Ai Aiba-Rock Painting Lodge

Three and a half hours from Windhoek you enter the Erongo Mountain Nature Conservancy. The gravel road to the Ai-Aiba, The Rock Painting Lodge is spectacularly flanked by the Erongo Mountain range. Massive boulders strewn across the landscape alongside strange rock formations are remnants of an ancient volcanic complex.

The steep drive up to the lodge’s main building already impresses. Elevated amongst giant boulders Ai Aiba lies like an oasis. The high thatched roof restaurant which opens up onto the magnificent view of bush Savannah and the Erongo Massif is cool and welcoming.

The thatched African inspired chalets are made up of twin and family rooms and are set against towering granite formations. Large windows frame the distant Erongo foothills and invite the outside in.

Ten African inspired private chalets made up of 20 rooms provide comfortable accommodation that optimises the unique setting. Large windows frame the rocky outcrops and bush Savannah with its incredible display of endemic trees such as the Purple-Pod Terminalia. Sleep with your curtains open and wake up to see the pink and blue hues of the African morning sky colour the landscape.

Each air-conditioned twin room, comprising two 3/4 beds, has a small lounge with a tea and coffee station and the big bathrooms comprise of a walk-in shower, luxury body products and a separate toilet. Excellent mattresses, soft towels and good bedding ensure a restful night’s sleep. The air-conditioned Family Rooms comprise of two 3/4 beds and a double bunk bed.

Ai Aiba Lodge forms part of the 200 000-hectare Erongo Mountain Nature Conservancy. This pristine wilderness area straddles the Erongo Mountains: a natural reserve within a vast volcanic crater complex, which boasts unparalleled biodiversity. Ai Aiba Lodge like to encourage guests to relax and take the time to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the Erongo Mountains and the Bushveld. It is a perfect place to spend the day by the pool with a good book, or if the energy of the granite mountains inspires you, to take a walk or drive with one of the experienced guides through the mountains.

The Nature/Bushman Rock Art drive takes about 3 hours, through the scenically beautiful property, with selected stops at sites to view and learn about bushman rock art. The drive will also include a stop for refreshments and snacks. A must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Walking the area surrounding the lodge is highly encouraged and is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Erongo Mountains. The guides have been very well trained on the interesting Fauna and Flora of the area and are available to escort guests through the property.