Lodge Mid-Range

Ongava Safari Lodge

(4-STAR)
Etosha National Park Classic, rustic-luxe African safari style

About the Lodge

Ongava Safari Lodge is located along the Southern boundary of Etosha National Park where rugged dolomite hills meet the dry landscapes of northern Namibia and one of the country's most amazing private wildlife reserves. The lodge covers an area of 30,000-hectares with many wildlife animals, dramatic views, excellent guiding and pioneering conservation work. Ongava Safari Lodge offers a compelling experience as guests can access both the private reserve and Etosha National Park inclusive of spacious rock-and-thatch chalets, swimming facilities, panoramic viewing decks, a waterhole and a dedicated wildlife hide.

Ongava safari lodge extends beyond luxury accommodation to a wildlife sanctuary with rhinoceros conservation. Today, the lodge is home to rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and many other species. Ongava Safari Lodge is found within Ongava Private Game Reserve immediately south of Etosha National Park in Namibia's northern-central region.

Ongava lies among rocky hills and dolomite formations creating an elevated landscape with wide views across the bush. Ongava Lodge itself is built along a rocky ridge in the Ondundozonanandana dolomite hills.

Ongava Safari Lodge consists of 14 spacious en-suite chalets constructed from natural rock and thatch to blend with the surrounding environment. The design is uniquely African without sacrificing contemporary comfort. The rock-and-thatch architecture gives the rooms a strong sense of place, while air conditioning and en-suite facilities provide the practical comforts expected from a high-end safari lodge. The chalets are arranged to take advantage of the elevated terrain and surrounding landscape rather than creating a dense hotel-like environment.

Architecture and Design

Ongava Safari Lodge is built with natural stone, thatch, timber and earthy colours so as to connect the buildings with the surrounding landscape. The main areas sit along the ridge and provide views over the surrounding bushveld. It comprises of indigenous materials that are combined to bring out the traditional bush architecture with contemporary design. At Ongava Lodge, however, the original rock-and-thatch aesthetic remains particularly evocative. The lodge includes a central dining area that is one of the most attractive spaces.

It opens onto two viewing decks overlooking a waterhole, allowing guests to combine meals and wildlife observation. Rhino and other animals may visit the waterhole, forming the possibility of seeing wildlife without leaving the lodge. There is a waterhole in front of the main lodge attracting many wildlife animals which get here to break their thirst.

The lodge includes the Ongava Wildlife Hide where guests get a more intimate perspective on the reserve's wildlife. They are required to settle into a fixed viewing position and wait for wildlife to approach. This type of experience can be particularly rewarding for photographers because it allows longer periods of observation and more predictable framing. It offers travelers a chance to encounter animals closer.

The hide is also a reminder that safari is not simply about driving around looking for animals. Sometimes the most memorable encounters happen when you stop, become quiet and allow the wildlife to come to you. It offers travelers a chance to encounter animals closer.

Swimming Pool

Ongava Safari Lodge includes a swimming pool where guests can cool down and relax between activities. The pool forms part of the lodge's leisure facilities while still retaining the wilderness atmosphere.

Wildlife animals you can watch while at the deck of Ongava Safari Lodge include; White rhinoceros, Black rhinoceros, African elephant, Lion, Leopard, Giraffe, Zebra, Oryx, Kudu, Warthog, many antelope, Numerous bird species.

Featured Amenities at the Lodge

  • Rock and Thatch Chalets
  • Swimming Pool
  • Sundowner & Wildlife-Viewing Decks
  • Waterhole Views
  • Wildlife & Photography Hide
  • Dining & Social Areas
  • Well-Equipped En-Suite Bathrooms
  • In-Room Comforts
  • Guest Convenience Amenities
  • Wellness & Massage
  • Discovery Centre

Rooms & Amenities

14 Rooms / Tents
14 rock-and-thatch en-suite chalets perched on a dolomite hill. Rooms offer private wooden viewing decks, air conditioning, mosquito-netted beds, indoor and outdoor showers, and double hand basins.
14 rock-and-thatch en-suite chalets perched on a dolomite hill. Rooms offer private wooden viewing decks, air conditioning, mosquito-netted beds, indoor and outdoor showers, and double hand basins, En-suite with flush toilets, double washbasins, indoor walk-in showers and private outdoor showers, Tea and coffee stations, room safe, desk, telephone, and hairdryers.

Included Amenities

  • Walking Sticks
  • Mosquito Net
  • Solar Charging
  • Rain Gear
  • Torch / Flashlight
  • First Aid Kit
  • In-Room Safe
  • Mini Bar / Fridge
  • Air Conditioning
  • Fan
  • Fireplace
  • Tea & Coffee Maker
  • Hairdryer