Namibia’s andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge partners with Africa Foundation, andBeyond’s long-standing community and conservation development partner. The foundation works with communities on a range of community-led programs. A key project supported by the lodge and its guests for more than 20 years is the school-nutrition program, currently providing daily meals for 715 vulnerable young learners at the P.A.Schmidt Primary School in the community of Maltahöhe.

Minimalistic suites made of stone and glass feature rooftops that simultaneously harness the Namib Desert’s sun with unobtrusive solar panels while providing natural shade through their design. Solar energy powers the lodge’s air conditioning, hot water system, greywater recycling system, and rainwater harvesting tanks. Recycled water feeds outdoor rain showers and indigenous desert gardens.

The lodge’s 31,000-plus-acre andBeyond Sossusvlei Private Desert Reserve isn’t simply home to star dunes and abundant wildlife, it also borders an International Dark Sky Reserve. Slowing down and reconnecting with the universe comes easy here, with the help of a resident astronomer when available, on-site observatory, and retractable skylights for in-bed stargazing, as guests learn how Dark Sky Reserves are re-shaping world policies on light pollution and preserving this heavenly heritage.

With its hybrid solar plant, the lodge’s direct carbon footprint has been reduced by 205,810 kilos of CO₂ per year. Other carbon emissions reduction initiatives include 100,000 liters of greywater recycled per month, reducing energy needs. The equivalent of 45,756 plastic water bottles per year have been eliminated by an on-site purified water bottling plant. The elimination of plastic bottles – a fossil fuel derived product –plays an important role in reducing water use, as well as carbon emissions on property.

Local guides lead desert tours that reveal ancient rock art and share the history and culture of Southern Africa’s Bushmen people, the region’s original inhabitants, whose descendants continue to live in the desert and semi-arid areas of southern Africa today.

Stays at andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge not only help support andBeyond’s broader philanthropic and eco-efforts in Africa, but guests can also give back by donating to Africa Foundation, andBeyond’s long-standing community and conservation partner, directly. Bonus: Guests can specify a project of their choosing from a selection of community development initiatives.