Onguma Bush Camp

CEDARBERG RATING

Comfortable

PRICING FROM

₤ 114 (Pps)

Overview

Onguma Bush Camp is a comfortable bush lodge in the Onguma private game reserve which borders Etosha National Park to the east. It makes for a well priced alternative to staying in the Etosha rest camps as it is so close to the Eastern gate of Etosha, and is ideal for family safaris.

Onguma Bush Camp offers 19 stone and thatch chalets all comfortably appointed with subtle décor and much-needed air-conditioning. There’s a choice of three room types. The family rooms have loft areas which the kids love. Alternatively opt for one of the eight waterhole or pool view chalets or the Settler room (formerly the honeymoon suite).

The lounge and dining areas overlook a stunning waterhole. You don’t even have to leave the camp to see game – the wildlife comes to you! The 34,000ha private Onguma reserve includes savannah, bushveld, omuramba and dry pan and offers the opportunity to experience Africa in all her beauty and diversity. Age-old and well-worn migration routes, once used by elephant and buffalo, wander through Onguma's three dry riverbeds.

Children at Onguma Bush Camp

Onguma Bush Camp is the perfect environment for children. There’s a decent-sized swimming pool surrounded by lawns for playing, as well as a small games room. From the swimming pool and alfresco dining area you have superb tranquil views overlooking the surrounding Etosha bush.

This area is one of the key bird watching sites in Southern Africa with more than 300 bird species. The reserve boasts the biggest breeding colony of white-backed vultures in Namibia. During the summer months Onguma is home to thousands of migratory birds coming to wetlands created by the seasonal rains. Onguma is also part of an innovative custodianship project relating to the black rhino. Six black rhino were darted in Etosha National park and shipped to the reserve where they are protected and monitored.

Onguma Bush Camp is offered on a BB basis but guided morning game drives into Etosha as well as sundowner drives and night drives on Onguma’s private reserve, a rhino research drive and bush walks are all on offer at an additional charge. Complimentary Wifi is available.

At A Glance

  • Recommended for families
  • Swimming pool
  • Restaurants
  • Rural location
  • Wifi on premises

Onguma Bush Camp on the map

Rooms

Settler's Room

Formerly known as the honeymoon suite, this room is larger than the other rooms and has a small sitting area.

Deluxe Rooms

These twin bedded Waterhole or Pool side rooms have stunning views over the surrounding bush. Each room has a large en-suite bathroom and small patio from which to admire the view.

Standard / Loft Room

Standard/ Loft rooms offer ensuite bathrooms, twin beds and a small patio overlooking the gardens, with extra loft beds for children.

Rondavels

The three rondawels are part of the original lodge buildings and are built in the traditional circular style with thatched rooves. They offer ensuite bathrooms, twin beds and a small patio overlooking the gardens.

Family units

The 1 Family Units has two inter-leading bedrooms each with its own en-suite bathroom.

Onguma Bush Camp – value for money & family-friendly

Onguma Bush was a great lodge with wonderful staff and vibey atmosphere. Even though it is relatively large, there are separate lounge areas where you can sit and look out over their waterhole in front of the deck. This waterhole is generally quite rewarding. Whilst we were at dinner, a large group of zebra came to drink in front of us.

The bedroom is quite spacious, but the bathroom is fairly small and utilitarian. The toilet was not enclosed. There was Air-con in all rooms which was appreciated.
The food was good with a great variety on offer. Their boma dinner was set up at Etosha Aoba, their sister camp, as a lion had temporarily taken up residence in their boma at bush camp! Great selection on offer for every dietary requirement.

Onguma has a wonderful new option called The Dream Cruiser. This is basically a romantic sleep-out option, but with a twist. The sleep-out is in a converted landcruiser with sleep-out on the roof and ensuite bathroom down in the back of the cruise. This is a brilliant  idea as it's mobile so they choose different spots near the waterhole depending on whether it is summer or winter. The deck is actually quite spacious and the bathroom is great with a fully functioning hot shower & flush toilet. As it is weather dependent, you can only book this alongside a room at one of the Onguma lodges.

Note: Its only for couples (2 pax) on a double bed – no space for kids.

Cedarberg : Gloria Darvall