Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa, and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund boasting remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, such as lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert; and of course the Namib Desert stretching for over 2000 km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.
The Okonjima Nature Reserve is a renowned wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, located in the central region of the country, approximately halfway between the capital, Windhoek, and Etosha National Park. Covering an area of about 200 square kilometers, the reserve is privately managed.
Okonjima is famous for its conservation efforts, particularly for the preservation and rehabilitation of cheetahs and leopards. It serves as the headquarters of the AfriCat Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of these big cats. The foundation conducts research, provides veterinary care, and runs educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of predator conservation.
In addition to cheetahs and leopards, Okonjima is home to other wildlife species such as spotted hyenas, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and various bird species. The reserve offers a diverse ecosystem of open grasslands, rocky hills, and dense bushland, providing a suitable habitat for these animals.
Besides wildlife-focused activities, the Okonjima Nature Reserve also offers opportunities for cultural interactions and outdoor adventures. Visitors can learn about the local Herero and Himba cultures through village visits and craft markets. Hiking trails, bird watching, and visits to the Bushman Trail Museum allow guests to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the reserve.
Overall, the Okonjima Nature Reserve in Namibia is a remarkable destination, offering wildlife enthusiasts the chance to experience the beauty of cheetahs and leopards in their natural environment while supporting conservation efforts. It is a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and education, making it an ideal choice for nature lovers.
Okonjima - The AfriCat Foundation
Located just south of the boundary of Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia, Etosha South makes up the southern region of this wild paradise. The area is comprised of a collection of world class private game reserves. The national park can be accessed via the southern entrance at Andersson’s Gate. Visitors can catch a glimpse of a variety of wildlife including: lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino, and a multitude of plains game. Popular activities include: enjoying an open 4x4 safari with an expert guide, half day or full day drives with the option of a picnic lunch with wine on the full day game drive.
The Onguma Game Reserve is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, located adjacent to the eastern side of Etosha National Park in Namibia. Spanning an area of about 34,000 hectares, it offers visitors a unique safari experience.
Onguma is renowned for its diverse landscape, which includes open plains, mopane woodlands, and dense bushland. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous bird species. Visitors have an excellent opportunity to observe these fascinating animals in their natural environment.
One of the main attractions of the Onguma Game Reserve is its immediate proximity to Etosha National Park. The eastern side of Onguma borders Etosha, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the two areas. This free movement enhances the chances of spotting a wide range of animals.
Another highlight of Onguma is the strategically positioned photographic hides at waterholes. These hides offer photographers and wildlife enthusiasts a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning close-up images of wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior.
In addition to wildlife experiences, Onguma Game Reserve also offers cultural encounters and opportunities for relaxation. Cultural tours to nearby villages provide insights into the traditions and customs of local communities, while wellness facilities and swimming pools in the lodges allow guests to unwind and rejuvenate after exciting game drives.
Overall, Onguma Game Reserve provides a remarkable blend of wildlife adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts.
Rundu is the capital of the Kavango Province in Namibia. Located in the northern part of the country, it has a population of approximately 90,000 residents. After the capital Windhoek, Rundu is the second-largest city in Namibia and lies in the northeast, directly on the Okavango River and the border with Angola. The city serves as the main center of the Kavango Region, an area characterized by tropical forests and riverine savannas.
Rundu experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city is also known for hosting the largest open market in the area, which attracts many tourists.
THINGS TO DO
Activities in and around Rundu include:
- Fishing and water sports
- Khaudum Game Reserve
- Mangetti National Park
- Okavango River
- Open market
- Woodcarver's market
The Kwando River winds its way through the breathtaking southern part of Africa, forming much of the eastern border of Namibia.
The banks of the Kwando River are lined with lush vegetation, harboring a rich variety of plants and trees. This abundant flora not only provides a visual delight but also serves as a habitat for a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and a variety of bird species. The river and its surroundings are part of the Caprivi Strip, a region known for its biodiversity and pristine nature.
Therefore, the riverbanks provide ideal spots for nature lovers and photographers to observe and capture the rich wildlife in their natural habitat. The tranquil atmosphere of the river also creates a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the landscape and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The surrounding villages along the Kwando River allow travelers to immerse themselves in the culture of the local population and experience the warm hospitality of the community. The traditional customs and everyday life on the riverbank contribute to the authentic experience that makes the Kwando River an unforgettable destination.
Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.
Situated in the northeastern part of Botswana among a massive territory of national parks, reserves and conservation areas, the Nogatsaa area inside Chobe National Park boasts stunning wild scenery and an array of animals. The remote landscape, characterised by open grasslands, pans and waterholes, is scattered with lookout hides where visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, impalas, water buffalo, reedbucks, gemsboks, roans, the rare oribi antelope, and baboons, as well as a huge variety of birdlife. There are wonderful game viewing opportunities, which can be enjoyed easily on foot, four-wheel drive, or by boat. After a thrilling day of African adventure, visitors can cool off at lodge pools, hear traditional stories around the fire (boma), and do some first-class stargazing in the crystal-clear night skies.
Kasane Forest Reserve, located in northern Botswana, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This pristine reserve is adjacent to Chobe National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.
The forest reserve is characterized by dense woodland, open grasslands, and the Chobe River, which attracts a rich diversity of animals, including large herds of elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas are also commonly spotted. Birdwatchers will find Kasane Forest Reserve particularly rewarding, with over 450 species recorded in the area.
The reserve offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for game drives, boat safaris, and birdwatching, all set against the stunning backdrop of the African wilderness. Its proximity to the town of Kasane makes it easily accessible for travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience with the convenience of nearby amenities.
