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16 June 2020

Gateway To The Kingdom Of Animals And The Culture Of The Aawambo

By *Lynn Strydom, Gondwana Collection Namibia

The newest lodge of Gondwana Collection Namibia, Etosha King Nehale, opened its doors on 10 June 2020. It is located on the northern edge of the legendary Etosha National Park, only one kilometre away from the King Nehale Gate. To the north of the lodge are the communal areas of the regions Oshikoto, Oshana, Ohangwena and Omusati, which have been little developed for tourism until now - a treasure chest of the Oshiwambo culture, in which the Nguni cattle plays an important role.   

Accordingly, the chalets of Etosha King Nehale start from a central area, their orientation is based on the shape of Nguni horns. Each of the spacious accommodations with its own mini pool on the private veranda is worthy of a king - not least the late Ondonga King Nehale lya Mpingana was the godfather of the lodge's name. The 40 rooms give an impression of the rich cultural heritage of the region and offer a boundless view over the vast Andoni plain. Many of the interior decorations were made by local craftsmen and artists.   

The wonders of the nearby Etosha National Park can be experienced by guests of Etosha King Nehale in a very special way: During an excursion into the huge nature reserve, the guide drives to a natural water hole that is reserved for guests of Etosha King Nehale only. An elevated viewing platform provides a unique view of the waterhole, where, with a bit of luck, the rich diversity of the animal world can be observed. 

Etosha King Nehale was built in an environmentally friendly way with sandbags filled on site; the natural building material has excellent sound and heat insulating qualities. The lodge is equipped with a solar and water treatment plant, waste is disposed of sustainably.  

Etosha King Nehale is located 40 km from Namutoni on the northern border of the Etosha National Park and is an ideal starting point for trips to northern Namibia.   

By Inke Stoldt