canadian_robin

We have just learned that our travel agent has booked us into Kulala Wilderness Camp instead of Kulala Desert Lodge as we requested. The reservation was made back in August 2007 and I fear it is too late now to make a change. I am certain Kulala Desert Lodge will be booked, as the reservation is for early August 2008. We have stayed at Kulala Desert Lodge two times previously and loved it. Can anyone give me input on Kulala Wilderness Camp? Thanks! Robin

GrahamC

I take it you mean in Namibia? I've been to both but I'm afraid I can't recall which was which. One is on reasonably flat ground and pretty basic lodgewise, the other is perched up on a hill and a bit more luxurious, does that ring a bell?

The first one had fabulous rooms/cabins where you could sleep on the roof and there were balconies with hammocks and astonishing views. Enormous bathrooms done out like caves. Staff were fantastic. The second was pretty similar, but the lodge area was considerably spiffier.

I loved both but suspect that there might be quite some difference pricewise. The company has a very good reputation so I'm sure you'll have a great time whichever one you stay at. My most vivid memory is the most amazing night sky I've ever seen, anywhere in the world.

Marija

We stayed at Kulala Wilderness Camp last June. You don't have any views of the red sand dunes, though you have great desert views. The accomodations were adequate though not memorable. Heidi, the manager, was excellent, but I don't think she's still there. She was planning her wedding and departure when we were there. Since I've never stayed at the Desert Lodge I can't compare the two but we have no complaints about our stay in Wilderness Camp.

canadian_robin

Thank you both! Graham - are you thinking of Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp (SWC) rather than Kulala Wilderness Camp (KWC)? Your description (hammocks etc)sounds a bit luxurious for KWC and more like SWC, from what I've read!

ivee

We were in Sossusvlei Wilderness camp, the bungalows in the middle of nowhere are just amazing, if it is Sossusvlei you are going to ask for bungalow 1, with the most impressive view you have ever seen!

Jed

This is from my TR:

"After a short drive, we get to Kulala Wilderness Camp, with 10 rooms overlooking a huge flat plain with small scrub and only a few trees. We somewhat disappointed with first sight of the camp because the units were unattractive. Arline said they looked like cockroaches. They were on stilts, with a wooden floor, canvas sides, and thatched rook. The bedroom area was 20 ft X 14 Ft, plus a small porch and bathroom area. It was only 7 years old, but it already looked shabby. The furniture looked like it came from the Salvation Army. The floor fan was usable but falling apart. There was no ceiling fan. The bathroom was dark, hot, and the shower area was almost primitive. In the hot afternoon, when we wanted to cool off with a shower, the choice of water temps was either very hot or yeoooooow. When you sat on the toilet, you looked through a full window which did not have a curtain. Most interesting. The units faced west, so in the afternoon you could not sit on the porch."

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35086423

canadian_robin

Thanks Jed! I had seen your post, which is the reason for my concern. Robin

GrahamC

YOU could be right re SWC judging by the other comments. All I can say is, it was a flying visit and they all sound kind of similar. Still, it's the surroundings that make the trip, not the accommodation.

ivee

I do not completely agree with this I don't think they are all more or less the same and especially in the desert a lodge with amazing views may add to the pleasure of the stay.
I am not in the travel business or so but am just enthousiast about Sossusvlei Wilderness camp. Already when you arrive in the main area the view is stunning. And if you are so lucky to be in N°1 it is just great. I heard that Kulala was indeed less nice, perhaps you are still able to change you never know

PredatorBiologist

Unfortunately I cannot add anything on the two Kulala camps/lodges but I agree with Ivee that SWC is a spectacular setting on the ridge top with enormous views, and looking down as springbok come to the flood lit waterhole it is outstanding too. I really enjoyed that lodge, plus they had an amazing outdoor braais under the stars.

canadian_robin

We are back from Namibia and absolutely loved Kulala Wilderness Camp - we would not hesitate to recommend it. We much prefered over Kulala Desert Lodge, which we have stayed at twice. Here is the link to my trip report (photos included) that will give a complete description of our visit to Kulala Wilderness Camp. Robin

Starts middle of page 46:

http://bert-and-bin.smugmug.com/gall...61053054_KcDbR

bellhouse

Graham - you were thinking of Little Kulala - a wonderful place!