Andersson’s at Ongava

Andersson’s sits inside the 30,000-hectare Ongava Private Reserve on Etosha’s southern boundary, giving guests private-reserve flexibility with easy access to park highlights by day. The lodge looks across a well-frequented waterhole, complemented by a superb underground photographic hide for eye-level viewing. Being on a private concession allows after-dark drives and guided walks that aren’t possible inside Etosha itself, while the adjacent Ongava Research Centre and Visitor Centre add depth with engaging, science-led exhibits and insights between activities.

The camp accommodates a maximum of eight units: seven luxury suites plus one two-bedroom family suite, designed in natural stone, wood and glass. Interiors are spacious and contemporary, with air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and private decks oriented toward the plains and waterhole. In-room touches can include tea/coffee facilities, a safe and a live feed from the waterhole, while complimentary Wi-Fi is typically available in camp (signal can be intermittent in remote areas). Architecture and finishes emphasise light footprints and a seamless connection to the surrounding mopane bush.

Central areas include a lounge and bar opening to a deck above the waterhole, a dining area and an infinity-edge pool. Signature experiences are the sunken photographic hide and time at the Ongava Research Centre and Visitor Centre, where researchers share current conservation work. Typical activities feature day and night drives on Ongava, half- or full-day excursions into Etosha, and guided nature walks when qualified walking guides are available. Between outings, guests linger on the viewing deck as elephants, rhinos and antelope rotate through the waterhole below.