Reverie Kalahari Pod bedroom
Interior of the Reverie Kalahari Pod
Valentine’s Day comes and goes every year. For some, it is an opportunity to spoil their loved one, and for others, it is not significant at all. For me, it is very important to make my partner feel loved, especially on Valentine’s Day. But the age-old question always comes up: “How do I make this year special?” So, for this year, I decided to go on a secret mission — a romantic getaway for two people across Namibia, from the rolling dunes in the Kalahari to the serene waters of the Kwando River.
With a mix of anticipation and a whole lot of excitement, we packed our Toyota Hilux and set off on our adventure, starting in the Kalahari. From a bustling city to tranquil green mountains, it never ceases to amaze me how the landscapes can change in Namibia. We passed the Acacia Forest and stopped at the famous Tropic of Capricorn Sign for a photo — because we all know that you need proof!
Our first destination was Kalahari Anib Lodge, where the warm smiles of the staff matched the golden sunlight spilling over the horizon. My partner was unaware that the lodge was not our destination but rather the new Reverie Kalahari Pod! The Reverie was an absolute dream come true. The architecture blended into the red Kalahari dunes effortlessly, while the earthy yet modern tones and décor made you feel all warm and cosy.
While sipping my Olifantsberg Pinotage next to the crystal-clear pool, I couldn’t help but realise how time stood still here in the middle of nowhere, where you can hear the birds chirping and the cicadas buzzing in the background. It is here where I realised that the Kalahari and, more importantly, this trip is meant to remind us just to be and spend some time together.
Above: The Reverie Kalahari Pod | Featured: The Desert Whisper
After two wonderful days of game drives, delicious meals and laughter under starry skies, it was time for our next adventure. This time heading to the Namib Desert and The Desert Whisper. Now, this has been a bucket-list destination for as long as I can remember, and just seeing my partner’s face when we were escorted to the magnificent pod in the middle of nowhere made me all warm and fuzzy inside! It was bathed in endless views of the ancient Namib Desert, not to mention the breathtaking sunsets. It truly felt as if we could connect on a different level since it was just the two of us, the beauty of nature and not a single soul in sight. Sharing our stories, dreams, laughter and listening to what nature had to say is a memory I’ll cherish forever.
What was the next destination, you may ask? Well, what would a Namibian road trip be without Swakopmund? And here, I booked The Pearls Beach Pod, right on the beach, close to our favourite restaurants, but still having the privacy and alone time that we are seeking. My favourite part was preparing breakfast and having it on the balcony with delicious coffee, overlooking the rolling waves and having some meaningful conversation. After exploring Swakopmund’s charming shops and indulging in its culinary delights, we ended our days in the hot tub with a glass of bubbly.
I was craving a bit of adventure, and what better way to do that than with a game drive in Etosha National Park? So, naturally, our next stop was The Ekipa Etosha Pod. Something about Etosha always makes me feel as if I am truly on an African Safari, and The Ekipa, with its cultural ties, gives you luxury safari but also a newfound respect for how we, as Namibians, embrace our culture and showcase it to the world! Driving through Etosha, spotting wildlife, and sharing the thrill of each sighting reminded me why I fell in love with this country — and my partner — all over again.
Clockwise from top-left: The Desert Whisper bedroom; hot tub at The Pearls Beach Pod; dining at The Namushasha River Villa; The Pearls Beach Pod bedroom.
For our grand finale, we headed on a long but rewarding journey to the lush Zambezi region in the north of Namibia. After a restful stop at Hakusembe River Lodge, we finally arrived at Namushasha River Lodge, and I knew this would be a special destination for my partner! Nothing makes him more excited than a river and the opportunity to fish! We were taken by boat to Namushasha River Villa, and I was in awe! Your own private and romantic houseboat in the middle of the river with views for days and animals all around you. It felt like a different world, and I knew my partner was in his element.
Since the Secret Collection properties are all-inclusive, we decided to make the most of our three days in the Zambezi. We went on our very own private guided game drive in the Bwabwata National Park, and we even went fishing — or I tried my best. You know what they say: happy spouse, peaceful house!
After almost two weeks on the road and taking in the best that Namibia has to offer, I can’t help but smile and pat myself on the back. This is truly an unforgettable Valentine’s getaway, one where my partner and I connected again, laughed at the small things and forgot about the things that are not important. It was just us, our love, our passion for travelling and exploring, and The Secret Collection. I guess my little romantic secret is out now; I wonder how I will top this next year?
The Namushasha River Villa
If you would like to book a romantic getaway for yourself and your significant other, contact Gondwana Collection Namibia using the links below…
GONDWANA COLLECTION NAMIBIA
42 Nelson Mandela Avenue
(Entrance on Kwame Nkrumah St.)
Windhoek, Namibia
Web: gondwana-collection.com
Tel: +264 61 427 200
Email: travel@gcnam.com
Instagram: @gondwanalodges
Facebook: @gondwana.collection.namibia