Accommodation

Sonop

“A sophistication that contrasts with the simplicity of the endless surroundings
Budget level: Top-End
Country
Namibia
When to Go
All year
Property Type
Camp Permanent
Location
Namib-Naukluft, Southern Namibia
Kids Min Age
6

The thrill of adventure is omnipresent at Zannier Hotels Sonop. The opulence and finesse of the tented camp, set in Namibia’s southwest corner, immediately recalls the 1920’s era of British explorers. On arrival you immediately step back in time, transported to old-world safari.

The lodge captures the restorative essence of the desert landscape with a spectacular open-air infinity pool, spa, fitness centre and daily yoga, to truly integrate guest’s wellbeing with the natural world. When desert adventure calls, the guided excursions include horse-riding from their own stables, private dining atop of the sand dunes, electric fat-bike or walking trails, hot air balloon safari and private sunset safaris. The magic continues after dark with a nightly gala-style dinner, open-air cinema and stargazing under the endless African skies.

View on Google Earth

Sonop is a luxurious tented camp nestled at the southern extremity of the Namib desert, in the Karas region. Designed as a refined British colonial experience from the 1920’s, this out-of-the-ordinary lodge offers a perfect retreat in a stunning panoramic desert landscape. Constructed on top of boulders, the ten spacious tents aim to offer a unique journey through time. Richly furnished with antiques made of fine materials, colourful carpets and precious wood, they are an invitation to live the life of yesteryear’s wealthy explorers. A sophistication that contrasts with the simplicity of the endless surroundings.

At Sonop everything is orientated towards the desert’s richness: all views are awe-inspiring and a large list of adventures allow guests to admire the desert’s genuine beauty at leisure. Every evening guests are invited to enjoy an opulent gastronomic experience, where silverware and candelabras set the mood, enhanced by black-tie and white gloves service. Flawless service and attention to detail characterise all facilities of the camp.

The comfortable and solidly built 1-bedroom tents feature an interior of 42 sqm. All tents offer several roll-up canvas openings with panoramic views and a large bedroom. The en-suite bathroom offers a large copper bathtub combined with a rain shower and double vanity. The bedroom features a four-poster bed with king-size mattress, a distinct living area with comfortable armchairs, a desk and a telescope to view the distant surroundings. Every tent at Sonop is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine, kettle, safe, air conditioning system, heating and a docking station. The lodge’s energy supply relies entirely on solar panels. Maximum occupancy is 2 adults and 1 child (6-12 years).

The 2-bedroom tents offer 2 separate bedrooms each with its own en-suite bathroom, and a shared living room. The interior measures 75 sqm and all facilities are the same as for the 1-bedroom.

At every moment of the day Sonop promises a pleasant gastronomic journey full of amazement and sobriety, like the desert’s offering.

  • From 7 am to 11 am, an energizing ‘à la carte’ breakfast is served in the main area, at the centre of the camp.
  • This same space turns into a quiet restaurant at noon, offering light dishes to share.
  • Overlooking the desert, the pool bar offers drinks and small bites to nibble from 11 am until 5 pm.
  • Every evening, at 8 pm precisely, guests are invited to a gala-style dinner. A large communal table in a prestigious setting reveals itself to the twenty guests in a room yet secretly kept. Silverware and candelabras set the mood for the elegant dinner, where butlers serve a delicious 5-course meal with black-tie and white gloves, such that the entire occasion becomes an unforgettable gastronomic experience in the middle of the desert.
  • The evening can be extended in the Cocktail & Cigar Lounge, designed in the style of an authentic gentlemen’s club with a billiard table and parlour games taking centre stage. A selection of cocktails and exclusive spirits, presented with utmost care on a slate, are served in a convivial atmosphere by our skilled barman.

At Sonop, the majestic surroundings of the desert provide ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Breath-taking outdoor excursions are offered within the 5 600 ha of the private reserve, where oryxes, brown hyenas, rabbits, foxes, jackals, kudus and leopards roam free.

Guest can choose to wake-up with a desert yoga experience, where an experienced teacher will guide guests of all levels. At any time of the day, guests can decide to explore the desert by foot, electric bike, or horseback, accompanied by our experienced guides who will provide unique insights on the local wildlife. Night walks are also available upon request.

Sonop is equipped with its own stables, where experienced riders offer guests the opportunity to learn horseback riding, as well as ride into the desert to explore the scenic surroundings. Comfortable game viewers will allow guests to discover the light blue distant mountains.

As night falls, the sky lights up, creating the unique opportunity to discover the stars from the numerous telescopes. Prepare to be surprised and delighted as you are guided on an unforgettable discovery of the sky. The open-air cinema will entice all film lovers, who in the comfort of their lounge chairs can enjoy a film while sipping on a cocktail in the middle of the desert.

A little further away, the majestic dunes of Sossusvlei are certain to delight even the most well-travelled adventurers. The luxury 4×4 vehicles will allow you to discover this grandiose sight in ultimate comfort. Other made-to-measure excursions will be organised on demand, such as hot air balloon trips and champagne breakfast and dinners in the wild dunes.

At Sonop the aim is to enhance the life and well-being of each and every guest. From the spa to the fitness centre and rooms, all the spaces have been carefully designed to provide with complete serenity and ultimate comfort.

Sonop is equipped with its own landing strip, allowing guests to access the lodge from any African airport with small planes. The nearest international airport is Windhoek Hosea Kutako Airport, about 1h20 away by plane.

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Contact SAFARI FRANK to get started on your safari of a lifetime!