heritage, and
hospitality
The name Irene means peace—a fitting tribute to the deep family memories and quiet connection to nature rooted in this land.
Generations of our family have spent treasured time here in Namibia’s Sandveld, a region known for its serene beauty and resilience. Our mother grew up nearby, and our childhood was filled with the magic of Hochfeld’s vast horizons. This land has a long and layered history, from the Bantu migrations of the 17th century and the Herero settlement—where the name Omba Imue (meaning one giraffe) originated—to German colonization and the later arrival of Afrikaner farmers. The farm Irene itself has passed through the hands of several families, each leaving their mark on the homestead, including original clay-brick walls and artifacts still present today.
In 1963, Christiaan and Johanna Breedt purchased Irene and expanded the homestead. Their son Chris continued the legacy until 2011, after which Johan Grobler introduced wildlife farming. In 2023, the farm found new custodians in Doors and Martie Krüger. Martie, a Namibian citizen with deep roots in the Sandveld, has brought Irene into a new era with warmth and purpose.
Today, the renovated homestead rests on 2,015 hectares of pristine wilderness, with boreholes sustaining both the home and the land’s wildlife. A memorial beneath the camel thorn trees honors Martie and James’s parents—whose ashes now rest within the Kalahari sand. Irene remains a sanctuary where family, history, and nature converge.
Explore the full range of species you might encounter during your stay. From elusive mammals to vibrant birdlife, Irene Game Ranch is home to remarkable biodiversity. Download our bird and mammal lists to start spotting!
Travel to Okahandja and continue north on the B1 toward Otjiwarongo. After about 10 km, turn right onto the C31 toward Hochfeld. Continue for 116 km to reach Hochfeld. Note: The first 20 km is tarred road, followed by 96 km of gravel—road conditions may be poor, drive carefully. At Hochfeld, go straight through the intersection. After 33 km, on a sharp right bend, look for the Irene signpost on your right and enter through the gate. Drive approximately 4.3 km on the farm road to a second gate with an Irene sign. Go through the gate, turn left, and drive along the game fence for about 1.5 km to the homestead. Enter through the gate next to the large zinc shed.
Travel east from Windhoek on the B6 toward Gobabis. After approximately 51 km, you’ll see Hosea Kutako International Airport on your left. Continue for another 50 km past the airport and turn left onto the C29 Omitara road. The tar road becomes gravel after about 15 km. After 60 km, you’ll reach a junction — turn left onto the C30 toward Hochfeld. Drive for 7 km, then turn right onto the D2148. Continue for 42 km until you reach a T-junction. Turn left onto the C31 and drive for 4.8 km. Turn left at the Irene signpost and enter through the gate. Drive approximately 4.3 km on the farm road to a second gate with an Irene sign. Go through the gate and turn left, then follow the game fence for about 1.5 km until you reach the homestead. Enter through the gate next to the large zinc shed.