Okahirongo, luxury and more in the heart of Kaokoveld

The average rainfall in the Purros area is barely some 20 mm per annum whislt the dusty plains are assuaged only by the ephemeral Hoarusib River and its unlikely swathe of lush greenery, and the outlying Epako mountains dominant and unforgiving; yet this area, the home of Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, is indescribably captivating, magnificent in its setting of true wilderness. There can be few landscapes anywhere on the entire planet that will so readily clutch your soul, burn into your memory and awaken your senses so sharply. Okahirongo sits proudly in their very midst.

Meanwhile, journeying to this magnificent new Lodge, only opened in August 2006, is a wonderful adventure in itself; there are basically two modes of transport for aspiring guests. Firstly, you can fly in by chartered light aircraft, on a flight, for example, of a little over two hours from Windhoek over some of Namibia's finest and most dramatic landscapes. Secondly, why not drive there (in a four wheel drive vehicle) through equally mesmerising scenery? You could just manage in one very full day's driving, but why not break your journey with an overnight or two at the Twyfelfontein World Heritage Site and view the extraordinary collection of Bushmen (San) rock art and engravings. Doro Nawas Lodge would make an ideal first night destination. But the most exciting part of either journey is surely arriving in Purros, and discovering Okahirongo Elephant Lodge.
From its relatively high vantage point, the lodge itself stands sentinel over the vast plains surrounding Purros, with clear sight of those neighbouring mountains guarding this desert tract and proudly presents visitors with really excellent accommodation. There are 7 dwelling places, one might call them cottages or luxury chalets, including one particularly suitable for honeymooners and also an extensive and exclusive Presidential Suite offering two double bedrooms and a large lounge. 18 beds in all, whilst there are 2 rooms available to house accompanying pilots and / or guides. Each of the cottages, all built from local stone, has its own unique style and ambience; but all share sumptuous drapes, linens and cool mixes of beige and ochre colours that blend in harmoniously with their raw desert surroundings; yet such sophistication is tempered and enhanced by an eclectic mix of ethnic, local furnishings, crafts and sculptures in both the cottages and the main lodge buildings, producing a warm and wonderful African vibe. Each cottage bathroom boasts a huge tub with equally grand view, his 'n hers basins and shower facilities both inside and outside. In addition, there is a private gazebo complete with enormous sun bed for relaxing during the day, or sleeping under the stars at night. The central complex contains no less than two lounges, two dining areas, a library and a typical African boma, which is firelit at night should guests choose to dine al-fresco; all are equally superbly and caringly furnished. There is a good sized pool, central in the terrace, a magnet for all on those warm desert days!Activities, apart from chilling poolside, include twice daily scenic and game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, night drives, guided hiking trails in the Hoarusib River valley, bird watching, and visits to an authentic and unspoilt indigenous Himba village. Interesting perhaps to visit the salt water springs and rock formations at nearby Ogams, to drive to the Okongwe where Desert Rhino are moving back after a 30 year absence, or to meander along the Hoarusib - weather conditions and water permitting - where you'll spot Oryx, Springbok and maybe big cats such as Cheetah, Leopard and possibly even Lion! All in a magical oasis-like environment of flourishing green vegetation, an extraordinary contrast to the barren and burnt landscapes all around.

Thus it is that Okahirongo provides visitors with an experience they will surely never forget; to be cosseted in such luxury, with service and cuisine to match and yet be central to such awesome wilderness and surroundings seriously sears the senses. Do not miss your opportunity!

Neil Digby-ClarkeFACT FILEDirections: By road: Head for Sesfontein, situated on the C40 gravel road, from either Kamanjab, Khorixas or Opuwo. Then continue from Sesfontein on the district road D3707 to Purros, some 100 km distant. This is definitive 4x4 territory, for the D3707 is often in poor condition. To first reach Sesfontein, you can travel via Palmwag; you can drive there from Kamanjab on the C40 or from Khorixas on the C39. The road from Palmwag to Sesfontein is the C43 and the distance is also 100 km. Diesel is normally available at both Palmwag and Sesfontein as well as the on the C40, but best to check first.
By air: The Lodge utilises the airstrip suitable for light aircraft at Purros. GPS Co-ordinates are S 018 45' 18.8" E 012 56' 47.4". The lodge will transfer all guests from the airstrip to the lodge.

Activities: Scenic and game drives in open sided 4x4 vehicles; night drives, guided hiking trails; bird watching; visits to local Himba village, or simply unwinding poolside.

Contact details: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge - Purros, Namibia
Tel: +264 (0)65 685018
Fax: +264 (0)65 685019
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.okahirongolodge.com