The quintessential Namibian Safari at Ongava
The quintessential
Namibian Safari
at Ongava
From the back of a game viewer driving through Ongava Game Reserve, it is hard to imagine what the area must have looked like 30 years ago when it was still a cluster of unproductive cattle farms. Today it is a protected piece of land where antelope are plentiful and lion, rhino and elephant freely go about their business, all part of and contributing to a healthy, thriving biome. Thanks to a massive drive towards the reintroduction of wildlife, unwavering conservation efforts and tireless research – not to mention four exceptional lodges on the property – Ongava offers its guests a truly authentic safari experience in an African paradise.
Text Le Roux van Schalkwyk | Photographs Le Roux van Schalkwyk
From the Summer 2021/22 issue
Situated on the southern boundary of Etosha National Park, just west of Andersson Gate, the 30 000 ha Ongava was founded in 1991 when several families bought four cattle farms to turn it into a sanctuary for wildlife. Since then, Ongava has grown to become one of the premier safari destinations in Namibia.
Apart from offering guests the opportunity to visit the world- renowned Etosha, being situated literally on its doorstep, Ongava’s guided drives are unforgettable experiences. The reserve boasts more than 100 different mammal species, including anything from white and black rhino to the near- endemic Damara dik-dik, Koakoveld rock hyrax (dassie) and black-faced impala.
Setting the experience apart from others are Ongava’s guides. Their passion for the land and its wildlife is contagious as they share their understanding and love of the wild with guests. Their intimate knowledge is truly showcased when asked to also point out the smaller inhabitants of the reserve and to explain why white-browed sparrow-weavers build nests on the west side of the tree or how to find mopane worms in trees by looking for their droppings.
Rhino approaching on foot in the company of your trained guides is part of our quintessential African adventure.
Adding to the experience is Ongava’s four lodges, each with its unique atmosphere and style – a blend of luxurious seclusion integrated with the colours and textures of the Namibian bush.
ONGAVA LODGE
Overlooking the stunning landscape of the reserve from atop one of the foothills of the Ondundozonanandana range, Ongava Lodge offers luxury accommodation in 14 rock-and-thatch en-suite chalets. The deck of the main lounge and dining area overlooks a productive waterhole. Starlit dinners on the deck while watching a variety of wildlife visiting the waterhole below makes for the perfect end to an eventful day.
LITTLE ONGAVA
Namibia’s most luxurious and exclusive camp, Little Ongava is designed for privacy, luxury and closeness to its surroundings. Perched on the crest of a hill, each of the three suites as well as the dining area is graced with extraordinary views over the plains below. Designed to be an intimate camp, each spacious suite has its own plunge pool, en-suite bathroom, sala and outdoor shower. A private guide and vehicle ensures the best possible nature experience.
ONGAVA TENTED CAMP
Situated at the foot of a dolomite hill, nestled among the mopane trees, Ongava Tented Camp is a classic safari-style camp. Sleeping under the canvas of one of the eight large comfortable Meru-style tents and listening to the bush sounds harks back to the days of early adventurers. Cooling off in the swimming pool allows for a unique eye-level view of wildlife as they drink at the waterhole in front of the main area. Ongava Tented Camp is the best way to be completely immersed in the Namibian bush.
ANDERSSONS AT ONGAVA
Anderssons at Ongava was designed as a direct extension of the landscape using colours, textures and materials to connect guests more closely to their safari experience. It has seven contemporary luxury guest units and one family unit. Built using natural elements, the spacious suites reflect the environment while still giving guests the utmost luxury and comfort. Guests can relax on their own private viewing deck with a 180-degree panorama or have an eye-level game viewing experience watching wildlife at the camp waterhole from an underground photographic hide.
ONGAVA RESEARCH CENTRE
Situated at Anderssons at Ongava, the Ongava Research Centre is home to the reserve’s resident scientists and visiting researchers. Being home to some incredibly rare and endangered species, the mission of the research centre is to learn more about these animals and help protect them. The Ongava Research Centre’s Visitor Centre allows guests a glimpse into the cutting-edge research being done here.
As a result of the worldwide pandemic, Ongava was operating in “safe mode” during 2021, reopening only Ongava Lodge and Little Ongava to guests. However, as of 1 April 2022, all four camps will be open again. TNN
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