You’d think that’s enough ‘cool’ for a set of villas to have, but this place has it on tap (preferably from its water-saving rain showers).
These villas have been built 12 metres off the ground to give you magnificent, uninterrupted views of the Brandberg (Namibia’s highest mountain) and Doros Crater. Which you can see from everywhere: the bedroom, desk, bathroom, you name it.
If that’s not enough nature for you, you can even roll your king-size bed onto your private deck for a night under Namibia’s stars. Y’know, just in case you couldn’t see them out of the frameless, floor-to-ceiling stacked glass doors.
There’s also a private lounge, dining room and interactive open-plan kitchen if you’re feeling communal, but when you’ve got access to an open-air hot tub, shaded outdoor seating areas, a private pool and art installations back at your room, we wouldn’t blame you if you never left it.
RELATED ⟶ NOW THIS IS A SAFARI
Then again, that would mean missing out on Damaraland itself, which would be a crying shame. This is one of Namibia’s most spectacular regions, where giant granite boulders rise from the desert floor, ancient valleys stretch towards the horizon and wildlife somehow thrives against all odds. Keep an eye out for desert-adapted elephants wandering through the landscape, along with giraffes, antelope and the occasional big cat.
The retreat itself takes its name from Onduli, a local giraffe who was known to frequent the area long before guests started arriving. Frankly, with views like these, we can see why he stuck around.
What makes the place even more impressive is how lightly it sits on the land. Solar power, water-saving systems and thoughtful design choices mean the villas have been built to work with the environment rather than against it. It’s luxury, yes, but luxury with a conscience.
Of course, the real show begins once the sun goes down. Damaraland’s remote location means virtually zero light pollution, turning the night sky into one giant planetarium. Whether you’re soaking in the hot tub, stretched out on your deck or tucked into bed beneath the stars, you’ll quickly realise why people travel halfway around the world for a sky this clear.
Why It Exists
To immerse guests in the vast landscapes of Damaraland while showcasing a style of luxury that works with nature, not against it.
The Vibe
Elevated desert living, where giant granite boulders, endless horizons and star-filled skies steal the spotlight.
Your Bed Tonight
A glass-fronted villa perched 12 metres above the ground, complete with a private pool, open-air hot tub and the option to roll your bed beneath the stars.
The Thing You’ll Brag About Later
Sleeping outside under one of Africa’s clearest night skies and waking up to views of Brandberg stretching across the horizon.
Eat / Drink This
A long, leisurely dinner paired with a South African wine as the desert shifts through every shade of gold, pink and purple.
Steal This Local Move
Set your alarm for sunrise, wrap your hands around a coffee and watch the first light hit the mountains from your deck before the desert wakes up.
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