful and environmentally responsible. Every effort is made to lighten our footprint on the fragile eco-systems in these uninhabited north-western regions and increase conservation efforts and awareness.
Grootberg Lodge stands on the edge of the plateau, offering weary travellers an opportunity to relax and absorb the breath-taking surroundings. Thatched roofs fill the air with the scents of the African savannah, while the kitchen adds a delicious aroma at mealtimes, thrice daily, and with the added delight of afternoon home-baked cake and hot drinks.
The lounge area has comfortable couches, the bar is always open to offer hot or cold drinks, and the dining area has plenty of seating to admire the view from, while you eat or perhaps catch up on emails.
The swimming pool is available to cool down in the heat of the day, perhaps while looking for game in the valley below, or watching an eagle soar above you on the updrafts. Alternatively, sundowners on the deck are a magical time of day as the bush quietens and the air cools, while the sunset paints the sky above you – perfect for those unforgettable photographic memories.
Nestled along the edge of the plateau, you'll find sixteen charming chalets. Here, you have the chance to savour the breath-taking vista right from your bed or while relaxing on your personal deck. Crafted using the materials found in the natural environment, these chalets seamlessly merge with the landscape, aligning with our commitment to minimizing our ecological impact wherever feasible.
Each chalet is equipped with a tea and coffee station, although please remember that as we are solar powered we cannot fit each chalet with a kettle, thus we have made provisions for this by supplying flasks of hot water whenever you might require it – even early morning. Please do advise reception of your requirements or request a flask should you want at any time of day.
Please note that as we are solar based, there are no electric outlets in the chalets, however, there is a charging station at reception for all your devices.
WiFi is available in the main area of the lodge on a voucher system, but due to our remote location this is supplied by satellite and connectivity cannot be guaranteed. We kindly request that large uploads or downloads be limited where possible.
Reserving a stay at Grootberg Lodge is an unmissable experience that offers awe-inspiring views, the potential to encounter fascinating wildlife, insights into the area's history and the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy, and the renowned warmth and friendliness characteristic of your Namibian hosts.
The definition of sustainable tourism by the UN Environment Program is “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” Grootberg Lodge places a strong emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly tourism as one of its primary priorities, and these efforts were rewarded when a place was won in the 2020 Sustainable Destinations Top 100, acknowledging its commitment to responsible tourism and unique allure.
Namibia is a country of diversity, from thick bushveld to arid desert, and this diversity becomes even more apparent between our dry and wet seasons. With rainfall only during our summer months, and more predominantly between January to March, the first sprinkles of rain that are gratefully received spark an incredible change. From the burnt gold of the grass to the blackened and leafless trees, life bursts forth in abundance. Flowers bloom among the thick green grass, the trees once again provide shade and fodder for the game, and the unforgettable sights of the lily fields dotted here and there across the plains are once more renewed. Although this abundance of water makes game harder to find, the sight of this arid land suddenly flourishing is remarkable.
During your stay, you will hopefully encounter some of the larger inhabitants of the area – elephant and black rhino. As these animals wander freely over a vast space, sightings are never guaranteed, but you can hope to be one of the fortunate few to have to the experience of seeing these mammoths in their natural environment.
In addition, Grootberg boasts a large population of Oryx, kudu and springbok, as well as the more agile klipspringers. The more elusive wildcats, civets, and aardwolves are present and have been seen, although they are naturally shy creatures and adept at hiding themselves. Occasionally leopard and lion grace us with their presence and this is always an awe-inspiring sight.
If birding is your passion, we have regular sightings of Black Eagles, Pale-winged starlings, Bushshrikes, and Bare-cheeked babblers.
Your adventure begins on arrival at the lower gate of the lodge. If you have a 4x4 vehicle and have experience in this terrain you can take on the track up to the plateau yourself. If not, a guide will drive you, however, be prepared for a hair-raising experience.
From this point, the charm of Grootberg Lodge will envelop you. Enjoy sundowners on the deck or by the pool, as you watch the sun painting the sky with vibrant colours, or immediately start your stay with a scenic guided afternoon drive or walk across the plateau. Game, plant and birdlife thrive in this remote corner of the country, and you will be sure to see a sight that will have you reaching for your camera.
After a sumptuous dinner and a night in a comfortable bed with silence and the stars as your companions, you will wake refreshed and ready for a day of tracking the elusive and endangered black rhino through its natural environment. Alternatively, you can join our guides in searching for the desert-adapted elephants that also call the area home.
An additional day is a must, as you will get to book a trip to visit the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy and have a taste of the local life. Being invited into the warm heart of the village and learning the ways of this community and how they survive in this remote and arid community is a special and unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.