Ondudu Safari Lodge

I really enjoyed the outdoor bathroom, and dinner on the terrace with the view was lovely. It's a wonderful lodge in a very quiet location, and the team take great care to protect your peace and quiet. We didn't get a tent high up on the mountain, so I'd suggest asking for one with a view. The sunset walk was very easy, and it's a shame guests aren't allowed to do it on their own. With a guide, the price felt too high.

The views here are something you don't get to see every day, and the lodge itself is beautiful. The food was amazing, the staff were super kind, and the WiFi worked really well even in the tents. It was also a welcome change of scenery after two weeks in the desert. To be completely honest, I wasn't looking forward to the stay at first because I didn't know what to expect. But it ended up being one of our best experiences in Namibia, a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place. If you're visiting in winter, bring warm clothes because the bathroom is outside. We can't wait to come back sometime.

We'd been looking forward to Ondudu Safari Lodge, especially as the final stop on our trip and by far the most expensive accommodation we booked. Some nights cost twice as much as other lodges from that week, so we expected a lot. The location is beautiful and we were greeted warmly, but the stay didn't live up to those hopes. In the restaurant we felt watched and uncomfortable. Quite a few staff were standing around, leaning on tables, hands in jacket pockets, chatting, and often looking straight at us. The food was good, but not what we'd expect at this price. At times the kitchen ventilation seemed not to work properly, so we sat amid the smell and smoke. We greeted the owner's family but didn't feel much warmth or hospitality, and there was no real welcome or engagement. The rooms and pool area were fine but nothing special for what we paid. The lodge feels short on strong leadership and the personal warmth that makes a stay memorable. We regret that we wouldn't return in these circumstances. It's a beautiful place with potential, but as it is now, it missed our expectations.

The 9.8 km early-morning Pangolin Trail was a fantastic way to hike and discover nature at a slower pace. Guided outings were excellent, with the chance to explore on foot, a refreshing change from the usual game drives. The lodge sits in beautiful natural surroundings, and the tented rooms are roomy and very comfortable. The food was absolutely delicious.