Okonjima Private Nature Reserve

Pros & Cons

• One of the best places in Namibia to see leopards
• Pangolin sightings possible
• Excellent accommodations and activities
• Well-marked trails and expert guides
• Night drives and off-road driving possible
• Malaria-free reserve
• Can get crowded in high season
• Wild cheetahs no longer present
• Activities can be expensive

Wildlife

Okonjima began as a rehabilitation project for problem cats and cheetahs rescued from the captive trade. Cheetahs have since been phased out, but Okonjima is now one of the best places in Namibia to see leopard, brown hyena and Temminck’s ground pangolin. You’ll also encounter zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, greater kudu and numerous antelope species. More than 250 bird species have been recorded here.

Scenery

Okonjima is rehabilitated farmland, though you wouldn’t know it. It has a delightful mix of habitats for its growing wildlife population, including light and riverine woodland, dry savannah, acacia trees and rocky outcrops. The reserve headquarters sits high atop an escarpment with glorious views out over the reserve and beyond.

Activities

Okonjima has four self-guided hiking trails, ranging from 2.1km/1.3mi to 4.7km/2.9mi. Other activities, which usually cost extra, include leopard, rhino or pangolin tracking (pangolin tracking takes place on foot). You can also arrange a night drive, or a visit to the Carnivore Care and Information Centre to learn more about AfriCat’s work and see lion and cheetah in enclosures.

Weather & Climate

The weather and climate of Okonjima is similar to that of Windhoek, the capital city. More info:

• Weather & Climate – Windhoek

Best Time To Visit

Okonjima is best visited during the Dry season (May to October), particularly from June or July onward. Throughout this period, you can expect fine weather, good trail conditions and cool evenings. These months are also best for wildlife viewing, as the animals are more easily found close to water. Rain is possible, and hot weather almost guaranteed, any time during the Wet season (November to April). The rains turn the landscape green, and these months are best for birding. However, trails can be muddy and difficult to drive.

Getting There

Most travelers arrive in Okonjima by road. The reserve is about 220km/140mi from either Etosha National Park (to the north) or Windhoek, the capital (to the south). The drive in either direction takes around 2½ hours* along paved roads. Inside the reserve, you’ll find well-maintained tracks that are a mix of sand, dirt and gravel. It may also be possible to fly into Okonjima’s airstrip if you’re staying at one of the luxury lodges or camps.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.

Health & Safety

Please read our malaria and vaccinations page for Namibia, and our general ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ below for more info:

• Malaria & Vaccinations – Namibia
• Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Want To Visit Okonjima NR?

31 Okonjima Safaris

• Okonjima Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Okonjima