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Otjimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari

Otjimbondona Kalahari


22°47’39.1"S 18°8’15.9"E

About Otjimbondona Kalahari

On the edge of the Namibian Kalahari in a 30km² private reserve, Otjimbondona Kalahari is a luxurious lodge ...

... in a convenient location, some 81km south-east of Windhoek International Airport. With a surprising proliferation of game, a relaxed atmosphere and charming hosts it offers some gentle game viewing, as well as easy access to Namibia’s longest cave system at Arnhem.

Otjimbondona is a very different prospect from the majority of properties within reach of Windhoek’s airport. This truly is a destination that you might want to enjoy for more than one night, with a luxurious yet relaxing ambience that make it an ideal stop at the beginning or end of your Namibian adventure.

Our view

Otjimbondona is a very different prospect from the majority of properties within reach of Windhoek’s airport. This truly is a destination that you might want to enjoy for more than one night, with a luxurious yet relaxing ambience that make it an ideal stop at the beginning or end of your Namibian adventure.

Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Accommodation

4 villas

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Mountain biking

Mountain biking

Private activities

Private activities

Self-guided walking

Self-guided walking

Traveller reviews of Otjimbondona Kalahari

7 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


97%
7 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
6
Good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr & Mrs MfromCambridge

Arrived 2 Apr 2025, 1 nights

"Ultra exclusive"

"...staff were lovely and friendly, …" Read Mr & Mrs M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Smiths fromcheshire

Arrived 14 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Otjimbondona Kalahari review"

"Well worth the detour! …" Read Smiths ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs PfromReading

Arrived 26 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Otjimbondona Kalahari review"

"Great place to unwind after a hectic 3 weeks …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Flying DutchmenfromNL

Arrived 14 Feb 2024, 2 nights

"Otjimbondona Kalahari review"

"..tranquil place with lovely people. …" Read Flying Dutchmen’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr N.fromTeignmouth

Arrived 31 Aug 2023, 1 nights

"Otjimbondona Kalahari review"

"outstanding accommodation... first class …" Read Mr N.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

RMN and ATfromLondon

Arrived 21 Oct 2022, 2 nights

"An ideal introduction "

"This was an excellent place to start a trip …" Read RMN and AT’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr J.fromMakati

Arrived 6 May 2022, 2 nights

"An unexpected surprise!"

"lodge..gorgeous ..service..superb. Outstanding wildlife for a private reserve. …" Read Mr J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Otjimbondona Kalahari reviews

Safaris visiting Otjimbondona

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


Map

Brown Hyena Self-drive

14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
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.

Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 5 other areas

US$9,150 - US$10,090 per person

Read more about the Brown Hyena Self-drive

Otjimbondona Kalahari: Our full report

On the edge of the Namibian Kalahari in a 30km² private reserve, Otjimbondona Kalahari is a luxurious lodge ...

... in a convenient location, some 81km south-east of Windhoek International Airport. With a surprising proliferation of game, a relaxed atmosphere and charming hosts it offers some gentle game viewing, as well as easy access to Namibia’s longest cave system at Arnhem.

The prospect of a luxurious lodge relatively close to the airport that offered a tranquil stay away from the bustle of Windhoek city was appealing. And so much more so when we visited Otjimbondona in May 2018 to find our expectations surpassed.

Otjimbondona has just four villas, so even if the lodge is full you are guaranteed an exclusive and highly personalised stay. Although broadly similar in layout, each villa is individually designed and decorated: one inspired by the Namibian landscapes; another draws on the people of this vast and varied country. The open-plan design, glass front and tasteful, personalised décor make for a welcoming, warm and homely feel despite the villa’s vast size. On one side is a sitting area/kitchenette complete with satellite TV, wood burner, coffee machine, kettle, fridge/minibar and seating area. To the other is the bedroom/bathroom with 2 queen-size beds (which can be made up as a king), his and hers sinks, a deep, free-standing bath, a large glass-sided shower with stunning views of the bush and a separate toilet cubicle. Despite the open-plan layout, screens afford a good level of privacy.

Through a sliding-glass door at the front of each villa is a large deck complete with sunloungers, parasol and a private infinity plunge pool, while a little away from the villa is a separate private day bed. The deck looks over a small waterhole where the reserve’s wild residents occasionally come to drink, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Linking the villas to the main area or Manor House are sandy paths that wind through the Kalahari bush. From the closest villa there is also a hard pathway designed to make it more wheelchair accessible, although we suspect that being able to walk a few steps would still be necessary.

