Kulala Desert Lodge (Sossusvlei)

Kulala Desert Lodge is at the foot of the majestic Sossusvlei Dunes; the most unique destination and one of the top accommodation establishments in Sossusvlei. Kulala Desert Lodge is part of the Wilderness Safaris Collection. Wilderness Safaris has set an example of preserving biodiversity, conserving wildlife, and uplifting local communities.

Explore the area’s desert-adapted wildlife and the dramatic landscape of the Sossusvlei dunes while staying here. If you only visit one place in Namibia; then it would have to be Sossusvlei. Enjoy alfresco dining before sleeping on your rooftop to appreciate the star-filled night sky (If this is to your liking; there is an indoor bedroom too).

The lodge’s position provides vistas looking directly onto the majestic red dunes of Sossusvlei. Moreover; it is the closest lodge to Sossusvlei; accessed via a private gate exclusive to Wilderness Safaris. The Kulala Wilderness Reserve is home to two camps; Kulala Desert Lodge and the spectacular Little Kulala Camp.

Skip to Kulala Desert Lodge Rates and Special Offers

Kulala Desert Lodge Accommodation

The camp comprises 23 x thatched and canvas tents (including two x family units). Each sits on a wooden platform, and a flat rooftop for sleepouts under the stars. The family units consist of two bedrooms. Each has two x three-quarter beds and an en-suite. The main bathroom has an indoor shower, outdoor shower, double basin vanity, and a separate toilet. The second bathroom has an indoor shower (no outdoor shower), double basin vanity, and a separate toilet. They have separate entrances, however, they share an outdoor deck; making them perfect for friends traveling together.

Each brick and canvas tent is specially adapted to the unique desert conditions; by being built on a platform to ensure maximum airflow while an extended thatch roof provides a cool respite from the sun.

All the tents have a writing desk and chair, easy chairs, a luggage rack, an electronic safe,  and of course tea and coffee-making facilities. Hairdryers and mosquito nets are available on request. During the winter months, hot water bottles and extra blankets are provided. Although there is no air-conditioning, the rooms have a ceiling fan. The verandas offer views of the dunes.

A private rooftop area for sleep-outs is accessed by wooden stairs behind the tent; weather permitting and operated subject to the discretion of the Lodge Manager. They are equipped with bedrolls, however, open to all the elements.

This camp can accommodate 50 guests in total (46 x adults and 4 x children); plus 6 guides / pilots / tour leaders; subject to concession numbers and / or concession availability.

Kulala Desert Lodge Facilities

The main area includes a pool and a wraparound veranda; that is partially shaded with loungers; overlooking a waterhole that attracts wildlife such as oryx, ostrich, and jackal. The thatch-roofed main area is built entirely of clay bricks; comprises a reception area, lounge, dining, and bar areas. During the winter months, a gas heater is stationed in the main area and there is an open fireplace. There is complimentary Wi-Fi access from the main area and a Safari Trading Store.

Sossusvlei Wildlife

Desert-adapted wildlife to be seen on the Kulala Wilderness Reserve includes ostrich, springbok, gemsbok, spotted hyena; and the occasional brown hyaena. Smaller creatures such as bat-eared foxes, black-backed jackals, porcupines, Cape foxes, and aardwolves can also be seen. One bird, the aptly named dune lark, has its entire global distribution limited to the area. A surprisingly diverse array of insects, reptiles, and rodents make their home around Kulala Desert Lodge. At dusk, the call of barking geckoes can be heard, and walks reveal the smaller creatures; the buck-spoor spider with its multi-entrance burrow or the ambush specialist antlion, to name but a few.

Activities at Kulala Desert Lodge

Take in the sweeping scenery on nature drives and guided nature trails; while guided electric-powered fat bike excursions are a fun way to explore the spectacular open plains. Top off an extraordinary desert experience with a soaring hot air balloon flight over the dune field. Ideal for introducing your family to the natural wonders of Namibia.

Do as much or as little as you like - some ideas

• Nature drives. During the winter months, hot water bottles (on the early morning game drives only), blankets, and lined ponchos are provided.
• Birding.
• Excursions to Sossusvlei and Sesriem – It is important to note that only Wilderness Safaris have the advantage of entry into the park through an exclusive gate entrance.
  Sossusvlei is both the name for the area in general as well as; an enormous clay pan flanked by immense sand dunes. Nearby, at the foot of some of these dunes, the skeletons of trees dominate the landscape where once water flowed. This is known as Deadvlei.
• Scenic sundowner excursion.
• A guided nature trail from camp (weather permitting and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide).
  Walking trails focus on becoming immersed in this remote area as well as; its scenic beauty and the fascinating, and surprisingly diverse array of small animals; which make this dry and harsh region their home. The Tsauchab River Trail takes a stroll along the dry riverbed close to the camp.
• Stargazing with a laser pointer (weather permitting and according to the lunar phases).
• Guided electronic-powered fat bike excursions (7 x fat bikes in total; with six for guests plus one for the guide).

Activities may be booked on a private basis in advance and at an additional cost.

Optional Activities at an Additional Cost

Sossusvlei Hot air ballooning is available; weather permitting; except from 15th January to 15th February, 25th December, and 1st January.

Example of a Typical Day at Kulala Desert Lodge:

Morning wake-up and activity times vary according to the seasons, activities on offer, and wildlife sightings.
Early morning wake-up call.
Light breakfast before departing on the morning activity.
Return to camp for a meal and rest period.
Meet for afternoon tea before departing on the activity.
Return to camp – freshen up or meet for drinks; followed by dinner.
Enjoy a nightcap or discussion around the fire before retiring.

Child Policy at Kulala Desert Lodge

Children of all ages are accommodated and are permitted to participate in activities with all other guests.
Children between 6 and 16 years of age must share with at least one adult in the same tent.
The minimum age for walking activities is 13 years.
While there is no age limitation for hot air ballooning, there is a restriction on height. Children need to be a minimum of 1.2 meters to comfortably see over the basket.

The Wilderness Safaris Bush Buddy Program is a fun and educational program for younger guests aged 6 to 12 years. The Bush Buddies are key staff members; who have been trained in childcare and the educational aspects of looking after children in the bush. They either have children of their own or they have had previous experience working with youngsters; making them ideally suited to this position.

The highly motivated Bush Buddies create life-changing journeys for children visiting Kulala Desert Lodge. They tailor-make each experience to suit the children’s ages and individual interests; ensuring that the child goes home feeling inspired to appreciate and conserve their natural worlds. This complimentary service is available on request prior to arrival. One of the Bush Buddies will join the family; where they will be the mentor and friend of the child/ren wherever needed, throughout the day.

Kulala Desert Lodge Accommodation Fully Inclusive Rates

The Fully Inclusive Rates include:
All meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry, and local drinks excluding premium imported brands and champagne. It also includes Namibian VAT & Tourism Levy.

Kulala Desert Lodge Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Rates

The Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast Rates include:
Dinner, bed and breakfast, Namibian VAT & Tourism Levy. Lunch and activities may be added for guests pre-booked on this rate; at an additional cost.
All other extras are to be settled direct.

All National Park entrance fees are excluded.

Kulala Desert Lodge Accommodation Special Offers

Long-stay Discount

A 5% long-stay discount on accommodation in the low season from 1st November to 31st May every year (so excludes 1st June to 31st October).
Valid for bookings of 6 nights or more at all Wilderness camps.
It does not apply to single supplements, private vehicles, flying, transfers, and sightseeing.

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