With a maximum of six guests, Horizons by Ongava remains wonderfully intimate. There is, however, nothing modest about the scale of luxury or the generous size of its suites.
Horizons by Ongava (formerly Little Ongava) has had a bit of a glow-up. The name may have changed, but thankfully all the things we loved remain firmly in place: the spectacular views, the outrageous levels of luxury and the feeling that you have somehow stumbled into the most exclusive corner of the Namibian bush.
Perched high on a ridge with 360-degree views, Horizons is all about the setting. And what a setting it is. From up here you can see for miles - endless plains, distant mountains and the occasional elephant wandering past looking as if he owns the place. Which, to be fair, he probably does.
There are still only three villas, so this is about as far from a busy hotel buffet queue as you can get. Each villa is enormous. Not “quite spacious” enormous. More “you may briefly lose your travelling companion between the bedroom and the plunge pool” enormous. The bathrooms have been beautifully redesigned, the decks extended and shaded, the furnishings upgraded and there is now enough air-conditioning to cope admirably with even the hottest Namibian afternoon.
Huge doors open onto private decks, a plunge pool and a sala, all looking out over the reserve and the waterhole far below. It is the sort of view that makes you put your phone down for five whole minutes. Possibly more.
The main lodge has also had a thoughtful makeover. The deck is larger, the views are even better and there is a new shaded verandah for those who prefer their wildlife viewing with a cold drink in hand and no risk of sunburn. The atmosphere is stylish but relaxed - less “stiff luxury lodge” and more “ridiculously beautiful bush house belonging to a very glamorous friend”.
You can dine wherever takes your fancy: in your villa, on your deck, under the stars or in the lovely shared lounge. There is now even a proper espresso station, because apparently watching giraffe stroll past while drinking excellent coffee is something we should all be doing more often.
Beyond the lovely bits you can see, Ongava has also been quietly investing behind the scenes - improving staff accommodation, adding more renewable energy and upgrading waste management. So you can feel pleasantly virtuous while floating in your plunge pool.
This is still one of the most intimate and indulgent places to stay near Etosha National Park. You have your own private guide and vehicle, which means no awkward debates about whether to stop for that distant rhino or carry on to the next waterhole. The answer, obviously, is both.
Bird watching; day and night game drives; game drives in Etosha and Ongava reserve; game walks; white and black rhino tracking; white rhino and elephant approaching; full day excursions to Etosha; visit the Ongava Research Centre
In the vein of exclusivity, the camp has a private game guide and a dedicated safari vehicle just for you. Activities include game drives into Etosha and walks and safaris in the private reserve, which also has several hides and waterholes.
Along with the predators and large herbivores look out for Namibian specialities: white and black rhino, elephant, gemsbok, springbok, damara dik-dik and the black-faced impala. Birding is excellent with raptors in abundance and endemics including short-toed rockthrush, Hartlaub's francolin, rockrunner, Rüppell's parrot, white-tailed shrike and chestnut weaver.
Ongava exemplifies its commitment to sustainability through effective management of water and waste facilities, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The lodge prioritises sourcing groceries locally, supporting nearby farmers and reducing food miles. Additionally, by employing locals from the community, Ongava not only provides job opportunities but also fosters a deeper connection between guests and the surrounding culture. These initiatives reflect the lodge's dedication to promoting responsible tourism while contributing positively to the local environment and economy. Here you will also find The Ongava Research Centre, an independently funded hub dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the African bush's wildlife and ecology. Researchers from around the world contribute to vital studies on animal behaviour, migration, and conservation, exploring how species interact with their environment. The adjoining visitor centre offers fascinating insights into Ongava Private Game Reserve’s history, flora, fauna, and the future of sustainable tourism. Additionally, the centre provides a unique stargazing experience, enhancing the immersive, educational journey at this pioneering research and conservation hub.
"A dream come true"
We had the most amazing family holiday, everything worked so perfectly, the arrangements and accommodation was spectacular!
"Unforgettable trip to Namibia – Thank you Namibia Tours & Safaris!"
We are a group of four from Romania and spent 3 unforgettable weeks in Namibia. We can't recommend them enough, and for any future travels in Namibia or other parts of Africa, we will definitely use their services again.
"We had a great experience"
From the time we put the key in the ignition till we boarded the plane in Windhoek nothing went wrong.
"Unforgettable bird photography trip in Namibia"
It was a fantastic experience, everything was very well organised, went smooth and according to expectations. It was our first self drive in Africa and it was a great, unforgettable time.
