The second endeavour of hip hospitality group Habitas after their beachfront retreat in Tulum, Mexico, Habitas Namibia occupies a former private hunting estate turned wildlife preserve, a testament to the group’s sustainability ethos. Build along the ridge of a hillside overlooking the savanna, the hotel’s 15 private lodges offer guests panoramic views as well as comfort. Designed to have a minimal impact on the environment, the guest lodges are made from stretch tent material and mesh, decorated with locally crafted objects and bespoke furniture. Swathed in earthy tones and natural textures, their austere aesthetic belies a trove of subtle luxuries such as king-sized beds, rain showers and wraparound private decks wherefrom guests can watch and listen to the elephants, giraffes, antelopes and birds that populate the reserve.

The stand-alone guest rooms are complemented by a private villa sleeping ten that occupies the property’s only existing structure, and a new communal building housing the lobby, lounge, restaurant, library and spa, as well as a series of outdoor spaces like shaded terraces, fire pits and a swimming pool floating above the grassy plains that appears as if it has been dug into the rocks.

At the core of Habitas Namibia’s experience-focused mindset is the exploration of the area’s natural and cultural wonders. Guests have the opportunity not only to go on safari drives, mountain bike rides and nature hikes led by local San people, but also participate in cooking and medicinal plant workshops, watch educational films and documentaries in the hotel’s outdoor cinema, and attend live local music gatherings. Combined with wellness activities including yoga classes, meditation sessions and spa treatments, and a regionally inspired dinner menu based on locally sourced, organic ingredients, the retreat successfully immerses guests in Namibia’s customs and traditions.