Zannier Hotels: new fly-in safari over Namibia

A bird's eye view of the Big Five

When animal conservationist and pilot Rudie van Vuuren lifts the control stick and takes to the skies in his light aircraft, a smile spreads across his face. Because when he shows guests the 7,500-hectare private nature reserve Zannier Reserve by N/a'an ku sê from above on a sightseeing flight, he doesn't just do it to give visitors an unforgettable experience. He also does it because the private sightseeing flights over the impressive reserve make a significant contribution to animal and species conservation in the region.


Experiences that do good

Rudie van Vuuren runs the Zannier Reserve by N/a'an ku sê together with his wife Marlice. It is located in the middle of the Namibian savannah, north-east of the capital Windhoek. Guests stay here in the Omaanda Lodge, the first African lodge of the still young hotel group Zannier Hotels. Here, individual design meets traditional Owambo influences, French-inspired cuisine and African down-to-earthness come together on the plates, while the ten accommodations with their thatched roofs are reminiscent of typical Rondavel houses.

Guests go in search of local wildlife. They can observe rhinos, jackals, kudu antelopes, ostriches, cheetahs and leopards or visit the Zannier Reserve veterinary clinic, where injured elephants and rhinos are treated and cared for. Animal and species conservation is a matter close to the heart of the Omaanda Lodge and the N/a'an ku sê Foundation, which is why the new fly-in safaris were conceived. In this way, guests experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, while at the same time supporting the rehabilitation center of the animal sanctuary with their donation of 250 euros per flight.

The flying safaris last around 30 minutes. Whether in the early morning hours just in time for sunrise or in the late afternoon shortly before sunset: unique animal sightings are possible at any time of day. Observing rhinos, elephants and many other wild animals from a bird's eye view in their natural environment is quite literally the highlight of any trip to Namibia.

Further information & booking. www.zannierhotels.com