Relaxing and animal viewing at the waterhole of the Elephant Sands Lodge

At the Elephant Sands Lodge in Nata, everything revolves around one unforgettable focal point: a natural waterhole that draws in wildlife throughout the day… and well into the night. It’s not unusual to see dozens of elephants gathering here, sometimes more than 30 at once, wandering in to drink or have a bath just metres from the restaurant, bar and pool area. What makes this place so special is the wonderfully unfenced setting. It’s just you and the quiet thrill of watching animals come and go on their own terms, without barriers. Whether you’re cooling off in the pool, sunbathing or enjoying a drink in the shade, you have front-row seats to the spectacle. The waterhole is softly illuminated after dark, and silhouettes of elephants turn into great stories around the campfire.