Just 15 minutes from Etosha's eastern gate, this laid-back camp is tucked into a dry riverbed in Onguma Reserve's tamboti forest. The property strikes a balance between traditional safari charm and modern comfort – think thatched bungalows with air-con, a swimming pool for afternoon dips, and a very impressive wine cellar. The open-sided main area overlooks an active waterhole where wildlife congregates, particularly in drier months. With its own 34,000-hectare private reserve to explore alongside easy access to Etosha, it's a practical base that doesn't try too hard to impress.
Built from timber, stone and thatch, the open-sided main lodge is refreshingly simple. High ceilings create airflow whilst the lounge, restaurant and bar overlook a small waterhole frequented by plains game and occasionally, lions. Landscape-inspired artwork adorns the walls, and there's a library and curio shop for browsing. Three-course meals are often served under the stars, with a crackling fire pit for post-dinner storytelling and a pool for daytime R&R.
11 thatched bungalows line the dry Omuramba Owambo riverbed, ranging from Heritage bungalows to larger Explorer versions and three family-friendly bush suites. Each is built on a stone base with a private veranda, dark wood furnishings and campaign chairs for wildlife watching. En-suite bathrooms have large walk-in showers and there's aircon too – both a relief after dusty game drives. The secluded Honeymoon bungalow adds an outdoor shower and bathtub. Mosquito nets, bush mini-bars and tea-making facilities are standard.
The reserve offers guided interpretive walks focusing on the smaller wildlife, including pygmy falcons and violet wood hoopoes. Sunset drives explore Onguma's 34,000 hectares, where four of the Big Five roam (buffalo are absent). Most guests opt for self-drive safaris into Etosha, though guided drives are available. For quiet afternoons, a water-level photographic hide offers unobserved wildlife viewing. Bush dinners and boma evenings can be arranged, whilst the Dream Cruiser, a custom-built Land Cruiser complete with rooftop sleeping area, offers adventurous overnight stays.
The wine cellar is a genuine surprise! Pop in to browse, taste and select a bottle to pair with dinner.
Request an early breakfast (they'll happily oblige) to beat the crowds into Etosha when the gates open at 6:15.
The camp is unfenced, so children under seven aren't permitted, and those under 10 can't join game drives.
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11 nights from $6.8K per person
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12 nights from $9.3K per person
8 nights from $6.3K per person
10 nights from $8K per person
Onguma Forest Camp can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Namibia trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Namibia trips featuring Onguma Forest Camp or get advice and suggestions from one of our Namibia specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Onguma Forest Camp start from around $230, or US$230, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A safari wonderland, where plentiful waterholes amid the salt pans attract even more plentiful game.
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