The wide-open expanse of the southern Namib desert is a place of transcendent beauty, where towering sand dunes, unearthly salt flats and skeletal forests evoke a sense of solitude and humility. Nestled in the heart of this sublime landscape, Little Kulala is a Wilderness Safaris desert retreat set in 27,000 hectares of protected wilderness, with direct access to the magnificent red sand dunes of Sossusvlei on the doorstep.
Private rooftop terraces on the 11 newly-refurbished desert suites provide 360-degree views of the mesmerising landscape and its residents. Once bereft of indigenous wildlife thanks to subsistence goat farming, original habitats have been restored and repopulated during the 25 years that Wilderness Safaris has been active in the area.
Today, it’s possible to see the results of this rehabilitation programme through day and night game drives, guided hikes through mountain and riverbed trails, or guided quad bike rides into the desert, mindful of sensitive local habitats. Alternatively, slow the pace down and surrender to a blissful treatment at the new spa, created with South African spa brand Healing Earth, or plan a sunrise breakfast, brunch or G&T break at one of the innumerable vantage points around the reserve.
Keen photographers can stop in at the Olympus photo hub to hone their desert photography skills, before embarking on a hot air balloon ride over the salt flats or setting up their tripods to capture starry night sky images, far away from the lights of the urban environment. Back at camp, travellers can swap stories and learn more about the geology of the area and the local wildlife at nightly gatherings around the fire pit, or perhaps treat themselves to a private dinner for two in the camp’s sunken wine cellar, before returning to their suite for a rooftop nightcap or a sleep-out under the stars. From US $665 per night.