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Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve

the leopard is one of the more elusive felids

guided leopard tracking activities

opportunities to see them at close quarters

home to a variety of wildlife species

from the diminutive damara dik dik antelope

as well as this impala...

solitary by nature ..

a multitude of bird species have been recorded here.

...and both Burchell's and Hartmann's mountain Zebra.

chalets are designed to bring more of the outdoors in

quiet moments on your private verandah ...

some of the best scenery at any time of the day

relaxation, pampering and total surrender

black silhouette of a giraffe at sunset

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Nature offers no guarantees, not even at Okonjima, but the odds of spotting leopard here are exceptionally high.

So successful are sightings that the reserve has become almost synonymous with leopard photography.

Spread across 220km2 within Namibia’s scenic Central Highlands, Okonjima Nature Reserve has long been a sanctuary for endangered big cats – especially leopard and cheetah. Once persecuted by local cattle farmers, leopards roam free within the reserve, with the long-term aim of releasing them back into the wild.

The work is underpinned by the established AfriCat Foundation, which spearheads the conservation of carnivores throughout Namibia. As well as the big cats for which Okonjima is famed, nowadays those carnivores include the nocturnal brown hyena, aardvark and pangolin.

A highlight of a stay at Okonjima is to head out first thing in search of leopard or – as the sun dips below the horizon – to seek out the creatures of the night. With many of the animals radio-collared, tracking them is relatively straightforward, and with leopard largely habituated to the presence of humans, photographic opportunities here are almost unparalleled.

While big cats are very much the focus of these drives, that’s not to undermine the other species here, among them Hartmann’s mountain zebra, blue wildebeest and giraffe, as well as numerous antelope, from oryx to the diminutive Damara dik-dik.

Birdlife is impressive, too: eagles and vultures; korhaan and sandgrouse; colourful shrikes, waxbills and bee-eaters. Even the most experienced birder will be reaching for their binoculars to seek out specials such as Carp’s tit, greater scimitar hoopoe or the Damara rock runner.

To stay at Okonjima – and there is a range of excellent accommodation options – is to experience this unique setting at leisure. Exploring on foot, either with a guide or on a self-guided trail, simply adds to the sense of place.

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Safaris visiting Okonjima

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Itinerary image

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.

US$6,320 - US$10,600 per person

Itinerary image

Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

US$3,430 - US$4,420 per person

Itinerary image

Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.

US$4,890 - US$5,990 per person

Itinerary image

Namaqua Chameleon Self-drive

12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A classic 12-night self-drive adventure around the highlights of eastern and northern Namibia taking in Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha and a final stop at Okonjima. Comfortable lodges and great value.

US$2,980 - US$5,330 per person

Itinerary image

Brown Hyena Self-drive

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The perfect trip for those who want to mix the adventure and freedom of a self-drive with some of our favourite luxury camps in Namibia and a great mix of activities.

US$8,150 - US$10,280 per person

Itinerary image

Rock Agama Self-drive Safari

9 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Big on experience and light on time, this self-drive trip packs in Namibia’s highlights while staying in a selection of luxury camps and lodges for an unforgettable 10 days.

US$6,200 - US$13,380 per person

View all safaris

Most recent reviews of our safaris to Okonjima

Click below to browse all 688 reviews from Okonjima Nature Reserve. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.


99%
688 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
658
Good
27
Average
2
Poor
2
Terrible
0
A & K from Bolton

Arrived 9 Oct 2024, 15 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"We had a great time. We had a great time. Partly due to booking late in the d …" Read A & K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

S & S from Alaska

Arrived 30 Sep 2024, 12 nights

"Our October Namibia Trip"

"We really had a great trip. We saw much more wildlife than we had even dreamed …" Read S & S ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs B from Wraysbury

Arrived 2 Sep 2024, 24 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"We can truly say this.. holiday was one of if not the best we have ever had …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Alan and Di from Chippy

Arrived 6 Oct 2024, 17 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"We have had a wonderful trip with Expert Africa. …" Read Alan and Di’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mike & Dawn from Bolton

