Rates From: Sharing R1,600.

Location: Etosha National Park

Category: Luxury Safari Camp   (definitions)

Customer Rating:

100%

Sharing the eastern border of Namibia’s Etosha National Park, Onguma Tented Camp is a beguiling mixture of sophistication and relaxation, of elegance and the earth. It is this intriguing combination and attention to detail that makes Onguma Tented Camp, the latest in Visions of Africa’s up-market portfolio of camps, the ultimate in safari chic.

The principal entrance of stone, wood and steel guides guests into the Camp’s main u-shaped building with its lounge, dining area, cellar and dark, rimless swimming pool. From here one is entranced by the surrounding both inside and out. The lodge blends seamlessly with a natural waterhole that is edged with graceful makalani palms and attracts prolific birdlife and wildlife.

Like the bush where soft air blows against sharp thorns, Onguma Tented Camp is a study in contrasts. Textures such as stone, suede, linen and steel create a setting that is sleek and modern but also inherently of the earth. Inspired by a photograph of an Oryx on Etosha’s Fisher’s Pan, the interior echoes the colours of its natural surrounds. Grey, charcoal, black, white, and creams, together with a touch of muted or unexpectedly bright green, adds sophistication and earthiness to the atmosphere.

Linen drapes blowing in the breeze provide softness and a movable frame for the beautiful views outside, giving the camp a romantic, ‘Out of Africa’ feel. Stunning white beaded chairs, nguni cattle skins on screed floors, ostrich eggs shells painted a vibrant green, soft green suede cushions, African art and artifacts plus glossy African inspired books of photographic art placed in the lounge add the detail that sets this lodge apart.

The seven spacious tents extend the u-shaped design, allowing for both privacy and fantastic views. Styled similarly to the main lodge in the colors of the bush, each tent is designed with the same attention to detail and has a feeling of natural luxury. Each tent has both an indoor and outdoor shower, a gorgeous modern interpretation of an old zinc bath, a separate toilet, two stone basins and a private sitting area.

Classic safari tents are softened by draping billowing white fabric above, creating the illusion of being in the clouds. With thick white towels, cool cotton dressing gowns, oversized European pillows, retro inspired fans, stainless steel lights, gunmetal grey and white linen, the attention to detail takes time to absorb.

From each bed in every tent, there is a direct view out onto a waterhole that is floodlit at night. Under a canopy of stars, lions roar, hyenas cackle and owls hoot. In the morning, if one should choose to get out leave such comfortable surroundings the bush continues to beckon.

Onguma Tented Camp is located on Onguma Private Game Reserve. With over 20,000 hectares of protected land, wildlife, including lions, jackals, countless antelope plus rare black rhinos, roams free. Guests can enjoy guided walks through the bush and both day and night game drives on this private reserve, along with drives into neighbouring Etosha National Park.

An amazing place with an equally amazing location, plus a camp that blends natural elegance and style, relaxation and stimulation with a vision for the future truly sets Onguma Tented Camp apart, creating a new standard in safari chic.