FAQ

The Onguma entrance is 100 metres from the Von Lindequist Gate on the eastern boundary of Etosha National Park. Onguma borders Etosha directly, giving guests access to both a private nature reserve and one of Africa's most celebrated national parks from a single base. The experience of each is quite different: Etosha is a public park where guests self-drive or join guided excursions through open landscape, while Onguma is a private reserve where only accommodation guests have access, guides limit vehicles per sighting to three, and the people showing you around have spent years learning this specific terrain.

From Windhoek, stay on the B1 north all the way to the Tsumeb turnoff, then follow the signs to the C38 and the Von Lindequist Gate. The drive is approximately five and a half hours, almost entirely on good tarred road. From the reserve entrance to your camp is a maximum of 12 kilometres on a well-maintained dirt road. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary.

A minimum of two nights is recommended to take in at least two of the experiences on offer. In practice, most guests find themselves wishing they had booked three. Onguma means the place you don't want to leave, and the name tends to prove itself accurate.

Layers are your best approach as temperatures shift quickly between early mornings and afternoons. Neutral-coloured clothing is preferred on game drives and walks. Closed shoes are essential for any walking activity. Beyond that: a hat, sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera. In winter, add a fleece, scarf, gloves, and a beanie for early morning departures. Patience and curiosity are also worth bringing.

Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, and most allergies are all catered for. If your requirement is more specific, let the team know before you arrive and the kitchen will make it work.

Yes. Tap water at Onguma is safe to drink, though it carries a slight mineral character from the natural geology of the area. Purified water is available at all camps and provided during activities.

Onguma is in a low-malaria-risk area. We recommend consulting your doctor about appropriate precautions before travelling.

The Conservation Levy is a compulsory charge included with all accommodation bookings and funds the reserve's anti-poaching and wildlife management operations directly. Beyond that, additional costs would include spa treatments, curio shop purchases, and premium beverages not covered by your rate. Activities are included for guests on all-inclusive packages; guests on dinner, bed and breakfast rates are charged for activities separately.

Contact your rental company directly, or one of the reputable roadside assistance providers operating in Namibia. The Onguma team is happy to share contact details if needed, but repairs and recoveries are best handled by specialists. Make sure you have your rental company's emergency number saved before you depart.