Deals of the day
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
If you want to experience the wild, the natural, the modern and the luxurious, all at the same time, you’ll find it at EPAKO, one of Africa’s finest game reserves.
The EPAKO Safari Game Lodge is located in Namibia, in beautiful mountainous surroundings on the outskirts of the renowned Damaraland region, and is conveniently located midway between Windhoek, Swakopmund and the Etosha National Park.
Get up close to a wide variety of animals in their natural wildlife sanctuary
Rooms & Suites
All of our accommodations are to a very high standard, luxuriously appointed in an African style. Each room features its own furnished terrace overlooking the gardens or Namibian bush.
Relax here in total peace and quiet or join in with other guests at our outside terrace and dining area, which overlooks a waterhole, and is an ideal spot to watch the animals come to drink.Meals can be taken inside or outside.
We serve a combination of Namibian and French cuisine with specially picked South African wines. Special diets can of course be catered for on request.
All our rooms have air conditioning, bathroom, mini-bar, satellite television, telephone and private terrace.
Dining
EPAKO, offer’s dining and service to the best international standards.Our executive chef will delight you with a combination of local and international cuisine, served either in our main lodge dining rooms or on the adjoining open air terrace, both with un inter-rupted views onto the surrounding bush and lodge waterhole.
The spacious terrace and lounge area’s are also ideal setting’s for relaxing over drinks, soaking up the atmosphere, spotting animals at the waterhole, or gazing at the stars.And of course we’ll be happy to accommodate any special di-etary needs you have. Just tell us what they are.
The restaurant
Situated in the main lodge area, the restaurant offers spectacu-lar river and floodlit waterhole views while enjoying a gastro-nomic fusion of Namibian and international cuisine, comprising mostly locally sourced ingredients.
Our carefully selected range of South African wines completes your stellar dining experience.
The terrace
The extensive terrace fronting the main lodge area, offers mag-nificent views over the floodlit waterhole where you can watch any number of our resident mammal and bird species quench-ing their thirst.
Oryx, zebra, Kudu, Giraffe, Eland and Rhino are regular visitors to the waterhole and look out for our resident pair of Gaint Eagle Owl’s that have nested in the age old trees nearby.
All whilst enjoying our exquisite food and wine. The terrace also offers a relaxed, informal lounge area – the per-fect place to enjoy a drink served to you by our friendly waiters
Sundowner
Depart in the late afternoon for a leisurely, guided game drive through the Lodge’s private reserve. Watch the shadows lengthen as your guide takes you out to a panoramic location where sundowner drinks will be served as you relax and watch the spectacular sunset.
The inner tranquillity that a desert sun-set imparts while you sit amongst nature is really something special.Follow this by savouring an authentic African feast around an open-air fire pit.
Spa & Wellness
The brand new “Epako Spa” housed in purposely built nature respecting premises with a 25m long glass facade overlooking the seasonal riverbed maybe one of the very few places in the world where one can enjoy a treadmill run or a hot-hub session while enjoying amazing views of the majes-tic animals quenching their thirst at the main waterhole.
Activities
An abundance of activities await you. They will take you on a journey to discover the wonders of the geography, the wildlife and the history of EPAKO, the region, and Namibia at large.
Depending on your particular interests, your hosts will ensure that your experience at EPAKO is richly memorable and rewarding.
Game viewing
With many mammals species and 170 bird species EPAKO’S 11,000 hectare bushveld private game reserve ensures that our guests get an exceptional experience of Namibia’s untamed wilderness.
Offering afternoon safari game drives and/or bush walks, our friendly and attentive guides will impart age old stories and in-teresting facts about the wildlife, birds, plants and trees and the local geological formations and features.
The reserve is home to two of Africa’s “Big 5”, namely White Rhino and leopard. Other key species of interest include Spotted Hyaena, Cheetah, Damara Dik Dik, Hartmans Mountain Zebra and Bat Eared Foxes.
Activities in situ
Cheetah Rehabilitation: EPAKO is a sanctuary for Namibia’s Cheetah population. Cheetah that are captured on farms further afield in the region by live stock farmers are handed over to EPAKO for rehabilitation back into the wilds of the reserve.
