Onguma Tented Camp is a beguiling mixture of sophistication and relaxation; elegance and the earth. It is this intriguing combination and the attention to detail that makes it, the ultimate safari-chic accommodation in the Etosha National Park, in Namibia.
In the local Herero language, Onguma means, ‘the place you don’t want to leave’. With a stunning main building and seven tents providing private, exclusive accommodation; Onguma Tented Camp certainly lives up to its name.
An atmosphere of elegant dining prevails, complimented by the daily activities taking place around the watering hole; only ±60 meters away. The surrounding nature lends itself to long lazy afternoons, spent relaxing on the sofas in the lounge; while watching the wildlife pass by. And when things heat up; a gentle stroll to the pool; is all that is required. Sit and relax in the flowing waters; while enjoying a chilled drink. Alternatively, if a less strenuous activity is required; then relaxing on your patio while reading a good book; should provide you with all the exercise you may need.
The 7 x spacious tents at Onguma Tented Camp extend the u-shaped design, allowing for both privacy and fantastic views. Each Safari Tent has a bath as well as both an indoor and outdoor shower. Every comfort is attended to and the bush-chic styling ensures guests are cocooned in luxury. Such a romantic under-canvas camp.
Accommodation overlooks the waterhole
The main guest area includes a reception area, a comfortable lounge, a rim-flow swimming pool, a dining room, and a small safari shop; as well as an open fire pit to complement this classic camp. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests.
Like the bush where soft air blows against sharp thorns; Onguma Tented Camp is a study in contrasts. Textures such as stone, suede, linen, and steel; create a setting that is sleek and modern. But also inherently of the earth. Inspired by a photograph of an Oryx on Etosha’s Fisher’s Pan, the interior echoes the colors of its natural surroundings. Grey, charcoal, black, white, and creams. Together with a touch of muted or unexpectedly bright green; add sophistication and earthiness to the atmosphere.
Children 12 years and over are welcome at Onguma Tented Camp and pay the full adult rate for accommodation.
The Dream Cruiser – A Romantic Adventure Sleep-Out
The Dream Cruiser is Onguma’s newest and most unique under-the-stars sleep-out experience. This sleep-out in the wilderness of the reserve is on a custom-built Land Cruiser. It features a full bathroom on the lower deck and a bedroom with a lounge area on the upper deck.
You will arrive in time to enjoy sundowners and take a tour of your overnight accommodation. A night on the Dream Cruiser calls for al fresco picnic-style dining. This is delivered to you by the chef. For you to enjoy as the evening turns to night and the stars dance in all their glory. A ranger is on call via two-way radio. So, make the most of this time and relax in the safety and complete comfort of this unique space.
After a good night’s rest, you can enjoy morning tea/coffee with homemade rusks. Before being collected for breakfast at the lodge.
A night under the stars on the Dream Cruiser
Activities from Onguma Nature Reserve
Morning and afternoon game drives in the Etosha National Park are a highlight. Sunset drives are offered on the Onguma Nature Reserve. Interpretive bush walks depart in the early morning after full safety briefings. With instructions on what you should do if you encounter wildlife while on foot. Learn how to identify spoor and droppings and get close to birds and animals.
There is also the Onkolo Hide; which is at a waterhole. Therefore, you get incredible sightings of birds and animals coming to drink from the scarce water source. A photographer’s dream.
Etosha game drives
Conservation & Sustainability
Onguma Anti-poaching Unit (APU)
The biggest threat that wildlife currently faces is poaching. This is due to the high value of rhino horn, ivory, and many other animal products. As a result, Onguma has a well-trained, fully equipped Anti-Poaching Unit.
In 1993 Black Rhino numbers dropped by a staggering 96%. Namibia’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism decided to take matters into their own hands. And set up the ambitious Black Rhino Custodianship Program. To bring the world’s black rhino populations back from the brink.
Since then, all Black rhinos in Namibia are state-owned. The concept of Namibia’s Black Rhino Custodianship Program is that breeding populations of Black Rhino are relocated to a suitable habitat. Where the landholders are willing and able to undertake the responsibility of providing care and security to them. Onguma Game Reserve has been chosen to be one of these custodians. And they take their duty to the rhino and other wildlife very seriously. The Reserve is also home to White Rhino’s. Ensuring both species’ survival for future generations.
Visiting Onguma is not only about experiencing wildlife in a natural environment. But more importantly, it is about helping to protect it.
Social Responsibility
Strategic plans were made to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the Onguma Nature Reserve to benefit the local community. Along with several other important factors, the founder of Onguma foresaw that the major threat to sustainability would be hunger.
Therefore; Oshivelo Farming was founded in August 2012. This creates jobs on a large scale for the Oshivelo community. Oshivelo Farming currently employs 180 previously unemployed local people permanently. Of which 80% are women. Up to 100 additional people are also employed seasonally.
Getting to Onguma Tented Camp
Access by Air
We can arrange a private charter to Onguma Airfield where you will be collected. Or to Mokuti Airstrip. A transfer fee is payable for this transfer.
Access by Road
Coming from southern Namibia, follow the B1 direction North/Etosha. Turn left onto the C38. After 25km you will reach Onguma Nature Reserve’s entrance on the right-hand side. Just before Etosha’s Namutoni entrance gate. Follow the signs to Onguma Tented Camp on a dirt road.
Coming from western Namibia, you will leave Etosha at the von Lindequist Gate, Namutoni. Turn left almost immediately at the entrance to Onguma Nature Reserve. Follow the signs to Onguma Tented Camp on a dirt road.
Onguma Tented Camp Accommodation Rates
Safari Tents
Fully Inclusive Rate Per Person Sharing
N$ 8,970
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Rate Per Person Sharing
N$ 5,500
Single Supplement
N$ 1,840
Rates are valid from 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2024.
The fully Inclusive (FI) rate includes: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner (4 courses), Bar and Mini Bar (beers, local spirits, soft drinks, water, and house wines) 2 x activities per night stayed – Sundowner Drive (on Onguma Reserve) and Etosha AM Game Drive. Transfer from and to the Onguma airstrip, VAT, Social Development Levy, and NTB tourism levy.
Many self-drive clients prefer to use the Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast rates. As they will be using their vehicle for game drives, etc. Lunch packs can be arranged for you to take with you on your day’s adventure. Alternatively, arrange activities with the lodge on arrival.
The Dinner, Bed & Breakfast rate also includes transfer from and to the Onguma airstrip, VAT, Social Development Levy, and NTB tourism levy.
The above rates exclude the Rhino Conservation Levy of N$150 per person per night (subject to change). This levy is utilized exclusively to guard and protect the Rhino population in Onguma Nature Reserve.
Onguma Tented Camp Accommodation Package
Receive discounted rates on a 3-night dinner, bed, and breakfast package at Onguma Tented Camp.
Onguma Tented Camp 3-Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Package
Per Person Sharing for 3 nights
Safari Tents
N$ 13,143
The Rhino Levy is payable for all three nights. Add on as many or as few activities as you like.
Honeymoon Package
If booking 3 or more nights at Onguma we will include a Bush Dinner free of charge. Also, if a couple books a full body massage, you get an extra free scalp or foot massage to the value of N$525
Valid for couples who have been married in the last 6 months and provide a marriage certificate.
