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Little Kulala

Our rating

9/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Breath-taking location close to Sossusvlei
- Exclusive, luxurious facilities
- Hot air balloon rides
- Wilderness Safari Portfolio

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Overview

The sumptuous desert retreat of Little Kulala is situated in the private 27,000 hectare Kulala Wilderness Reserve, just south of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The lodge sits in the dry Auab riverbed amidst breath-taking scenery; the great Namib dune sea rises on one side, falling away to the stark beauty of the desert on the other. The dramatic and remote location allows guests to experience an abundance of desert wildlife, including springbok, ostrich, and oryx, with nightfall bringing opportunities to see hyena, bat-eared fox, and aardwolf.

The lodge’s architecture is designed to echo the minimalism of the surrounding desert. Inside the thatch-topped adobe buildings, the decor is tasteful and there is plenty of natural light. The lounge and dining areas are spacious and stylish, with plush furnishings. The main lodge also includes a library, craft boutique, bar, and wine cellar, with the communal veranda offering al fresco fine dining looking out across the stunning landscape. Friendly and attentive staff are always on hand.

The bedrooms consist of 11 climate-controlled, thatched “kulalas,” which in the local Oshiwambo language means 'to sleep.' There are 7 well-appointed twin bedded units and three double units. The exposed stonework and attractive wooden features create a simple yet sophisticated feel, and each room opens out onto a private veranda overlooking the expansive wilderness, complete with plunge pool, outdoor shower, and, on the upper deck, a sky-bed where guests can sleep beneath the brilliant stars.

The lodge's proximity and private access to the incredible Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei in part explain the hefty price-tag. Pre-dawn excursions to these white clay and salt pans walled by immense red dunes provide awesome photography opportunities, and are not to be missed. To the north lies the Sesriem canyon, boasting amazing views from the top, and geologically fascinating walks at the bottom. Other activities from the lodge include eco-sensitive quad biking and horse riding safaris, along with early-morning balloon safaris with breath-taking vistas of the area and elevated views of the desert wildlife. Note that balloon rides are subject to additional cost, and are unavailable mid-January to mid-February. Expert guides offer day time and early evening nature drives through the reserve, whilst extensive hiking trails allow guests to explore the surrounding area on foot. The secluded location is perfect for sundowners and impressive stargazing, and scorpion night walks are also available.

Although children over the age of 8 are welcome, the lodge is not specifically geared to the entertainment of youngsters, with the core of activities focussing on exploring stunning landscapes and natural wonders. There is one family kulala which can accommodate four guests in two en-suite bedrooms separated by a deck. A limited number of triple rooms are also available. Note that the lodge and pool are unfenced, and though rarely visited by wildlife, parental supervision is essential at all times.

Little Kulala is upmarket and extremely comfortable, with wonderful staff. The lodge’s location close to key southern-Namibian sights makes for a high price tag, but it’s worth pulling out all the stops to enjoy the splendid scenery and superb opportunities for desert exploration afforded by this delightful property.

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What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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