The Cheetah have to spend a period of time in our quarantine boma, and our guests are able to visit the Cheetah boma at feeding times to get a close up look at the fastest mammal on earth! Two of the Cheetah in the rehabilitation boma were born in captivity and as such cannot be released into the wild.
Epako provides them with a secure and natural environment to call home for the rest of their days.
Bushman Rock Art: EPAKO’S location in Namibia’s Damaraland, means that it was home to San Bushman over the past thousands of years.
EPAKO is fortunate to have numerous San bushman paintings and rock engravings sites in a very good condition on the reserve. Based on other sites in the area, the age of the engravings can be as-sumed to be between 800 and 3000 years old and the paintings to be at least 1000 years old.
The San people: The Bushmen, properly known as the San people, were hunter-gatherers. The men hunted and the women gathered berries, edible leaves and roots. They were semi-nomadic and their huts were simple shelters based on an overhanging bush, covered with grass.
They lived in family groups and all their food was shared. On the rock overhangs and on huge boulders, they painted and engraved.For about 30,000 years, they were the sole inhabitants of southern Africa.
They lived within the sustenance capacity of their environment and never killed more animals than they needed. About 2000 years ago, migrants from the Bantu-speaking tribes from the north migrated here with their cattle and sheep.
The last four centuries of immigrants from Europe have completed the process of reducing the San to a small remnant. They now live in a few communities in the north of Namibia and the north east of Botswana. Their art expressed their religious beliefs.
The central ritual act was the trance, induced by music and dance, through which supernatural power was experi-enced. In such a trance, the medicine man could heal, predict rain and contact the other world where the spirits of their ancestors were.
In the trance, the medicine man was helped by the power of strong animals (Eland, Giraffes, Elephants), which also possessed supernatural powers. Often the medicine man was transformed, becoming half man, half animal. The San shared their world with the animals and respected them. Hunting scenes and common animals were very rarely painted.
The aim today of rock art researchers is to learn, through their knowledge of the customs and beliefs of the San, in order to understand the art from their point of view. You can experience our very own San ‘Bushmen’ rock art sites when you visit our 11,000 ha private game reserve in Namibia.
Guided Hiking: Get close to nature with our hiking trail perched on top of the mountains. Led by our well-trained Herero field guides, the half day or full day hikes are well worth it with fabulous views over the African desert bushveld and a well-earned drink to enjoy on top of the mountain.
Activities further afield:
EPAKO allows you to experience Africa’s natural wonders in comfort and style. The reserve itself is home to over 2000 animals, 170 species of birds and 11,000 hectares of unspoiled, beautiful bushveld.
Should you wish to venture further afield, you can take advantage of the following non-exhaustive list of optional activities and excursions (consult us for prices).
Location
Namibia, on the south-western Atlantic coast of Africa, the second least densely populated country in the world, is also considered one of the most impressive and invigorating, by its sheer vastness and stark beauty.
Its characteristic, awe-inspiring landscapes are marked by striking contrasts of colour, with orange sands, savannah, blue waters and yellow gorges.
Namibia’s wildlife is just as colourful, with the famous ‘big five’ experience a real possibility in the renowned Etosha National Park, and a diverse range of national parks and nature reserves.
The Namib Desert itself – the most famous source of diamonds on the planet – stretches for 1000 miles along the west coast, with its spectacular, haunting atmosphere and its towering dunes plunging into the Atlantic from heights of 300 metres.
If you are looking for unspoilt natural beauty and a spell-binding safari experience, come to Namibia and EPAKO.
Directions & Map
The Lodge is conveniently located midway between Windhoek, Swakopmund and the Etosha National Park.
Transfers by road from and to Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport are not included in the price of your stay at EPAKO. The road transfer takes approximately three and a half hours, one way.
Transfer by light aircraft can be arranged upon request (40-minute flight). Epako has a certified, well maintained gravel 1300 metre long airstrip situated on the private reserve, a mere 5 minutes drive from the lodge.
Guests that are flying in will be met by an Epako guide and open safari vehicle and the transferred to the lodge for check in. Aircraft can be tethered at the airstrip for guests flying in with their own pilot and planes. (Aircraft including King Air, Pilatus, Grand Caravans and smaller are permit-ted to land at Epako).
