Extraordinary Africa>Namibia>Central Namibia>Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp
We’ve always loved Okonjima for the amazing opportunity to see big cats up close and learn about the incredible conservation work of the AfriCat Foundation. Bush Camp is just our sort of place: unfussy, down-to-earth and with some fantastic guides.
What’s Okonjima Bush Camp really like?
There are eight clay and thatch rondavels, plus one, rather swanky, honeymoon suite. They’re scattered either side of the main lodge, which overlooks a small waterhole- some rather magnificent kudu popped by to say hello when we stayed. Both the rooms and the main lodge are pretty open so you can make the most of what’s going on outside: be it a guinea-fowl singing to you in the early morning or a couple of warthogs having a stand-off. The honeymoon suite is a little snugglier, and has a fireplace, deeply romantic outdoor shower, and a lovely tub to wallow in.
What can I do at Okonjima?
Okonjima’s work has always focused on big cats, and while the emphasis is always on encouraging them to flourish in the wild, this remains a fantastic spot to see some of the rescued radio-collared cats (this remains the only place that we’ve ever got truly wonderful leopard photos from). Heading out on a drive to collect data on the leopards, would be a typical afternoon activity and you can also visit the AfriCat information centre- we really loved how this gave more of an in-depth insight into the realities and practicalities of big carnivore conservation. If you have longer to stay- we recommend two nights whenever possible- you can also do some excellent nature walks. At night, there are night drives, or visits to the hide where you can see honey badgers and porcupines in all of their prickly glory.
Giving back at Okonjima Bush Camp:
Okonjima is home of the AfriCat Foundation which exists to help protect Namibia’s large carnivores. It’d be impossible for us to detail here the incredible range of work they do, but it includes research into the carnivores (dogs as well as cats), reducing human-wildlife conflict (especially between farmers and predators), helping to look after orphaned or injured animals, and rehabilitate captured animals so they can be returned to a life in the world.
Want to know more? We’ve been here, so just
EXTRAORDINARY AFRICA 