Arrived 15 Sep 2024, 12 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"An enjoyable holiday ... …" Read Mike & Dawn’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs R from Syderstone

Arrived 11 Aug 2024, 23 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"Outstanding! We can’t wait to go again! You do a fantastic job! …" Read Mr & Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs J. from Chester

Arrived 21 Sep 2024, 17 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"... another fantastic trip to this magical country. …" Read Mr & Mrs J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs S from E Sussex

Arrived 24 Sep 2024, 23 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"speed of their response and action was first class - why we keep using them ! …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs L from Gloucester

Arrived 28 Sep 2024, 14 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"a very special time in Namibia - enjoyed excellent food and beautiful rooms .. …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs C from Gloucester

Arrived 22 Sep 2024, 17 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"...fabulous trip to Namibia. I would certainly use Expert Africa again ... …" Read Mr & Mrs C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Okonjima Nature Reserve reviews

Where to stay in Okonjima

Our suggestions for safari camps in Okonjima Nature Reserve


Okonjima Plains Camp

Okonjima Plains Camp

Plains Camp is the most economical option on the Okonjima Reserve, where big cats can often be seen at close quarters, with great photographic opportunities.


95% (407 reviews)
Okonjima Bush Camp

Okonjima Bush Camp

Roomy chalets, personal service and great food make Okonjima Bush Camp a comfortable base from which to explore the Okonjima Reserve.


97% (266 reviews)
Okonjima Villa

Okonjima Villa

Okonjima Villa is the most exclusive place to stay on Okonjima, offering luxury, privacy, flexibility and fantastic wildlife-watching opportunities.


100% (15 reviews)
Okonjima Bush Suite

Okonjima Bush Suite

Okonjima Bush Suite is an exclusive, luxurious two-bedroom retreat with a private guide and chef, offering some great photo opportunities when tracking predators.


100% (7 reviews)

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Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Okonjima

This is their success for sightings in Okonjima Nature Reserve. Click on a species for more detail. How we work this out.


Oryx

97% success

Giraffe

97% success

Zebra

96% success

Leopard

94% success

Wildebeest

72% success

Brown Hyena

63% success

Eland

54% success

Sable antelope

48% success

White Rhino

44% success

Pangolin

20% success

Aardvark

8% success

Spotted Hyena

7% success

When to go to Okonjima Nature Reserve

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Okonjima in Namibia


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namibia in January

January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.

Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
  • Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namibia in February

February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.

Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namibia in March

March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.

Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
  • Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namibia in April

Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.

With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.

  • Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
  • Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
  • Migrant birds have started to leave
  • Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namibia in May

By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.

Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.

May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
  • Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
  • Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
  • Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namibia in June

Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.

Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.

Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.

  • Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
  • Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
  • “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
  • Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
  • Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namibia in July

Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.

As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).

  • Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
  • Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
  • The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Namibia in August

August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.

It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.

Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.

  • Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
  • Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
  • Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namibia in September

September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.

In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.

  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
  • Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
  • Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
  • High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namibia in October

Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.

In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.

  • Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
  • Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
  • The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
  • It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
  • Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namibia in November

November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.

Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.

  • A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
  • With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
  • Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
  • Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
  • Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namibia in December

December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!

Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.

Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.

  • Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
  • Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
  • A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
  • Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
  • Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Okonjima Nature Reserve: In detail

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Just south of Otjiwarongo, in central Namibia, Okonjima started off as a guest farm about 25 years ago, around the same time that the AfriCat Foundation was set up to here to help conserve some of Namibia’s threatened carnivores.

Since then, Okonjima’s offering to guests has broadened into several camps, all within a landscape of rolling hills and grassy plains – which is now known as the Okonjima Nature Reserve. A stay in one of the camps within this 220km2 reserve usually focuses mostly on Namibia’s big cats, with excellent opportunities to learn about them, and to view them at close quarters.

Now the Okonjima Reserve includes a fenced central core, from which the predators are excluded. Here you’ll find the Okonjima Plains Camp, the Okonjima Bush Camp and the Okonjima Bush Suite. Outside of this, and surrounding it on all sides, is the reserve proper – where there’s plenty of free-roaming natural game, and this is where the Okonjima Villa is located.


