Damara Mopane Lodge

Located deep in the Damaraland region, Damara Mopane Lodge is reminiscent of an African village with its semi-circle of 55 wattle-and-daub chalets connected by footpaths. This friendly lodge is splashed in fresh colours and set in pretty gardens surrounding a large swimming pool, amid mopane woodlands on the open plains. It's ideal for exploring the rock art of Twyfelfontein, the petrified forest and the Vingerklip rock formation. It is also a popular layover on journeys between Etosha National Park to the north-east and coastal Swakopmund in Namibia's south-west.

At Damara Mopane Lodge

Other than the warm service, the most praised feature of Damara Mopane is its lovely setting, especially the charming herb, vegetable and flower gardens at each cottage-style chalet. These small gardens, decorated with quirky scarecrows, supply the lodge kitchen with fresh ingredients and create a lovely ambiance. Well-kept green lawns and shady mopane trees add to the charm of the grounds, which are a special part of the Damara Mopane experience.

Their 55 chalets have en-suite bathrooms and shaded patio areas for enjoying the garden setting. The bungalows are quaint and spacious inside, sporting fresh colours and simple furnishings. Each of the units is equipped with air-conditioning and heating; tea- and coffee-making facilities, an in-room safe and comfy beds. The rooms are fresh and tidy and the lodge is frequently complimented on its cleanliness and diligent maintenance.

The spacious main buildings open out onto the leafy gardens, providing outdoor dining and entertainment areas on deep verandahs. One of Damara Mopane's most appealing attributes is its cuisine, complemented by an excellent wine list. It has been said that they make the best toasted Dagwoods to be had and the menu also features various game dishes.

Things to Do and Places to See

The southern part of Kunene is famous for its desert-adapted elephants, spectacular sandstone rock formations, ancient San rock engravings and petrified trees. One of the most remarkable things about this arid part of Namibia is the free-roaming wildlife found outside of designated protected areas – a rare phenomenon in Southern Africa. From the lodge you can embark on nature drives in search of these renowned elephants, often seen wandering in the striking wilderness. Black rhino, zebra, giraffe and various antelope species are also spotted on drives here. Self-guided hikes and walks are another good way to discover this wild region.

Top attractions close to the lodge include the ancient petrified forest and the impressive Vingerklip rock formation, as well as the World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein, which hosts Africa's largest collection of Stone Age rock art and engravings. At Damara Mopane itself there is a short walk up to a viewing platform where you can soak up the beautiful views out over the surrounding mopane woodlands. Watching the sun set with sundowners at the viewing deck is a favourite highlight when staying at the lodge.

Getting There

Damara Mopane Lodge is situated about 20km east of Khorixas in the rugged Kunene Region, which now incorporates the former Kaokoland and Damaraland areas. Located on the C39 road, you can reach the lodge by driving north-east from Swakopmund or south-west from Etosha National Park. Fly-in and transfer options are also available.

Our Take on Damara Mopane

Damara Mopane Lodge maintains high standards and the customer service is consistently rated as excellent. The lovely gardens, great food and convenient location make it a good choice for exploring this fascinating corner of Namibia.