5 Best Hotels in Namibia

Ostriches and cows rub unlikely shoulders at this intimate, historic guesthouse at a farm on the northern side of the Naukluft Mountains, near the tiny town of Solitaire. It was established in 1898 as an outpost of the German Imperial Stud Farm at Nauchas. Today it's an ideal base for exploring the area, whether on foot or by 4x4—although it's a daylong trip (and an expensive one) to Sossusvlei and back. With long hikes and short strolls around the farm, the area is ideal for hikers and very popular with German tourists. There are seven en suite rooms with private verandas, and the English-and-German-speaking hosts will escort you on game drives, to nearby San paintings, or to the Naukluft plateau. You'll dine well on home-cooked food, and there's a surprisingly good wine selection. Rates include breakfast and dinner.

Walking into Cornerstone one is struck by the lovely manicured garden and the pleasantly homey ambience. Rooms are not huge but are comfortable and have free Wi-Fi and small personal patios. The breakfast here is famously tasty, and the owners are incredibly helpful and friendly. Within walking distance from most of Swakop's main attractions, this place is very popular and often full. However, if you find this to be the case, inquire about the three self-catering apartments, also owned by the management.

Resembling children's building blocks set down by a giant hand in the middle of nowhere, this earth-toned lodge sits in the midst of a wide plain of desert, backed by gorgeous granite hills. Awesome views go with the territory. You can choose to sit on your private veranda and watch the fiery desert sunset, sip a sundowner by the pool, or enjoy a meal in the open-air or indoor restaurant. The lodge will arrange outings and activities for you—don't miss out on an easy walk in the world's oldest desert.

Located about a 10-minute drive north of the city center, this elegant guesthouse is incredibly popular for its stylish simplicity and great service. The aesthetic is minimalist chic, with polished concrete floors and a color scheme of sage and olive with well-placed details like beautiful handmade tiles and Moroccan-style lanterns. Attention to detail and thoughtful treats for guests are a specialty here (e.g., honeymooners can expect bubbly and flower petals). Families are also welcome; the humongous and super luxurious executive suite is an absolute stunner.

From this delightful lodge, where personal attention and friendly service are outstanding (the lodge gets many repeat visitors), you can drive yourself to Sesriem and Sossusvlei (90 km/56 miles to the gate) or to Naukluft. The comfortable and unpretentious lodge has its own canyon—popular with geologists and archeologists—hiking trails, and perennial springs. All rooms have views of the swimming pool and bush beyond, and are tastefully furnished, making them a welcome refuge from the hot days.