THE Hardap Recreational Resort, which closed its doors to the public for renovations four years ago, is expected to open for business by the end of this year.
The resort, situated about 15 kilometres north-west of Mariental, offers bungalows and campsites on the periphery of the Hardap Dam, which is renowned for various water sports such as boating, canoeing and fishing.
According to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism’s website, it is also home to about 284 bird species including the great white pelican, yellow-billed stork, osprey, Bradfield’s swift and Stark’s lark.
The Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) manager corporate communications and online media, Mufaro Nesongano, said last week that despite some minor delays, the project was progressing well.
“The Hardap resort is on course and will be opened this year. We have experienced some minor delays but we can assure the public that we will not end the year without opening the resort,” he said.
Renovations, which cost about N$40 million, include work on the restaurant, swimming pool, and five VIP bungalows.
Nesongano said a new conference centre was constructed while the kitchen was rebuilt.
The contractor working on the project, Paul de Klerk from Mariental Construction, also told Nampa that the project was on course.
Renovations on the front office, administration blocks and one house for NWR staff have been completed. Other staff houses are still under construction, as well as the laundry room.
De Klerk said the company is still renovating 15 standard bungalows that are expected to be completed in the next two months, while 30 one-bedroom bungalows will be finished in the next four to five months.
“The first phase of the project will be handed over to NWR by July/August this year, while the second phase will be handed over before the end of the year. Everything is going well,” he added.
The resort closed for renovations after the restaurant burned down in 2010 due to an electrical fault in the kitchen.
New additions planned include a floating bar and restaurant while sunset cruises, canoeing and yachting facilities, and guided activities such as hiking and nature drives will be offered.
This development is expected to take about 18 months. – Nampa
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