Otjimbondona’s manor house is the original farm building, inherited by owners Anita and Wilfred Slaney and since heavily restored and extended with the assistance of their architect son. The use of glass is again prevalent here, making the most of the views across the Kalahari, particularly from the open-plan dining area/lounge, which is fronted by decking around a narrow infinity pool. There is also a small curio shop, a cosy library and even a small gym here as well. In the evenings, before dinner, guests tend to congregate outside around the firepit for snacks and drinks while enjoying the sunset.

Activities here are very flexible and there is plenty of choice, though you could be forgiven for not wanting to leave the comfort of your villa. Wildlife watching either on foot or by vehicle is the norm, although note that there is only one game-viewing vehicle. You could also pedal a fat bike across the sand into the reserve or – if you have a penchant for enclosed spaces and bats – visit Arnhem Caves.

For a more sedate and altogether more relaxing experience there is a sauna at the lodge and you can arrange treatments (generally in your villa) by an in-house massage therapist from an extensive treatment menu. We understand that there are plans to create a more formal wellness village in due course.

Geographics

Location
Southern Namibia, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
Two nights is ideal to recover after an international flight or after your Namibia journey.
Directions
Otjimbondona lies close to Arnhem Cave, approx 81km south east of Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako Airport.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
On our visit in May 2018 we were impressed by the quality of food at Otjimbondona Kalahari; even the biscuits and bread were homemade (and delicious). We also thought that the menu offered a little more variety than is often found in safari camps. Where possible the ingredients are grown locally in the Slaney’s garden or on their farm.

Breakfast was the usual selection of cold meats, cheeses, cereals, fruit and yoghurt with hot dishes cooked to order. Our hosts graciously sat and chatted to us and were more than happy to accommodate us with a later sitting than other guests, who were in a rush to catch an early flight.

Due to arriving late and (sadly) having to depart relatively early we didn’t have time to enjoy the light lunch, which is usually a salad or something similar.

Dinner is typically a three-course meal. We enjoyed melon wrapped in Parma ham served with a fresh green salad and honey vinaigrette for starter. Our main course was pan-fried oryx fillet with Kalahari truffle cream sauce and seasonal vegetables from the garden. Dessert was a nut-encrusted ice-cream roll served with berries – a light and refreshing way to finish the meal.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Meals in your villa can be arranged with advanced notice.
Drinks included
Local drinks including bottled water are included in your stay here.

Special interests

Honeymoons
The villas at Otjimbondona are perfect for honeymooners. Indeed, with so many creature comforts you could be forgiven for hiding away in your villa and never venturing out on activities or to the main area to enjoy the fantastic Namibian hosting.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Namibia
Private villas & houses
By booking the four villas at Otjimbondona exclusively a family or small group can have the whole manor house and its 30km2 reserve to themselves. Perfect for a bit of R & R at the beginning or end of a Namibian adventure.
See ideas for Private villas & houses in Namibia
Luxury
Otjimbondona has clearly been built with a high attention to detail and the lodge exudes class. Vast villas, flexible activities and a relaxing atmosphere are the lodge’s hallmarks and with only four villas, your luxury escape in Namibia is sure to be exclusive too.
See ideas for Luxury in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children aged 12 and older are welcome, and younger children might be accepted on request.
Property’s age restrictions
Usually 12+
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
Otjimbondona has an undeniably adult feel and we think that families with young children would feel out of place here.
Notes
There are numerous raised decks and uneven walkways here. Couple this with the risk of wildlife in camp, and children staying here would need constant adult supervision.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Otjimbondona

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Otjimbondona Kalahari have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Wildebeest

100% success

Oryx

88% success

White Rhino

83% success

Giraffe

75% success

Meerkat

57% success

Eland

50% success

Zebra

40% success

Aardvark

0% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back up generator.
Communications
There is mobile reception at the lodge and free WiFi is available in the villa and the Manor House.
TV & radio
Each villa has a satellite TV
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
Each villa has flush toilets, hot and cold running water.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The closest doctor or hospital is in Windhoek, a drive of about 1hr 50min from the lodge.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
The owners live on site.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in villas and main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Mountain biking

    Mountain biking

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Self-guided walking

    Self-guided walking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Included
Money
Each villa has a small electronic safe.
Accepted payment on location
Visa and Mastercard are accepted for card payments, with South African rand and Namibian dollars accepted for cash payments.

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Otjimbondona Kalahari's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Otjimbondona.


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When to go to Southern Namibia

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Otjimbondona in Southern 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

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