Rooisand Desert Ranch

    Lodge in Gamsberg, Central Namibia

    Rooisand Desert Ranch

    4.5

    Overview

    Experience the untouched beauty of the Namibian desert and the warm hospitality of Rooisand Desert Ranch. Situated on 12,000 hectares on the C26 between Gamsberg and Kuiseb passes, halfway between Windhoek and Walvis Bay, the farm is surrounded by red sand dunes, vast grasslands and rugged mountains. Activities include stargazing at the observatory with the largest telescope available for public viewing, scenic and sundowner drives, guided hikes, drone safaris and clay pigeon shooting.

    Largest public telescope in Namibia
    12,000 hectare private desert ranch
    Planetary hiking trail
    Drone safari experience

    Your stay protects Namibia's nature

    Booking on SafariStays helps fund desert rhino trackers and community conservancies. It's the same stay — with a quiet ripple of good. Book with us to promote impact tourism.

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    Amenities

    Pool
    Restaurant
    Observatory
    Tennis
    Hiking
    Scenic Drives

    Rooms

    Comfort Double/Family Room - 1

    Comfort Double/Family Room

    Self-catering

    Individually designed comfort room ideal for couples or families, located at the main house with mountain views

    Sleeps 4
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $267
    Per night (2 adults)
    Comfort Single/Double Room - 1

    Comfort Single/Double Room

    Self-catering

    Comfortable room for single or double occupancy, beautifully appointed at the main house

    Sleeps 2
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $267
    Per night (2 adults)
    Mountain Chalet - 1

    Mountain Chalet

    Self-catering

    Private chalet offering complete privacy and tranquillity, ideal for families or travel companions

    Sleeps 4
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $360
    Per night, whole unit (sleeps 4)
    Standard Single Room - 1

    Standard Single Room

    Self-catering

    Economy single room situated close to the tennis courts with direct sunset views

    Sleeps 1
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $114
    Per night for 1 adult
    Standard Twin Room - 1

    Standard Twin Room

    Self-catering

    Twin room with two single beds, close to the tennis courts with views of the desert landscape

    Sleeps 2
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $227
    Per night (2 adults)
    Campsite - 1

    Campsite

    Self-catering

    Well-designed campsite for the adventurous type, perfect for experiencing the fantastic African skies first-hand

    Sleeps 6
    Children: Under 2 stay free · 2–11 half price · 12+ adult rate
    $22
    Per person per night, sharing

    Guest Reviews

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    Location

    Gamsberg, Central Namibia

    More about Rooisand Desert Ranch

    The stay

    Rooisand Desert Ranch is a property set against a backdrop of red sand dunes, grassy plains, and rugged mountains, offering a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The ranch provides nine rooms in total, comprising five spacious comfort rooms and four economy or budget rooms. These accommodations are located close to the main house. For those seeking greater seclusion, a mountain chalet is available, designed to provide complete privacy and views. Additionally, the ranch offers five individual campsites for guests who prefer outdoor lodging. The main house serves as a central hub, housing a restaurant, bar, a swimming pool, and a comfortable lounge with a small library and a fireplace. Recreational facilities at the main house include a tennis court, table tennis, and darts. The ranch also features the Rooisand observatory, which contains Namibia’s most advanced telescope and astrograph setup available for public use.

    Where you'll sleep

    Guests can choose from comfort rooms or economy/budget rooms situated near the main house, offering views of the garden and surrounding areas. Four of the comfort rooms are designed to be converted into family rooms. Each comfort room includes an en-suite bathroom with a shower, an electric kettle, and facilities for making tea and coffee. A desk and chairs are also provided within these rooms. Comfort rooms are equipped with a ceiling fan, hairdryer, WiFi, and a veranda. The mountain chalet is a private option with views. For campers, the five individual campsites are located approximately 1.5 kilometres from the main house. Each campsite features a power point, a wash basin, and braai or barbecue facilities. Campers share an ablution block with hot showers and separate toilets for men and women. Furnished tents are available upon request for campsite guests.

    Eating and drinking

    The main house at Rooisand Desert Ranch includes a restaurant and a bar. For guests staying in rooms, breakfast is included in the stay. Campsite guests’ rates include camping only. Each of the individual campsites is equipped with braai or barbecue facilities for self-catering. Campers also have access to a dining and seating space around a kitchenette.

    The location

    Rooisand Desert Ranch is located in Central Namibia, near the Gamsberg mountain pass in the Khomas Hochland. The ranch is situated on the edge of the central Namib Desert, approximately halfway between Windhoek and Walvis Bay. The scenic route to the ranch involves passing through the Kupferberg and Gamsberg Passes, offering an introduction to Namibia’s gravel roads and landscapes. The natural surroundings consist of red sand dunes, grassy plains, and rugged mountains. The ranch’s observatory features Namibia’s most advanced public-access telescope. Activities available on site include night drives, sundowner drives, and hiking tours to mineral and crystal sites. Guests can also visit rock art locations, participate in clay pigeon shooting, and experience the Planetary Walk, a star-gazing activity.

    Who it suits

    Rooisand Desert Ranch suits guests seeking a tranquil retreat in a desert environment, with options for both traditional accommodation and camping. It caters to individuals and families, particularly as four comfort rooms can be adapted for family use. Those interested in astronomy will find the ranch’s observatory with its advanced telescope a significant attraction. The array of activities, such as night drives, sundowner drives, hiking, and visits to rock art sites, appeals to guests looking to explore the natural and cultural landscape of the region. The peaceful atmosphere and the availability of facilities like a swimming pool, tennis court, and lounge with a library make it suitable for relaxation. Its location, approximately halfway between Windhoek and Walvis Bay, also positions it as a convenient stopover for travellers exploring Namibia's dramatic scenery.

    Rooisand Desert Ranch — frequently asked questions

    Rooisand Desert Ranch is located in Gamsberg, Central, Namibia. It is listed as a guesthouse on SafariStays, and its exact position is shown on the map on this page so you can plan your driving route between stops.