The thrill of adventure is omnipresent at Zannier Hotels Sonop. The opulence and finesse of the tented lodge, located in Namibia’s southwest corner, immediately recalls the 1920s era of British explorers. On arrival, you immediately step back in time, transported to an old-world safari.

Constructed on top of giant granite boulders, with an elaborate maze of wooden walkways, Zannier Hotels Sonop is set within its own 5,600-hectare (13,800-acre) nature reserve in the world’s oldest, Namib desert. The surrounding ancient landscape is one of untamed beauty; soaring dunes meet the dark rock of the Naukluft Mountains and endless azure blue skies.

From the dramatic four-poster beds to the partially-walled bathrooms with vintage bathtubs and private terraces, everything in Sonop’s ten spacious tented suites focuses on the richness of the desert and awe-inspiring views. More than five hundred handpicked furnishings and antiques – Persian rugs, binoculars and maps, travellers’ tales, telescopes, antique desks and handmade stationary – ensure that every moment turns into a unique experience.

A lodge for both exploration and relaxation, Zannier Hotels Sonop captures the restorative essence of the desert landscape with an open-air infinity pool, fitness centre and daily yoga, truly integrating guests’ well-being with the natural world. Rejuvenating treatments and signature rituals at the spa embrace ancient Namibian healing traditions using blends of local roots, herbs, and spices including myrrh, marula and rare Namibian ‘pearl’ sea salt.

When desert adventure calls, guided excursions include horse-riding from Zannier Hotels Sonop’s own stables, invigorating electric fat-bikes or walking trails to explore the rugged wilderness. Contemplating the magnificent view stretching into the distance might be one of the most relaxing activities when solitude can be enjoyed in the lap of simplicity. From sunrise to sunset, on-foot exploration is ideal to admire the breathtaking landscape. Amid the splendid isolation, wondrous sightings include barking geckos, prehistoric-looking quiver trees and desert wildlife for the lucky ones.

Once-in-a-lifetime experiences at Zannier Hotels Sonop include a private hot air balloon safari offering a birds-eye view of the cinematic desert landscape at sunrise, followed by a lavish Champagne breakfast. With equal splendour, guests can dine under the immense galaxy of stars atop the Sonop dune. Hurricane lamps hanging from the ancient branches of the Acacia Erioloba, to crystal decanters, silverware and white-gloved service evoke the romance of early adventurers.

From nightly five-course gala-style dining, authentic African menus, cocktails and parlour games, every dining experience provides opportunities to share sightings and stories of the day. The magic continues after dark with an open-air cinema and stargazing under the endless African skies.

Sustainability at Zannier Hotels Sonop is run hand in hand with its unique guest experiences. Over nine hundred solar panels and five boreholes ensure that the lodge respects its environment long into the future.

Located on the Southern edge of the Namib Desert, in the Hardap region, Zannier Hotels Sonop has its own private airstrip, allowing guests to access the lodge from any African airport, including nearby Windhoek, with small planes.

A: Zannier Hotels Sonop, Sonop Farm, Road D707, Hardap Region (Namibia)
T: +264 (0)81 125 4932
E: Reservations
W: Zannier Hotels

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