With an increasing demand for luxury, wellness and accommodation in one neat package, world-class spas are popping up in all parts of this spectacularly serene country. Whether in the far north of the Okavango region or deeper south towards Sossusvlei and the magnificent west coast, tourists and business people alike are sure to find the perfect retreat that provides their very own piece of heaven on earth.

Desert dreaming

Situated just 21 kilometres from the entrance to the Namib Naukluft Park and spectacular Sossusvlei region lies Le Mirage Desert Lodge and Spa. Surrounded by acres of untouched wilderness and immaculate dunes, this three-star lodge is a harmonious blend of luxury and natural relaxation.

Guests are accommodated in one of 25 luxury rooms complete with en-suite bathrooms and all standard room amenities, as well as air-conditioning to keep one cool during those sweltering Namibian days. Wake up to a sunrise like no other and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the lodge’s spacious restaurant, while gazing out across the barren plains.

A dip in the sparkling swimming pool amid an oasis of palm trees, as a precursor to a relaxing soak in the Jacuzzi, is a sure way to unwind the body and relax the mind while you plan the afternoon’s adventures.

The lodge offers a variety of activities including quad-biking for the more adventurous, a fascinating Sossusvlei excursion for the nature lover and ‘the sky’s the limit’ ballooning for those who wish to experience this breathtaking landscape from the air.

The name of the game

Further north, located on the private 21 000 hectare Epacha Game Reserve lie two exclusive game lodges, about 70 kilometres away from the magnificent Etosha National Park.

Epacha Game Lodge and Spa is equipped with 18 private en-suite chalets, an exquisite Presidential Suite, a swimming pool and a luxurious spa, as well as a restaurant and two conference rooms. The guest lounge overlooks a watering hole, which attracts a variety of wildlife including 21 species of antelope.

Guests can relax in style in the quiet library, cigar and cognac room or at the lodge’s outdoor pool bar. The Mystique Spa, synonymous with the Leading Lodges of Africa group, offers the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation with a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, splash pool and several comfortable treatment rooms. You can also experience their popular Thelaso Therapy treatment, which incorporates the medical use of seawater – believed to be beneficial to the pores of the skin. ‘Thalasso’ therapy was first developed in the 19th century in the seaside towns of Brittany in France and has become increasingly popular at some of the world’s most prestigious spas and wellness centres. The treatment is said to have restorative effects on dull, dry or cellulite-prone skin, as well as on a variety of health ailments including diabetes mellitus and respiratory disease.

Where the eagles fly

Following in the sandy footsteps of Epacha Game Lodge, is Leading Lodges’ newest arrival to the group — Eagle Tented Lodge and Spa. Providing breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains and valleys, this luxury lodge is built from natural rock with beautiful thatched roofs.

Boasting eight standard and eight luxury canvas tents, all the tents have private raised wooden balconies with a splash pool, as well as en-suite facilities. Wake up to the warm sun shining outside your tent before making your way to one of the two restaurants for a delectable breakfast before you start the day.

Guests can partake in game drives through Epacha and Etosha National Park. If you’re looking for the ultimate in comfort and relaxation, a pampering in the spa is the order of the day. The fully equipped spa with aroma and mud baths, hydrotherapies, yoga and Thalasso treatments, has a package (or two, or three) to replenish each and every soul, and their exceptional therapists will spoil you with an unforgettable bush experience.

Little paradise

Situated in one of the northern-most and visually appealing regions of Namibia, the Divava Okavango Lodge and Spa in the Caprivi is a few hundred metres from the Popa Falls (referred to fondly by locals as Paradishi Ghomumbiru or ‘little paradise’).

Guests at Diviva can choose from 20 luxurious chalets overlooking the Okavango River and enjoy the wonderful facilities the lodge has to offer, including a restaurant and bush bar, swimming pool and sundowner deck as well as the lodge’s own Mystique Spa.

The spa at Divava, housing a sauna and steam room, is perfectly situated to allow for true rejuvenation surrounded by your very own taste of paradise. Round, open treatment rooms overlook the river, teaming with wildlife.

Try the African Facial if you’re looking to spoil yourself during your Namibian getaway. This really is the ultimate facial; guests lie down, relax completely and get pampered for an hour. The facial includes cleansing of the pores, eyebrow shaping, a luxurious moisturising mask, and gentle face massages.

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