Little Ongava

Perched ridgeline on the border of Etosha National Park with expansive views to the south, Little Ongava is an exclusive three-suite property and the most luxurious option within the private Ongava Reserve.

• The private plunge pools overlooking the plains
• The location within the private concession but near the national park, allowing for game drives in both

Located on the south side of Etosha National Park, the Ongava Reserve is a wildlife-rich private conservancy. Unlike at neighboring Etosha, game drives in Ongava are restricted to only guests staying within the Reserve (so the experience feels much more exclusive as there are far fewer vehicles). Safari vehicles are able to drive off road for animal viewings—unlike in the park where you’re restricted to the roads—and guests even have the opportunity to approach a rhino on foot. In addition to game drives within the reserve, guests of Ongava are able to experience Etosha National Park with their safari guide as the camp is just a 10 minute drive from the park gates.

Within the reserve, Little Ongava is the most luxurious stay. The camp is intimate and personal with just three suites, each with an expansive outdoor deck and plunge pool overlooking the plains. Rooms are lovely, with a classic, vintage safari feel, including thatched roofs, canopy beds and both indoor and outdoor showers. They’re also spread out—ensuring privacy—connected via an elevated wooden boardwalk to the main communal area. Here, meals are served and guests can enjoy the views, or help themselves to the property’s self-service coffee and cocktail bar.

While there is no spa on property, guests are able to enjoy treatments in their rooms or at neighboring Ongava Lodge. The Discovery Center, situated at Anderssons at Ongava (another lodge within the Reserve), is also worth a visit where you can learn more about the geology, animals and plants of Ongava, as well as the research being done at the adjoining Ongava Research Center.

Anyone interested in incorporating one stop for a more traditional safari experience within Namibia. Little Ongava is well suited for couples, but could work for families or as property takeover. Those wanting to add on significant safari time (or combine lodges) would be happier pairing Namibia with neighboring Botswana or South Africa.

2-3 Nights