Ozongwindi means "fruit of the shepherd tree" in Herero. It's not a massive tree but it has been a shaded shelter for shepherds for centuries. It's also been described as a rockstar. Which is pretty impressive for a tree. It's known locally as the "tree of life," because humans and animals alike can find sustenance from it. And, to be honest, a more diverse tree is hard to find on the Namibian savanna.
The roots, when dried, roasted and ground act as a substitute for coffee or can be pounded into a white meal to make porridge. The trunks are used to catch rainwater by Bushmen and even the berry-like flower buds are edible. A concoction made from the leaves is used to help treat eye inflammation in cattle and it also helps with your haemorrhoids. Which is good news. It can also survive all the harshness in this part of Namibia.
But, and listen up, after the rains, the area around Ozongwindi Lodge turns into a veritable Eden - hartebeest, wildebeest, jackal, ostrich, warthogs, impala, oryx etc
Ten free-standing thatched bungalows - they're each about 65 square-metres and have their own private wooden decks. You won't be squashed up because all the bungalows are at least 10 meters apart, basically, you'll have privacy.
The bathrooms sound fancy. They're en-suite with granite vanity tops, granite clad showers, separate toilet, bidet and a "Royal Albert" bath... That's one of those posh, free standing ones. Think feet. You'll also have a mini-bar, tea & coffee facilities, telephone, air- conditioning/heating and a safe.
There's also an old style farm house available too. Built in the early 1900s, it has been fully renovated. There are 4 double rooms with a lounge, bar, dining room and kitchen area. There are also braai facilities. This self catering option is good for families or small groups travelling together, it's totally private and self contained.
Secluded swimming pool overlooking the Savanna - with changing facilities; illuminated waterhole; restaurant; dining room; two lounges; bar; library with WiFi
If you're self driving you will probably need a 4x4 - many of the gravel roads around here are rather ropey.
You can stay put at the lodge and literally game watch from the swimming pool. Or get a closer look from the illuminated water hole.
You can also go on organised game or scenic drives.
The lodge offers walking trails along the Khan River. This is a dry river bed which occasionally flows during the rainy season. You'll see a variety of game species here. Oryx, kudu, springbok, hartebeest, black & blue wildebeest, cheetah, leopard, honey badger as well as smaller game species.
Birding is good too, especially as all the bungalows are built under a canopy of indigenous trees. And, frankly, the birds think this is smashing. Look out for a variety of woodpecker species.
If you want to drive further afield, there's a lot of rocks to explore. Spitzkoppe is a damn good sight for sore eyes. And one of the most photographed mountain motifs in Namibia. It's also known as Namibia's "Matterhorn."
Want to see rock paintings? Well, one of the most famous formations is Bull's Party. And near here, is Phillipp's Cave. Stone tools which are thought to date from 3500 BC have been found here. And before the importance of the rock paintings at the Brandberg Mountain became known, the paintings in Philipp's Cave were the big guys. They were the most important testimony of rock art in northwest Namibia. Especially the "White Elephant" - look closely and you'll see a little red antelope too. Isn't it sweet? A little red antelope? Gorgeous.
"Such a lovely trip"
Just wanted to say thanks again for helping us organize such a lovely trip in Namibia.
"The self drive was fantastic"
This trip was absolutely amazing and is one of my tops!
"A wonderful time"
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