Located in the Etosha National Park about four kilometers from the Andersson Gate, Taleni Etosha Village is a unique destination for anyone looking to experience Namibia and everything Africa has to offer. The name Taleni is native for ‘view’ or ‘vision’, and the concept behind this self-catering resort offers guests a place that reflects a modern style and comfort while still taking ideas from the traditional African village.
The resort was opened in 2008 and provides guests a way to save money on food costs by providing them with self-catering accommodations. However, there is also a restaurant on the premises. After all, it is nice to let someone else cook once in a while. The resort was built to resemble a traditional African village and it is child friendly, encouraging families to stay and use it as a base to explore the area.
Taleni Etosha Village has a main lodge that includes a guest cloakroom and secure parking. There is a shop at the main lodge that sells everything from souvenirs to groceries and everything in between, perfect for a self-catering holiday. There are three outdoor dining areas, all canopied, a children’s swimming pool, and an adult swimming pool. An open air bar complete with satellite television finishes off the lodge area and guests can get coffee and tea there 24 hours a day.
Guests should note that this resort is in a malaria area of Namibia and they should take the necessary precautions against mosquito bites during their stay.
The forty self-catering rooms at Taleni Etosha Village are all made from canvas and are situated around the resort on timber decks. Each accommodation has its own furnished outdoor dining area complete with a kitchenette that includes a washing up area, two plate hob, and under the counter refrigerator. There is also a small barbeque area at each room. The bedrooms are tented and feature twin beds with shelving and a closet area for clothing. There is a writing desk with chair and sleeper sofa that can accommodate children who are staying at the resort with their parents. The en-suite bathrooms include an open air shower, toilet and wash basin with walls made from local mopane branches for privacy.
The location of the resort allows guests to partake in daily game drives in Etosha National Park. The drives start at 6:30am depending on the season and return to the lodge after a picnic lunch. The second game drive starts at 2pm. The drives are done in a 10 passenger vehicle and there are plenty of chances for photographing the wildlife and getting out to stretch. The drivers of the vehicles are also the guides.
There are also sundowner trips in the bush to watch the sunset. They leave around 6:30 pm and return in time for dinner at the restaurant. Guests may also choose to remain at the resort and simply relax at the swimming pool or in their accommodations.
