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Onkoshi Camp

Our rating

6/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Only lodge within Etosha National Park
- Unique salt pan setting
- Comfortable rooms with lovely views
- NWR Portfolio

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Overview

The only lodging option within Etosha National Park, Onkoshi Camp occupies a unique setting overlooking the 5000km² Etosha salt pan. Jutting out on an isolated peninsular, the camp has a peaceful and exclusive feel, offering spectacular views across the stark expanse. Ample game-viewing is available, with opportunities to see oryx, elephant, giraffe, lion, and cheetah. On arrival, guests are required to leave private vehicles at the secure Namutoni Restcamp, and are then transferred to the camp itself.

The camp is laid out over a network of raised wooden boardwalks, with thatch-covered main areas. In tune with the camp's environmental 'low-impact' objectives, the interiors incorporate natural fittings and neutral tones. Restaurant dining is offered, and a bar and curio shop are available. An infinity pool is set on the communal deck, surrounded by sun loungers with views across the salt pan. The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly special. Although complimentary WiFi is offered in the main areas, it’s worth bearing in mind that the camp's reliance on solar power may render this service unusable at times.

The camp features fifteen free-standing thatched chalets on stilts, extending in a row out from the communal spaces. The units have canvas walls and folding wooden doors that open onto a small private veranda overlooking the salt pan. Fourteen units are classified as standard, while one is a honeymoon suite—although really the only discernible difference is the upgrade to a king-sized bed from twin beds. Each unit is en-suite, with both indoor and outdoor showers and bath. Whilst the rooms are spacious, and the décor elegant and comfortable, the luxurious feel is somewhat limited by the minimal facilities. There is no air conditioning, although ceiling fans above the mosquito-netted beds may provide some relief.

Activities largely comprise guided 4WD safaris which operate in the morning and afternoons, giving guests exclusive access to areas of Etosha far from the public self-drive roads, including exploration of the north-eastern Sanveld area. While there is little wildlife in the immediate vicinity of the lodge, there are waterholes not too far away where a spectacular abundance of wildlife can be seen, with carnivore action a possibility. Note these drives are usually shared with other Onkoshi Camp guests. Guided day-time hikes and charming moonlit walks on the salt pan are also available.

For those travelling as a family, each chalet contains a sleeper couch on which one child may stay. Children over the age of six are welcome, although as the camp is within a nature reserve where animals are free to roam, it is essential that children are supervised by parents at all times.

Onkoshi Camp offers a peaceful stay in comfortable accommodation. While it’s not hugely luxurious, it’s certainly an upgrade on alternative camping options within the park. Although there is somewhat variable service and a comparatively high price tag, the stunning scenery and interesting wildlife will make for a memorable visit.

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What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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