Kwessi Dunes Lodge blends old-world charm with modern African elements in a uniquely quirky and comfortable way. Each of the ten chalets combines high thatched roofs and vintage maps with swinging hammocks and striped canvas. Situated in the striking desert landscape of the NamibRand National Reserve, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Sossusvlei, the lodge offers a variety of ways to explore its vast surroundings – whether by hot-air balloon, quad bike, foot, horseback, or classic safari vehicle.
Nestled deep within NamibRand, Kwessi Dunes focuses not on big-game hunting but on appreciating the unconventional beauty of the desert plains, jagged mountains, and red dunes. The harsh climate has shaped a fascinating array of wildlife, from bat-eared foxes to antelope, African wildcats, and even elusive leopards and cheetahs, all uniquely adapted to survive in this unforgiving environment.
The lodge’s star attraction is its unrivaled stargazing experience. NamibRand is Africa’s only Dark Sky Reserve, renowned for its exceptionally clear, light-pollution-free night skies. Guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Milky Way—a spectacle found in only a few other places in the world. Each chalet boasts its own stargazer room, allowing guests to fall asleep under the mesmerizing canopy of stars.
Twin Room
Kwessi Dunes Lodge features ten thatch-and-canvas chalets that fuse old-world African charm with modern design, all with a quirky twist. Vintage four-poster beds and old maps mix with striped canvas and swinging hammocks. High thatched ceilings and air conditioning keep the rooms cool during scorching days and warm on chilly nights. The chalets come with both indoor and outdoor showers, letting you rinse off under the thatch or soak in the open air. The shaded veranda is perfect for relaxing while taking in the stunning desert landscape.
The highlight of each chalet is the separate ‘stargazer’ room at the back, where you can enjoy an incredible night of stargazing before drifting off to sleep in your four-poster bed. As the only Dark Sky Reserve in Africa, NamibRand offers some of the clearest, least light-polluted skies in the world, making it an exceptional spot for a night under the stars.
Perched on a raised wooden deck and crowned with a high thatched roof, Kwessi Dunes’ main building blends traditional African elements to create an authentic safari atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors offer sweeping views of the stunning NamibRand landscape, folding open to seamlessly connect the indoors with nature. This cool, comfortable space is perfect for socializing with fellow guests or unwinding after a day of game drives. Beat the desert heat with a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, which overlooks a busy waterhole frequented by oryx and zebra. As the evening chill sets in, enjoy a drink from the well-stocked bar, cozy up on the plush sofa with a book from the library, or gather around the fire pit to swap stories beneath the stars.
The dining area can be found in the main lodge, offering the option to eat inside or out on the patio – perfect for a dinner under a canopy of stars. The chefs at Kwessi Dunes Lodge have a reputation for delicious, wholesome meals, and are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palettes. Any dietary requirements or allergies can be catered for when prior notice is provided.
