Nestled on the banks of the Otjovasandu River in the country’s north-western parts, Hobatere Lodge promises uniquely Namibian encounters. A private airstrip makes access even easier for guests with little time to spare for long distance driving. Hobatere, due to its location on the western side of Etosha National Park, is known as ‘little Etosha’. Apart from its abundance of game species it is a paradise for birdwatchers, too.
A fire destroyed the lodge in 2011. It was rebuilt, also thanks to funds provided by the Millennium Challenge Account, and opened its doors again in June 2015. Journeys Namibia was awarded the contract to manage the lodge, which is 100% owned by the local ≠Khoadi //Hoas Conservancy.
The ≠Khoadi //Hoas Conservancy stands proudly as an international case study of how conservation efforts can be successful and sustainable in the long run. By visiting this part of the world and enjoying all it has to offer, you are contributing to the long-term sustainability of the area, its animals and its people.
The main area and surrounding chalets are covered with thatched roofs, cooling the air with the fragrant scents of the African savannah.
Six cosy chalets (Rondawels) as well as six comfortable, adjoining rooms (bungalows) ensure a pleasant stay. The en-suite bathrooms are equipped with a shower, toilet and washbasin plus complementary toiletries. Your ‘second home in the wild’ is furnished with a desk and a coffee and tea station, and it sports a deck at the front. Hobatere Lodge is powered entirely by solar panels. Therefore the rooms have no sockets for electrical kettles. Instead, hot water flasks are provided for guests to enjoy tea or coffee with home-made biscuits in the comfort of their rooms.
At Hobatere Lodge you will become immersed in the untamed wilds of Damaraland. The whole area is a paradise for nature lovers, and the proximity of the waterhole ensures exceptionally intimate experiences with the wild creatures that frequent it.
Sip on a refreshing drink lounging on the veranda while just a breath away a variety of antelopes, including elands, as well as giraffes, Hartmann’s zebras and occasionally elephants and big cats such as lions quench their thirst.
Embark on an early morning game drive that will take you on an exploration through the bush and savannah. Trained guides will help you spot a rich variety of animals, from elephant to Hartmann’s zebra. Night drives offer a unique opportunity to encounter nocturnal animals like the bat-eared fox, aardwolf and genet. Join one of our bush dinners at our recently built boma to experience the evening sounds of nature and a delicious barbeque under the stars.
The lodge is close to several key attractions, among them the less explored western part of Etosha National Park, Damaraland and Opuwo. Its strategic location makes it perfect as a stop-over or the base camp of your journey.
For those who prefer a ride on an open 4x4 vehicle instead of driving themselves, the lodge offers guided half-day excursions into Etosha National Park. The excursion ends with a picnic lunch at the famous Olifantsrus campsite, between Okaukuejo and Dolomite Camp, before heading back to the lodge. The many waterholes in the area are excellent for game viewing.
Spend a night in splendid isolation, feel the thrill of being enveloped by the magic of nature, listen to the little sounds of nocturnal animals and marvel at the bright stars of the African night sky and the magnificence of the Milky Way.
Tree house guests have front-row seats in the privacy of the balcony to watch one of those memorable sunsets over the water hole in front of their lofty accommodation.
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