Onguma Private Game Reserve

Pros & Cons

• Excellent Etosha wildlife
• Upmarket lodges and tented camps
• Two budget campsites
• Quiet safari trails
• Low visitor numbers
• Night drives, nature walks and walking safaris possible
• Often booked out months in advance
• Long drive to central and western Etosha

Wildlife

Etosha’s wildlife wanders freely between the national park and Onguma, and you’ll most likely do the same. Watching animals in Onguma is a pleasure because there are relatively few vehicles. Possible sightings include lion, cheetah, elephant, rhino, zebra, giraffe, gemsbok and a large number of antelope species. These include wildebeest, greater kudu, red hartebeest and more. The birding in Onguma is also outstanding, especially in the Wet season (November to April).

Scenery

It can be hard to tell the difference between the landscapes of Etosha and those of Onguma. You can expect to spend your time in the reserve exploring arid plains dotted with waterholes, dry woodlands, salt pans and other classic Etosha scenery. The sunsets can be simply extraordinary, and the waterholes are a different world after dark, when rhinos often appear.

Activities

As in most private reserves and Etosha itself, guided game drives are the main activity in Onguma. If you are self-driving, you may be allowed to drive to and from your lodge or camp, but independent exploration of the reserve is not permitted. Guided night drives, nature walks and walking safaris may also be possible.

Weather & Climate

The weather and climate of Onguma is similar to that of Etosha National Park. More info:

• Weather & Climate – Etosha NP

Best Time To Visit

You’ll get the best from a visit to Onguma during the Dry season (May to October). This is when animals are much easier to spot, especially later in the season, as they gather close to the last remaining water sources. The weather is also agreeable, with clear skies, mild temperatures and cool evenings. The best time for birders is the Wet season (November to April), when migratory birds are present in large numbers.

Getting There

Most travelers arrive in Onguma by road (most often in a 4WD vehicle) or by small plane. Flying here usually involves a charter flight from the capital, Windhoek, or elsewhere in Namibia into one of the reserve’s airstrips. If you’re self-driving, you may need to leave your vehicle at the gate and be transferred to your accommodations, unless you’re staying in one of the campsites.

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 Onguma GR?

Onguma Safaris

• Onguma Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Onguma