Omaanda (Zannier Hotels)

Inspired by the traditional Owambo architecture, Omaanda is the only true five-star property within the vicinity of Windhoek and is a conservation success in and of itself. Situated on 22,000 acres of private reserve, this 15-room property is made of natural materials, featuring gray and beige tones throughout that blend with the landscape.

Offering guests tranquility and serenity, Omaanda makes for an ideal retreat for the first or last night of a Namibia itinerary. While the lodge feels authentically Namibian, Arnaud Zannier’s style is quite distinctive, reminiscent of Phum Baitang, one of our favorite properties located just outside of Siem Reap. Upon arrival, you’re immediately invited by a welcoming open-air lounge (and in the winter months, there’s a fireplace guests can cozy up next to). The lobby opens to a gorgeous infinity pool and self-serve gin bar.

Guest suites are spacious and feel organic, with clay walls and thatched roofs, featuring large bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and small outdoor sitting areas overlooking the reserve. Request a room looking out over the watering hole, frequented by giraffes, zebras and oryx. A small spa is tucked away near the pool for guests to enjoy treatments after coming off of, or in preparation for, a long flight. Omaanda is also adding a small gym, a rarity for Namibian lodges and camps.

The reserve Omaanda is on is home to a number of safari animals, all as part of a rehabilitation program to transfer wildlife from other parts of the country(especially from areas where the animals are in danger—or are causing danger to local communities). Trackers and researchers ensure the animals’ safety while monitoring and studying them, which is particularly important in a reserve with such close proximity to surrounding villages and the city of Windhoek. For this reason, Omaanda partners with Na’ankuse, an organization working with farmers on how to properly deal with big game animals without killing them. Morning and evening conservation drives educate guests about the property’s conservation efforts. Also on offer: safari-esque activities like breakfast with meerkats or rhino tracking.

It’s worth noting that while these nature focused activities are possible from Omaanda, given the property’s location you will not feel as remote, nor the experiences as wild, as at other top lodges in the country.

Any traveler in need of a place to stay in the Windhoek area on the front or back end of a Namibia itinerary.