History of Okonjima

Going back to the 1890’s and colonial South West Africa, Okonjima was used by the German military. Due to its relative high altitude, in the area, it was apparently free of the African Horse Sickness and therefore it was a good place to rest their horses. From the early 1920s Okonjima was used as a cattle farm and in 1970 Val and Rose Hanssen bought the farm, to breed and farm Brahman and Jersey cattle. Throughout the time that cattle were kept on the farm, loses of stock to predators, particularly leopards, caused a strain on the finances.

Okonjima’s relationship with Namibia’s big cats did not start too favourably, as livestock losses to predators resulted in them being actively persecuted. However, herein developed an interest to further understand the habits and behaviour of Namibia’s big cats, particularly leopards.

The tourism element to Okonjima had humble beginnings: it started in 1986 as an overnight stop for travellers between Etosha and Windhoek. From here it grew, they began to offer bird watching experiences, trails demonstrating skills of the Bushman and baited leopard viewing. They also raised a cheetah cub called Chinga, discovered in a cage at an auction, which would appear on the lawn at afternoon tea, and allow visitors to stroke it. The farm was very well run by the Hanssen family, and gradually word of Okonjima’s carnivores, and their work with them, began to spread. By 1992 Okonjima was a ‘highlight’ on any visitor’s trip around Namibia.

In 1993 Val and Rose’s three children; Wayne, Donna and Rosalea Hanssen purchased the farm from their parents and initially the reserve became home to cheetah and leopard rescued from conflict with livestock farmers. It continued to grow with further accommodation built to accommodate the increase in visitors.

The AfriCat Foundation was born in the same year, in order to support the conservation and research efforts on the reserve. This is a non-profit organisation set up to conserve and protect Namibia’s threatened cheetah, leopard and other wild carnivores. Now it is renowned for long-term conservation of Namibia’s carnivores, through community support and education, rehabilitation and human-wildlife conflict mitigation.

Okonjima is still home to and run by the Hanssen family.

Okonjima’s fauna and flora

The predators of Okonjima
Namibia is home to over 20% of the world’s cheetah population – the largest concentration in the world. Since 1993, AfriCat has rescued over 1,000 cheetahs and leopards from Namibian farmland, returning over 85% of these animals to the wild.

This large reserve enables predators brought to the reserve, which may have been orphaned or removed from the wild at an early age, to live independently and to gain the experience that they need to return to the wild. The Okonjima Reserve provides a safe environment for this and often the animals are radio collared, so that they can be monitored closely. There are a few cheetah that over the years have not developed the skills to live independently and these are cared for within the AfriCat welfare programme. Also present within the AfriCat welfare programme are leopard and lion.

As well as cheetah and leopard, other predators present on the reserve are wild dog, brown hyena, African wildcat, honey badger, caracal, aardwolf, bat-eared fox and black-backed jackal.

Birding in Okonjima
With over 250 species of birds recorded at Okonjima, during a stay of just two or three days one can tick off many tens of species or even into three figures with a keen eye. Amongst these are many species of interest, from the magnificent Verreaux’s eagle owl that can weigh over 3kg, to the tiny pearl-spotted owlet weighing only 100g. The red-crested korhaan is relatively common on the reserve as well as three species of sandgrouse; Namaqua, Burchell’s and double-banded. Even around the camps one can expect to see smaller but no less eye-catching birds, such as the paradise flycatcher, the violet eared waxbill, the crimson-breasted shrike and the southern masked weaver.

Other wildlife in Okonjima
Although the focus is normally very much on looking for predators, on our trips to Okonjima the guides were informative and we stopped to watch oryx, giraffe and mountain zebra. We also have had superb sightings of the normally very shy and diminutive Damara dik-dik – one of Africa’s smallest antelope.

Activities at Okonjima

The activities on the Okonjima Reserve are the same regardless of which lodge or villa you stay in there. The choices are usually:

Guided nature trails on foot at Okonjima
Guests staying at one of the lodges on the reserve have the opportunity to embark on guided walk through the plentiful nature reserve in search of flora and fauna you may miss from a safari vehicle. Okonjima monitors and carries out research into the brown hyena and the pangolin, so if you are very lucky you may come across one of these more elusive species or at least learn about them from your knowledgable guide.

