Ongava Lodge, Etosha | Timbuktu Travel
Etosha

Ongava Lodge

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Voted No.1 in 2024 and No.2 in 2025 by Travel+Leisure

About Ongava Lodge

The original luxury lodge in Namibia, offering great wildlife experiences.
Perched on a hill, overlooking a watering hole, this lodge boasts excellent views and a variety of activities, including guided game drives into the southern part of Etosha National Park, plus walks and drives on their private Ongava Concession. With 14 thatched stone chalets, it is one of the larger lodges of this price bracket, with less emphasis on communal dining, although that is an option too for swapping stories. A secluded pool with loungers is a lovely spot to relax between safari activities, and their Hide is a great place for close encounters with thirsty wildlife at the watering hole.
From $750 per person/per night
Safari
14 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The main area is an elevated, open-sided thatched 'lapa' with split-level deck and lounge areas overlooking the watering hole. The outdoor pool is a short walk away, hidden from sight so you don't feel too spied on. Down by the watering hole is the Hide, which is a great spot for photographers to get close up shots of passing wildlife - you could easily spend all day there. Meals and drinks are enjoyed in the main dining area or on the deck under a canopy of stars.

The rooms

There are 14 air-conditioned thatched chalets, including one family chalet which comfortably sleeps four and comes with a private boardwalk entrance. The spacious bathrooms have inside and outdoor showers to make the most of the view. A large private deck faces out to the watering hole and to the wilderness beyond. The rustic chalets have large canopy beds covered in mosquito nets, tea/coffee facilities and ceiling fans to keep the Namibian heat out.

Activities

Game drives, self-driven or guided, can be enjoyed in Etosha National Park, as well as game drives on the private Ongava Concession - which is much quieter than the national park. The watering hole is a magnet for wildlife too, and viewing can take place from the comfort of your chalet, the central area and the Hide. Should you fancy it, Ongava offers guided walks on the private concession, rhino tracking being a particular favourite pastime for the more adventurous.

What you'll love

What you'll love

The state-of-the-art hide right next to the waterhole, which is a hive of activity - you may just hear lions slurping from inches away.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

You can choose to go on a game drive within the private Ongava Concession or the main Etosha Reserve. Tell your guide what you're hoping to see and they'll help you choose.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Should you be spending longer than two or three days at Ongava Lodge, their menu might become repetitive.

Namibia

Etosha

A safari wonderland, where plentiful waterholes amid the salt pans attract even more plentiful game.