The name ‘Star Dune’ promises something truly spectacular, as does the fact that the eco-friendly Desert Lodge in which the suite is located features in the Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 as one of the best resorts in Africa. And this exceptional accommodation delivers on so many levels.

The scenery is something you have to see to believe, with some comparing the red clay surroundings to that of the surface of the planet Mars (see, we weren’t exaggerating with the out of this world reference). There’s no doubting that the views of dunes, plains and rocky areas all benefit from the exceptional quality of light in this area – not something that photos can really do justice – you need to come here to experience it for yourself.

Uniqueness

It’s all located in the northern reaches of the NamibRand Nature Reserve which is only accessible to lodge guests.

This is the only private reserve in the Sossusvlei area where you can see Namibia’s iconic star dunes. Helicopter and hot air balloon rides can be arranged to give you a bird’s eye view of the spectacle, and sightings of zebra, springbok, ostrich, hyena and wildcat are common in the area. Less common, but not out of the question are sightings of wild leopard and baboon.

And don’t go thinking there’s not much to see when the sun goes down. There’s plenty, especially from the observatory where you can marvel at the constellations through the state-of-the-art Celestron telescope.

The suite

Amid the beautiful landscape and under the star-filled sky is the Star Dune suite, precisely 267 square meters of luxuriousness. It’s actually two suites linked by a covered walkway and features a private lounge and dining area. Meals can be served to you in the suite, or you can join other the guests who’ve booked one of the 12 stone and glass suites at Desert Lodge in the main dining area.

Both bedrooms in the Star Dune feature retractable skylights above the beds, so you can lie back and look up at the stars, then wake up refreshed and revitalised, ready to take a dip in your private lap pool set in your own outdoor terrace.

Groups of friends and families will love this exclusive suite, with the lodge team laying on all kinds of activities to keep even the most demanding of children happy. But whoever you stay here with, a personal butler will be on hand to ensure you can file your Star Dune Suite experience under ‘truly memorable’. Expect to find a minibar, a cookie jar (refilled daily) and, get this, your own pair of Swarovski binoculars through which you can get a closer look at your surroundings.

Shared experiences

Staying in this suite gives you access to the shared main area at Desert Lodge, and it’s a mightily impressive place. Glass walls fold away to open up the views of your surroundings from here, allowing uninterrupted views of the desert from the bar or lounge area, even from the rim flow swimming pool. Despite lacking the same kind of views, the walk-in wine cellar still always seems to prove popular with guests for some reason.

A wellness centre, gym and regular guided hikes into the dunes ensure you can stay in shape while on your luxurious break, and there are opportunities for stargazing, which you can choose to do in the company of a professional astronomer on most nights.