Ugab Terrace Lodge
UGAB TERRACE
A sign along the road warns us of the steep gradient we need to navigate before reaching the lodge. Do you know what they say about a steep drive to reach your destination? I don’t either, but it should go something like this: “The higher the lodge, the better the views!” And boy, does Ugab Terrace Lodge deliver. What better way to experience this region than by staying on one of the terraces themselves, and enjoying a 360-degree view of the valley formed over millions of years?
Certain lodges attempt to be overly luxurious with decor designed to keep you indoors. Not so at Ugab Terrace: This is where you go if you want to feel part of nature in simplicity and style. The lodge has unrivalled sunset views over the terraces. There are activities on offer, but with its high vantage point, it’s more of a place to relax with a book and get lost in the immense panorama whenever you look up.
The lodge has been managed by Meyer Wiese for the past three years. He previously studied field guiding in the Kruger National Park.
“When the lodge was built in 2007, every stone used was brought up here by a single Hilux bakkie,” he says. “The hill was too steep for trucks.”
What makes the place special? “The vast space is a source of wonder for visitors,” he says. “They can gaze out over the ancient landscape without another soul in sight.”
While we were there, an unexpected cloudburst gave some muchneeded rain to the thirsty soil of the drought-stricken area. We watched the storm moving across the land from north to south. Unforgettable!
Facilities: There are 16 chalets perched on a cliff, each with its own balcony. The three campsites are located at the foot of the hill. Campsites share an ablution block, which consists of three toilets and showers. There is no electricity but campers can use power points at the lodge parking area for recharging appliances.
Any niggles? Not much. The lodge allows you to be entirely immersed in your surroundings and it’s hard to find fault. The campsites have their own views of the Ugab Terrace, although from much lower down; stay in a chalet to fully appreciate your surroundings.
Rates: Camping R270 p.p; double room from R1 725 p.p. sharing DB&B.
Activities: Glide along a zipline (R450 p.p.) or do the 5 km walking trail. Go on your own or with a guide (R300 p.p.) to learn more about the fauna and flora along the way. Rock art was discovered not too long ago: a four-hour guided tour is available for R600 p.p. A scenic sundowner drive costs R350 p.p.
Day visitors: You’re welcome to have a drink or a meal at the restaurant and enjoy the view. Activities are also available to day visitors, but you must book in advance.
Contact: 00 264 81 140 0179; ugabterracelodge.com
Which finger?
Vingerklip should not be confused with the “Finger of God”, or Mukurob. Mukurob was a 450-tonne, 12 m-high sandstone formation precariously balanced on a rock pedestal near the settlement of Asab in the south-east of Namibia. It collapsed on 7 December 1988.