The Fort at Onguma was refurbished and re-launched in 2008 to instant international acclaim. Taking the safari brief to the edge of conception, South African architects incorporated natural materials and dramatic simplicity to create one of the most striking safari lodges in Namibia.
Walls are untreated and partially clad in stone, the interiors are uncluttered and furnished with great care and all about are vast windows and doors that frame the wilderness and invite the cool air inside.
Attention to detail goes way beyond sublime décor and remarkable design. Moroccan meets classical African safari. The service and standards match international levels and the food, wine, staff and management as one complement the arresting grandeur of The Fort at Onguma. And yet, not despite but perhaps because of the exceptional safari lodge and accommodation, the game viewing and wilderness experience remains the leading lady of this magnificent show.
Guided nature walks, sunrise and sunset game drives in Onguma Private Reserve; private guided Etosha safaris; game viewing tower; Onkolo Hide (must be pre-booked); bush dining and massage therapy.
The Fort is in a private reserve 20,000ha in extent and sharing a border with Etosha National Park overlooking the shimmering expanse of Fischer's Pan. Most of Etosha's wildlife species pass through the private reserve and daily guided safaris in Etosha Park will take you to any that don't.
Onguma aims to create meaningful and productive opportunities for the local community by integrating them into its operations. The primary goal is to provide jobs and income, not merely charity. To this end, Jan and Lizette Cronje launched the Oshivelo Farming project in August 2012. This 500-hectare vegetable farm, located near Etosha and Onguma, has grown from overgrown bush to become one of Namibia’s top vegetable producers, supplying major supermarkets and informal traders. Oshivelo Farming employs 180 permanent staff, with 80% being women, and up to 100 seasonal workers. Beyond creating jobs, the project supports the community by subsidizing vegetables, aiding local schools, and contributing to community infrastructure like a soccer field.
Onguma is deeply committed to conservation, evident in their operation of the Onguma Anti-Poaching Unit. This initiative plays a crucial role in safeguarding the endangered rhino population on the reserve. Since its launch, there has been a significant drop in rhino poaching, which is fantastic news!
"We can't wait to return"
I can't thank you enough for helping to put together this trip. It exceeded all our expectations and we fell in love with your country.
"We loved our experience with NTS"
We loved Namibia and its unique landscapes and kind people. It was certainly an adventure and a privilege to get to spend time there.
"We had a wonderful time in Namibia"
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"What a wonderful journey we had in beautiful and friendly Namibia!"
Namibia has stolen our travel-heart and you can consider us as new ambassadors of this spectacular country.