Games drives within Okonjima
From game-viewing vehicles, guests have the opportunity to radio-track leopard, spotted hyena or wild dog. On a visit in July 2014 we successfully tracked leopard, cheetah and also wild dogs. Although the dogs were very shy, the leopard and cheetah seemed unperturbed by our presence; resulting in some fantastic photo opportunities! We were fortunate in our successes, but in a reserve of this size bear in mind that sightings can never be guaranteed. If staying on the reserve, after dinner you are also invited to take part in a night drive on the reserve.

The Okonjima Nature Reserve no longer acts as a release site for former captive cheetahs, therefore cheetah tracking is no longer offered as an activity.

Walking at Okonjima
Within the fenced core of the reserve, where predator densities are much lower, there are several marked walking trails of up to 8km. Whilst walking, keep an eye out for the abundant bird life and for the antelope species that roam free here. The guided ‘Bushman Trail’ is an easy going walk in which guests experience a day in the live of a bushman and learn how the San adapted to survive in the harsh Namibian environment; from setting up their homesteads to hunting for food.

Wildlife conservation, the community and tourism at Okonjima

Tourism underpins how the conservation efforts and rehabilitation of animals is funded at Okonjima. Every guest who visits or stays on the reserve is indirectly contributing to this important work. As well as contributing to the beneficial effect on the natural environment Okonjima is also passionate about supporting the local community through tourism. The jobs created provide many opportunities to local people from catering staff to wildlife guides.

Map of Okonjima Nature Reserve

Choices for where to stay in Okonjima Nature Reserve


Okonjima Nature Reserve: Safaris


Showing 1-6 of 6
Name
Duration
Cost
Most popular
Itinerary image

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.

US$6,320 - US$10,600 per person

Itinerary image

Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

US$3,430 - US$4,420 per person

Itinerary image

Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.

US$4,890 - US$5,990 per person

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Namaqua Chameleon Self-drive

12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A classic 12-night self-drive adventure around the highlights of eastern and northern Namibia taking in Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha and a final stop at Okonjima. Comfortable lodges and great value.

US$2,980 - US$5,330 per person

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Brown Hyena Self-drive

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The perfect trip for those who want to mix the adventure and freedom of a self-drive with some of our favourite luxury camps in Namibia and a great mix of activities.

US$8,150 - US$10,280 per person

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Rock Agama Self-drive Safari

9 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Big on experience and light on time, this self-drive trip packs in Namibia’s highlights while staying in a selection of luxury camps and lodges for an unforgettable 10 days.

US$6,200 - US$13,380 per person

Showing 1-6 of 6

Lodges & safari camps in Okonjima

Below are the main options of where to stay on the Okonjima Reserve, each within 5-10km of each other. Talk to us about the differences between them and which would suit you best.


Showing 1-4 of 4
Name
Traveller's rating
No. of reviews
Okonjima Plains Camp

Okonjima Plains Camp

Plains Camp is the most economical option on the Okonjima Reserve, where big cats can often be seen at close quarters, with great photographic opportunities.


95% (407 reviews)
Okonjima Bush Camp

Okonjima Bush Camp

Roomy chalets, personal service and great food make Okonjima Bush Camp a comfortable base from which to explore the Okonjima Reserve.


97% (266 reviews)
Okonjima Villa

Okonjima Villa

Okonjima Villa is the most exclusive place to stay on Okonjima, offering luxury, privacy, flexibility and fantastic wildlife-watching opportunities.


100% (15 reviews)
Okonjima Bush Suite

Okonjima Bush Suite

Okonjima Bush Suite is an exclusive, luxurious two-bedroom retreat with a private guide and chef, offering some great photo opportunities when tracking predators.


100% (7 reviews)
Showing 1-6 of 4
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Videos from Okonjima Nature Reserve

Watch these videos to learn more about Okonjima Nature Reserve


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