Namibia’s Onduli Ridge recognised as one of the best hotels in the world

Ultimate Safaris’ recently upgraded Onduli Ridge has won the Richard Bangs Best Hotels in the World Award, celebrating unparalleled excellence in hospitality.

Award-winning author and travel pioneer, Richard Bangs, explained that the six-suite luxury lodge and spa in Namibia’s rugged Damaraland, which “is known for its world-class accommodations, impeccable service, and unique experiences”, earned its place among the best hotels in the world because it “has set a new standard, providing guests with unforgettable stays and exceptional quality”.

Starting off as a guide on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon during college holidays, the 73-year-old Bangs first made his name when he and his crew managed to successfully run Ethiopia’s Awash River in 1973. Often referred to as the “father of modern adventure travel”, he went on to establish the world’s first multi-national river-riding adventure company and lead first descents of 35 rivers across the world.

This is the second award earned by Onduli Ridge, which last year won the prestigious PURE Award for Creativity for its innovative design, sustainability, and conservation. The lodge, which is named for the resident giraffe, offers a spacious communal lounge with library, dining room, bar, campfire circle and deck, a swimming pool, waterhole for game viewing, and a private airstrip with waiting lounge and ablutions. Children are very welcome at the lodge and can join excursions including looking for desert adapted elephants, star gazing, solar e-biking, rock art viewing, nature drives, and walks, or even, on a 3-night stay, searching for the highly endangered black rhino.

Having himself won numerous different awards, Bangs’ recognition of Onduli Ridge will go a long way to further promoting tourism to, and knowledge of, Namibia.