Reviews of Okaukuejo Camp
(83%) From 636 travellersThey do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa.
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The update accommodation is really good
Apart from one officious member of staff in the reception office our overall experience was very good indded. The new accommodation was on a par with or better than the other lodges. The temporary restaurant was fine though I am not sure that the same buffet every night would be suitable if staying longer than we did.
The water hole is rightly regarded as the main attraction and provided and endless procesion of activity and interest. We were told at several places later in the holiday that a big price hike is planned for this November. If so whilst this may be justfied by the improved facilities it will be a barrier for many.
Wonderful Water Hole at Okaukuejo
The new decor was excellent (and unexpected). Lovely shower, taps, bedding, etc. It was still unfinished (gravel being laid outside) - but this was really not a problem although I think the first night we were there was the first time dinner had been served in a marquee (during the renovations) and it was rather average - and cold.
The water hole was fantastic - but any chance of suggesting it be made a 'no-smoking zone' for future watchers?!
Generally we were thrilled by the wildlife we saw in the park.
This camp is not designed for travelers!
Our accomodation's location was outstanding! We overlooked the waterhole and could sit on our balcony in our pj's to watch the night time display! The watehole made our trip there! Unfortunately the neither the hot water, a.c., nor ceiling fans worked during our 3 day stay.
For self drive you need to be prepared BEFORE coming. Get groceries, stamps and information ahead of time in Outjo. Don't expect to be able to use the pay phone or find an array of groceries in camp. The little camp grocery store runs of bread by noon and has only a small assortment of food stuffs (like a US convenience store.) The snack bar closes early so one is forced to eat dinner in the pricey restaurant which only has a set price meal.
The telephone did not work with our Namibian phone cards, and 2 of the 3 phones were out of order. On a good note, the petrol station is open long hours and the petrol is normal prices. They don't take credit cards for gas but will write you a chit which you can pay at the grocery store. There is an internet site...expensive but available if you need it.
There is little information to be had on what areas animals are in, even in a general way. The staff at the information desk also handles reservations and I found them rather short tempered to the point of rudeness when asked for a map, etc.
Road conditions in Etosha are poor with miles of corrugation, unlike the rest of Namibian roads which are kept in good condition. In a small car this gets tiresome (no pun intended) after several 40 km forrays to hope to see animals.
This is Etosha's 100th annivesary year. There was much hubub to prepare for the events. They really need to look at how they can serve the visitors with food, groceries and pleasantly delivered services instead of building more to impress dignataries. I really would not go to Etosha's camp Okaukuejo again.
Okaukuejo Restcamp
The waterhole here was amazing especially when 50 elephant arrived at sundown.
Read more about the whole safariGood base to visit Etosha
Large and lacking in character but easy to get out on drives. Food was pretty awful and very little to buy in the store to be self catering.
Staff seemed not to care about service
But probably better than staying outside the park and evening waterhole was great
reliable waterhole
The camp is currently being renovated and bungalows upgraded to a high standard: building work continues. The opportunity to self cater is currently limited as the shop is not stocking so many supplies.
The signage in Etosha generally is being up graded but many of the drives are currently whited out: it woudl be easy to get lost!
The waterhole still remains a prime location with consistent and interesting game viewing.
Theer is now a 'daily parking' cost of 80 namibian dollars per person which replaces the game permit which had previously been paid at Andersson gate.
