Overview
Ongava Lodge is right next to Anderson’s Gate, the busiest entrance to one of Africa’s largest national parks, Etosha – sprawling across an area of 8,000 square miles. Ongava Lodge looks and feels a lot like a giant tree house clinging to the side of a small row of dolomite hills, the Ondundozonanandana Range, and boasting an unblemished view of the Ongava Game Reserve to the west and Etosha National Park to the north.
Ongava Lodge offers luxury accommodation in 14 rock-and-thatch en-suite chalets. For added exclusivity, adjacent Little Ongava boasts three private suites – each with a pool and a large decking area, plus a sala – an outside gazebo area. They also come complete with yoga mats, books and decanters of sherry and port, plus bathtubs and a separate lounge. In keeping with the rest of the property, the rooms are comprised of South African pine beams, green canvas screens and thatched canopies, all set on stilts. There are comfortable armchairs and large wardrobes, with thick ropes serving as trim at the tops and bottoms of walls, in place of traditional skirting. The balconies are large and sheltered from the hot African sun, with an outside shower. The bathrooms have double basins and a further vast shower.
There’s a decent-sized pool to cool off in when the mercury rises in the afternoon and then when dusk falls, the best place to view the private watering hole is either from the decking in front of the restaurant, or from the secluded hide that puts you in the thick of the action.
Why we like it
Great location right outside the Anderson gate of Etosha and on top of an escarpment with great views
Great waterhole with underground hide for incredible photo opportunities
lots of surprise visits by local residents like Porcupines while staying there
Having a braai (barbeque) while watching big game sip from the watering hole just 100ft away
Activities
Guided Safari Walks
Spa
Waterhole with hide
Game viewing
Stargazing
Photography
Swimming pool
Location
Namibia, Northern Etosha region