Onguma Private Game Reserve

This is one of Namibia’s best-kept secrets! Located just outside the eastern perimeter of the world-famous Etosha National Park, Onguma Private Game Reserve offers safari-goers a more secluded experience. Here, go on game drives and walking safaris to explore, as well as night drives for insight into the lives of the nocturnal residents of the reserve.

Must-Visit Areas in Onguma Private Game Reserve

Thanks to low visitor numbers, you can expect quiet safari trails on which you can keep wildlife sightings all to yourself. Don’t miss out on visiting these two areas:

Walking Trails: Immersive Bush Experience

Besides game drives, you can also explore the reserve via walking safaris. This activity is an amazing way to immerse yourself in nature and get closer to the smaller inhabitants of the reserve, including birds, insects, and small mammals. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll walk across the land and learn more about animal tracking and fauna, among other things.

Onkolo Hide: Epic Wildlife Photography

Imagine seeing an oryx kneeling down to take a sip of water or a cheetah with her cubs coming for a drink – and you’re in the perfect position to capture it all on camera. The Onkolo Hide in Onguma is located at water-level near a popular watering hole, affording photographers awe-inspiring views of nature and wildlife.

When’s the Best Time to Go to Onguma Private Game Reserve?

The dry winter season, from May to October, is the ideal time for game viewing in Onguma. Due to the lack of rain, game are easier to find among thin vegetation and gathering around remaining watering holes.

November sees the start of the hot, wet season in this region. As water sources increase, animals are able to disperse. Migratory bird species from Europe and Asia fly into the reserve, creating a spectacular environment for birdwatching safaris.

Animals Found in Onguma Private Game Reserve

As Onguma shares an unfenced border with Etosha, animals can wander freely between the two destinations, making this an excellent destination for a Namibia wildlife safari. Four of the Big Five can be found at Onguma, with just buffaloes being absent; the reserve is known for its thriving black rhino population. African big cats – lions, leopards, and cheetahs – are also regular sightings.

On the antelope front, wildebeest, greater kudu, red hartebeest, oryx, and impala can be seen traversing across the landscape here. Other species to look out for include zebras and giraffes.

Birders will be able to spot over 300 bird species in this reserve, one being white-backed vultures. Onguma has the largest breeding colony of this vulture species in the country, making this an incredible destination for a birdwatching safari in Namibia.

How to Get to Onguma Private Game Reserve

Onguma has its own private airstrip for fly-in guests. After arriving at Namibia’s international airport in Windhoek, you can take a charter flight to Onguma. Alternatively, a road transfer will take about five and a half hours.