Ongava is a luxury bushcamp on a vast private reserve offering a homely atmosphere, an active waterhole and the chance to track rare black and white rhinos. With luxurious tented rooms and an intimate, rustic atmosphere, Ongava is the perfect base for an exclusive exploration of the private reserve and Etosha National Park nearby.
Awarded: Bronze
Location
The camp is on the private 300km² Ongava Reserve bordering the south side of Etosha National Park. Within a mopane woodland and overlooking a waterhole, Ongava benefits from all the wildlife that Etosha offers including both black and white rhino. The camp shares the reserve with its three sister properties.
Rooms
Eight Meru-style tents offer views of the waterhole from their raised positions on wooden decks. Passing a large veranda and through double wooden doors, you’ll find the comfortable interiors. There’s a double bed, a sofa and a writing desk. Behind the bed lies a concealed cupboard and bathrooms include secluded outdoor showers.
Communal Areas
The main area is full of soft furnishings and colourful fabrics with tall beamed roofs and cosy, warm interiors. The space compromises a bar, lounge and adjoining dining room where both individual wooden tables and long communal tables are set out. Outside, a swimming pool and patio boast relaxed views of the floodlit waterhole, and a fire pit makes the perfect spot for pre or post dinner drinks.
Activities
Take both day and night guided drives within the reserve where there may be an opportunity to track rhino on foot. Only day drives are available within Etosha National Park and guests can take guided vehicle safaris or self-drive through the park to explore the wildlife in their own time. Gentle walking safaris are an immersive way to discover the bush and learn about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides. There are numerous hides around camp but one, in particular, sits right at the front of camp by the waterhole, perfect for quiet early morning viewing.
Fully inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A beautiful season to visit as the landscape transforms into many shades of green. Great birding with migratory species present. This period also marks calving season with the birth of many young animals. Wildlife is however well spread out and the vegetation thick, making game viewing difficult.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average 18°C/64°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A beautiful season to visit as the landscape transforms into many shades of green. Great birding with migratory species present. This period also marks calving season with the birth of many young animals. Wildlife is however well spread out and the vegetation thick, making game viewing difficult.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average 18°C/64°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A beautiful season to visit as the landscape transforms into many shades of green. Great birding with migratory species present. This period also marks calving season with the birth of many young animals. Wildlife is however well spread out and the vegetation thick, making game viewing difficult.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average 18°C/64°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
A beautiful season to visit as the landscape transforms into many shades of green. Great birding with migratory species present. This period also marks calving season with the birth of many young animals. Wildlife is however well spread out and the vegetation thick, making game viewing difficult.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average a chilly 16°C/61°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate. This is the best safari period in Etoshia as the wildlife becomes more concentrated around the few remaining water holes. The thinning vegetation also makes it easy to spot game.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 25°C/73°F, while nice temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate. This is the best safari period in Etoshia as the wildlife becomes more concentrated around the few remaining water holes. The thinning vegetation also makes it easy to spot game.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 25°C/73°F, while nice temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate. This is the best safari period in Etoshia as the wildlife becomes more concentrated around the few remaining water holes. The thinning vegetation also makes it easy to spot game.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 25°C/73°F, while nice temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate. This is the best safari period in Etoshia as the wildlife becomes more concentrated around the few remaining water holes. The thinning vegetation also makes it easy to spot game.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 25°C/73°F, while nice temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be fantastic during September and October; temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 33°C/91°F, it is not uncommon for much warmer days than this, with temperatures occasionally over 40°C/104°F. Morning temperatures average a surprisingly chilly 16°C/61°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be fantastic during September and October; temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 33°C/91°F, it is not uncommon for much warmer days than this, with temperatures occasionally over 40°C/104°F. Morning temperatures average a surprisingly chilly 16°C/61°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
The start of the wet season, with the occasional short sharp thunderstorm.
Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 33°C/91°F midday, it is not uncommon for much warmer days than this, with temperatures occasionally over 40°C/104°F. Morning temperatures are more pleasant with an average minimum of 18°C/64°F
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
The start of the wet season, with the occasional short sharp thunderstorm.
Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 33°C/91°F midday, it is not uncommon for much warmer days than this, with temperatures occasionally over 40°C/104°F. Morning temperatures are more pleasant with an average minimum of 18°C/64°F
Like the rest of Namibia, the Etosha has very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the waterholes whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Explore Etosha National Park Properties
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Anderssons at Ongava
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Etosha Safari Lodge
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Little Ongava
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Little Ongava is a slice of five-star safari luxury within an intimate setting boasting incredible panoramic views of the private reserve it occupies. With just three ..
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Ongava Lodge
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Ongava Lodge is perched on a hillside with uninterrupted views of Etosha National Park and the Ongava Game Reserve. Surrounded by Cacti and mopane trees, the lodge is a ..
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Onguma Tented Camp
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Onguma Tented Camp is a relaxed retreat isolated in the Onguma Game Reserve. A truly wild camp, Onguma boasts beautifully furnished tents, excellent food, modern décor ..
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Onguma The Fort
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Overlooking the sparse Etosha Pans, Onguma The Fort stays true to its name. With a Morrocan inspired design, the hotel truly resembles a fort and offers guests all the ..
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Safari House
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Safari House is a traditional Namibian farmhouse on a private reserve close to Etosha National Park. With just three rooms which can be booked on an exclusive basis and a ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
