Grootberg Lodge

Perched on the rim of the Etendeka Plateau, the Grootberg Lodge stands sentinel over the Klip River Valley.12 000 hectares have been set aside by the #Khoadi//Hoas community for conservation and tourism and it is through this pristine wilderness that you meander either on foot or by car to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Grootberg Lodge is a landmark in Namibia for the tourism industry as it is the first middle-market establishment in the country that is 100% owned by the conservancy. For travelers making the journey between Etosha and Swakopmund, this lodge provides the ideal midway stopover, whilst allowing guests to experience the true wilderness that is Damaraland.

The staff are all employed from the community and well trained in their various duties. Guests are hosted in genuine local hospitality complimented by excellent food prepared by the well trained kitchen staff. The waitresses and barman are at the beckon-call of each guest, always ready to serve and assist where needed.

Grootberg Lodge boasts 14 twin and 2 family rock and thatch chalets that gaze out over the Klip River Valley where Black Eagles are a regular sight — hunting just below your private deck.

Two family units provide enough space for parents and two children to share comfortably. Each room has a shower, toilet and washbasin complimented with the necessary amenities. The chalets each have a writing desk, bedside lamps and a small deck in front of the unit. A coffee and tea station are also provided with hot water flasks and refills available at main area.

Elephant tracking at Grootberg Lodge has become one of the most popular lodge activities. Guests set out in the early morning (07:30) with a guide and tracker to the surrounding farms in search of elusive desert elephant. Since the elephants roam free in the conservancy, sightings cannot always be guaranteed but the experience always gives one the opportunity to learn and appreciate more about the lifestyle of the local people. Lunch is provided in the shade of a tree in the remote wilderness of Damaraland.

For a feel of Africa under foot, set out on a guided walking safari after a scrumptious breakfast on the veranda of the restaurant. Guests who prefer an early start to the day will depart at around 7.30am for a 3 hour walk on top of the plateau. Grootberg Lodge’s knowledgeable guides will help to spot the various shy inhabitants of the plateau. Other highlights of the walk include local flora, the amazing rock formations of the Etendeka Mountains.

Even those who prefer to avoid the morning rush by catching a few more hours of sleep will agree that there are things worth getting up for, and rhino tracking is one such an activity. The experience is a mixture of 4×4 game drive and setting off on foot, with the possibility of up to three hours” walking. Refreshments are served near springs over the lunch hour.

Fora rare chance to immerse yourself in the local life, set out on a Himba village excursion. Damaraland and the Kaokoveld as well as southern parts or Angola are home to the Himba, one of the last truly traditional tribes on the planet. These friendly people are closely related to the Herero and lead a semi-nomadic life as herdsmen, breeding mainly cattle and goats. The community living among the majestic Makalani palms at Palmfontein and invites visitors to learn more about their proud and ancient lifestyle and traditions. Visitors will be able to see their cone-shaped homestead made from palm leaves, mud and cattle dung and learn more about their unique customs and techniques. Due to the nomadic lifestyle of the Himba, the trip is not offered all year round.

For a relaxing day of takingin the sights and wildlife, join a scenic drives down the Klip River. The springs of the scenic, Klip River Valley is the lifeblood that draws numbers animals large and small to drink and forage. Springbok, zebra, kudu and oryx are almost always present while elephants, lion and black rhinos as well as shy klipspringers are often spotted. The morning drive starts after breakfast and takes between 3-4 hours, the afternoon drive is shorter, leaving after tea and coffee at the lodge for a 2-3 hour drive.