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There is something utterly compelling about staying in a lodge that is also an iconic work of art. With its design inspired by the concept of sociable weaver bird nests and biomimicry (an innovative approach offering a sustainable way of living that is inspired by nature), artist Porky Hefer and entrepreneur Swen Bachran teamed up to build the ultimate desert getaway. The Nest @ Sossusvlei is a testament to cutting-edge design, yet the cocoon-like interiors invite languid days spent escaping the harsh Namibian climate.

Each of its four bedrooms contains carefully curated furnishings and finishes, largely from an uber-talented pool of South African designers. A dedicated team of staff is on hand to design your Nest experience every step of the way.

The 24,000 hectare Namib-Tsaris Conservancy is one of the most inspiring conservation projects in Southern Africa. Having identified his farm as ideal wildlife habitat, conservationist Swen Bachran removed over 120kms of fences with the aim of re-introducing all species indigenous to the land one hundred years prior. The geographically diverse conservancy is growing year on year, with passionate conservationists purchasing neighbouring tracts of land and joining the Namib-Tsaris, with the ultimate aim of introducing black rhino. Currently the rehabilitated area is home to a variety of indigenous wildlife – oryx, springbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, Burchell’s zebra, kudu, hartebeest, giraffe, steenbok, klipspringer, bat-eared fox and the elusive leopard.

Namib-Tsaris is located just 45 minutes away from the gates of Sossusvlei, providing access to the famous Great Sand Sea and World Heritage site – a big draw for visitors to this area.

What we love!

• Attention to detail and quality is exceptional, so discerning luxury travellers will want for nothing at The Nest
• A watering hole at the villa compels zebra and other plains game to come and drink, allowing relaxed wildlife viewing from from the verandah
• The Nest mobilises a team of carefully selected staff for each booking, chosen for the specific needs of the group – essentially creating a personalised ‘villa retreat’
• The Nest is easily accessed by charter plane from Windhoek and a brief game drive transfer to the villa.
• Clients enjoy an exclusive wildlife viewing experience of the Namib-Tsaris conservancy.

What you need to know…

• Namib-Tsaris is located six hours by road from Windhoek, or accessible via charter flight
• The villa has three adult bedrooms and accommodates a further four children or four adults in two cosy queen sized ‘bunk beds’ situated in a fourth bedroom.
• No fires or candles are allowed inside the villa, but a bush fire is lit outside each night before dinner
• Activities are all curated according to the needs of the guest, so the more information one provides the better the experience.

Sleep 10 (6 adults and 4 children)

Reviewed by Willow Constantine