There are tons of options for luxury lodges in Namibia, but only one that makes you feel like you washed ashore on a remote desert island. Shipwreck Lodge Namibia sits on the country’s remote Skeleton Coast. Here you’ll find ten cabins on the sand dunes looking like something out of a movie, all washed up on shore. In this article, we break down why this lodge is unlike anywhere else on the entire continent, how to plan your stay, and what to expect once you’re there (including how remote “remote” actually is).
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Why We Love Shipwreck Lodge Namibia
The design of Shipwreck Lodge isn’t just a fun theme. It’s based in history. The Skeleton Coast earned its name from ships wrecking along its shore for hundreds of years. These cabins pay homage to that, but offer a luxurious experience that the real shipwrecks did not! Despite the weathered exterior meant to look like a real wreck, the inside is cozy and warm. And there are only ten cabins in total, making this a quiet and remote getaway that few get to experience. Plus, a stay here involves some fun and wild activities, which we’ll get into shortly.
How to Get to Shipwreck Lodge
What makes Shipwreck Lodge feel like a real oasis is how remote it is. You can fly in on a charter plane, take a guided 4×4 transfer (our favorite option), or self-drive, which we don’t recommend based on the gravelly roads.
Shipwreck Lodge Cabins
All of the cabins face the Atlantic Ocean, giving you a sense of instant relaxation when you look out your window.
Eight of the cabins are twin or double chalets, with their own private bathrooms and decks. And each is solar powered. They’re not the most spacious rooms in the world, but they won’t leave you feeling cramped.
If you do want more room or are traveling with kids, two of the units are family cabins with extra beds.
How to Stay Comfortable in the Desert
The weather here shifts often throughout the day, so we recommend packing layers. Mornings can be foggy and cold, especially since you’re so close to the water. But it warms up fairly quickly, so you won’t want to be trapped in any warm, bulky clothing. Pack something warm for early drives and something light to wear underneath for the afternoon, and you’ll be all set.
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Booking Tips
When to Stay at Shipwreck Lodge
There’s no bad time to stay at Shipwreck Lodge, but we think a stay from May to October brings the best weather. It’s a bit cooler and drier during this window. And it’s one of the better times for wildlife viewing.
Booking Shipwreck Lodge in Advance
There are only ten cabins on this property, so it books up fast, especially in peak season. We recommend locking in your dates several months out if you can. This is also helpful when planning out your Namibia itinerary, given Shipwreck Lodge is a bit further out and will need some advanced planning.
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We also recommend planning your excursions to Möwe Bay early, since spots can fill up fast. This is the spot where you can see hundreds of seals, which we think is totally worth going to see.
Shipwreck Lodge Price
This isn’t a budget stay due to the all-inclusive nature of it. Rates are fully inclusive of meals, drinks, and guided activities, and shift significantly by season, with peak months (July–August) costing the most. We think it’s worth it if you have enough time on your Namibia itinerary to get here and stay for a few days. Not having to think about what you’re going to eat or how to plan excursions is well worth the price.
How Long to Stay
We recommend staying for two to three nights at Shipwreck Lodge. There’s so much to do nearby that you’d be rushing through activities or not making the most of your stay otherwise.
Things to Do at Shipwreck Lodge
There is an activity for everyone at Shipwreck Lodge. Are you an adventurer who loves a good thrill? Try sandboarding or a quad bike tour. Or maybe you’re an animal lover who craves an unusual safari experience? You can go on a guided drive to see elephants, lions, and hyenas. Or if you want to sit and stare at the ocean from the comfort of your private deck, that’s perfectly acceptable too!
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Is Shipwreck Lodge Worth It?
While this isn’t the easiest to reach unique stay we’ve recommended, the idea of feeling miles away from the rest of the world without sacrificing comfort is worth the trek. Truly, the remoteness is the selling point, even if it’s not for everyone.
It’s also important to note that you will be eating amazing food during your stay here. The Shipwreck Lodge restaurant is gorgeous, and the food here really is a highlight of people’s stay.
Shipwreck Lodge FAQs
Is Shipwreck Lodge part of a bigger safari network? Yes, Shipwreck Lodge is operated by Natural Selection, which runs other lodges across southern Africa.
Do all of the cabins have ocean views? Yes, every cabin faces the Atlantic, though your vantage point may vary slightly depending on which one you book.
Is Shipwreck Lodge good for families? It can be, especially if you opt to stay in one of the two family cabins. But it’s better suited for older kids who can handle long drives and appreciate the remote setting.
What wildlife will you see at Shipwreck Lodge? While sightings can never be guaranteed, you’ll likely spot elephants, hyenas, seals, and possibly lions.
Do you need to be an experienced traveler to stay here? Not necessarily, but you should be comfortable with remote, off-the-grid travel. We recommend making a packing list since there won’t be stores easily accessible.
Shipwreck Lodge Namibia truly is a magical place, and we would stay here again and again.
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