Mount Etjo Safari Lodge owes its abundant and varied wildlife to the passionate toil of the game sanctuary's creator, Jan Oelofse. Founded in 1975 with a handful of tents and about as much money, the Okanjati Game Sanctuary is now host to 300 species of bird and over 50 species of mammal and innumerable small animals. The reserve is home to a total of 8000 plus animals. Impressive.

The swimming pool and a large deck look out over the waterhole and the game viewing is excellent year round. Black and white rhino have been reintroduced and there are several rare species of mammal including Hartmann's mountain zebra, Damara dik-dik, black-faced impala, roan, sable, red lechwe and nyala. The sanctuary also has elephant, lion, leopard and cheetah. There’s a good chance, if you stay long enough, that you could see most.

Rooms are comfortable with en suite bathrooms, luxury versions have jacuzzis and they all have a view of a busy waterhole. The main lodge features a rustic lapa dining area where al fresco meals by the light of a campfire are a highlight. The food is uncomplicated with liberal use of the barbecue and no shortage of Namibia's excellent game meat.

It’s the ideal stopover, but even better for multiple nights if you wish to make the most of it and give yourself time enough to relax in this pure Namibian wilderness.