Dunes Backpackers Lodge

Dunes Backpackers Lodge is a good choice for travelers who like to stay near the beach and all the activities in the town. It has nice common areas and a really cool indoor pool and bar. It is a popular stop for overland truck tours, with a constant stream of new people arriving. It is very social and a good place to meet people.

The Location

This hostel has an excellent location. It is close to the ocean, shops, and travel booking centers. Swakopmund has a lively adventure vibe and evening activities in the town that are an easy walk from the hostel.

Rooms and Bathrooms

The Dunes has twin bed rooms, and four-, six- and ten-bed mixed dorms with most being en-suite. The bigger dorm rooms are a bit cramped.The best rooms are the four-bed dorms. The beds are comfortable and clean, but there is not much personal space. There are no lockers provided, so guests should have their own locks for their gear. The hostel could use more bathrooms -- when the hostel is full, there is sometimes a wait.

Common Spaces

There is a bar and lounge for socializing and an indoor pool that is a great place to hang out. This hostel is popular with the overland truck crowd, so it is often quite crowded. For a good time this is a place to stay since it is very social. There isn't a kitchen for guest use. The pool/bar seems to be the social spot but there is also a lounge with a television and videos.

Summary

This hostel has a great location near the beach. However, extra charges can add up since there seems to be an extra charge for most things like laundry and internet -- these things can be found cheaper in town. Also, it seems to be a smoker-friendly place. There is a tour desk at reception but their tours are much more expensive than ones located in the town.

Review by S. Topf

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
January 2009