Ongava Lodge

Ongava Lodge is the reserve’s classic safari stay, sitting between the private villas of Horizon by Ongava and the closer-to-nature tented feel of Encounter by Ongava.

There are 14 rock-and-thatch chalets, including 13 standard ones and one family chalet. Each has an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and private deck. Enjoy wide views across the plains from the main lounge and dining areas, where a busy waterhole often draws wildlife in to drink.

You can head out on guided game drives across Ongava Private Game Reserve, home to rhino, lion, antelope and endemic black-faced impala. And visit Etosha National Park on full- or half-day, spending time around the salt pan, springs and wildlife-rich plains.

Guided nature walks are also available seasonally with the chance to approach the reserve’s resident white rhino on foot. This is one of the more memorable ways to experience Ongava: moving slowly through the bush, learning how to read tracks, wind and animal behaviour.

Meals are served in the thatched dining area or out on the deck beneath the stars. We especially like ending the day here with a sundowner, watching the light change across the plains before dinner.