The lodge is built around a large pool and the ample greenery of the garden provides a refreshing contrast to the wild and desolate Kalahari that stretches for miles in all directions. The 25 en suite rooms have tiled floors, basic amenities, crisp white bedding, a comfortable bed and some natty African prints.
It's not luxury, but it certainly isn't camping (unless of course you 're booked in at the campsite (they have these too) and if you're looking for a quiet respite and some downtime along the journey, then this laid-back, relaxed and down-to-earth lodge is a suitable choice with good food and warm hospitality.
The main lodge has a restaurant, a poolside bar, a TV room and a cosy lounge with a fireplace, a welcome feature since winters get mighty chilly out here in the desert. Go for a walk in the red dunes by day and watch a brilliant night sky come alive after dark. That's the charm of the Kalahari Desert and you can experience both in heaps here plus get a good night's rest before your journey continues again.
Game drives on the Auob Reserve - either two or three hours long. Explore the Kalahari and the wildlife from open game viewing vehicles. A great idea as a sundowner drive before dinner.
Hiking takes you to explore the breathtaking landscape of the desert on foot. There are three hiking trails for all skill levels, either guided or unguided depending what you prefer. If you opt for a guided option, your guide will introduce and explain the desert-adapted flora and fauna of the surrounds. Choose from the 6km or 8km trail or a half-day game-spotting hike.
Dinner on the dunes is a real treat if you wish to dine beneath the star-studded sky that we mentioned above. A three-course meal beneath a billion stars sounds like a must-do if you are in these parts.
Auob Country Lodge is set in a private reserve of 8,000 hectares where the iconic red dunes of the Kalahari clash with the white calcareous rocks of the valley formed by the Auob River. The reserve features several hardy species of antelope, many birds and the acacia, which thrives in these conditions, is the leaf of choice for the giraffe.
In the breeding camp adjacent to the campsites, there is also an opportunity to see springbok, lechwe and nyala antelope. Just ask at reception about the possibility of this.
"We loved our experience with NTS"
We loved Namibia and its unique landscapes and kind people. It was certainly an adventure and a privilege to get to spend time there.
"We can't wait to return"
I can't thank you enough for helping to put together this trip. It exceeded all our expectations and we fell in love with your country.
"We had a wonderful time in Namibia"
All in all we had a wonderful time and appreciate the effort made to ensure all aspects of our tour ran smoothly with prompt email support where needed.
"What a wonderful journey we had in beautiful and friendly Namibia!"
Namibia has stolen our travel-heart and you can consider us as new ambassadors of this spectacular country.