Ongava Tented Camp, now Encounter by Ongava
Ongava Tented Camp was renamed Encounter by Ongava in 2026. The camp remains in a secluded valley on Ongava Game Reserve, south of Etosha National Park. Current booking documents use the Encounter name, while many travellers still recognise the long-established Ongava Tented Camp name.
This is an unfenced safari camp in mopane woodland, where animals may move through the grounds. Nine tents and a waterhole-facing main area create a small, classic camp atmosphere. Guests remain close to the sounds and movement of the bush, but staff guidance and escorted movement after dark are essential.
Ongava safari tents in a natural setting
The nine walk-in tents are raised on wooden decks and have private verandas. Interiors include comfortable beds with mosquito nets, a writing area, tea and coffee facilities and a safe. Canvas walls allow natural bush sounds to remain part of the experience, so this style suits travellers who enjoy immersion more than complete separation from nature.
Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with a flush toilet, vanity and indoor and outdoor showers. The design is comfortable rather than formal, with natural ventilation supported by the current room facilities. Paths can be uneven, and the unfenced layout requires awareness when moving between a tent and the main area.
Facilities at this tented accommodation near Etosha
The thatched dining and lounge area overlooks the waterhole, providing a focal point for meals and wildlife observation. An evening campfire deck encourages guests to share the day’s sightings, while the swimming pool also faces the waterhole and offers relief during hot afternoons.
The atmosphere at Encounter by Ongava
The camp’s appeal lies in its modest scale and proximity to wildlife rather than a long list of resort facilities. Meals, scheduled activities and drinks depend on the package selected. Share dietary requirements in advance and ask us to confirm Wi-Fi, laundry and beverage inclusions for your exact rate.
Activities from Ongava Tented Camp
Guided options include drives on Ongava Game Reserve, excursions into Etosha, night drives and birding. Walking activities may be available for guests who meet age and fitness requirements, while hides offer quieter photographic observation. The schedule responds to weather, wildlife movement and operational conditions.
Etosha drives explore public park waterholes and open plains. Ongava activities take place on the private reserve and may include after-dark viewing not possible inside the national park. Both are valuable, and a two- or three-night stay gives more scope to combine them.
Planning an Ongava Tented Camp stay
Because the camp is unfenced, children under twelve are generally not accommodated. Canvas rooms also transmit more sound than solid chalets, which is part of the safari experience but worth considering for light sleepers. Pack closed shoes, a torch, insect repellent and warm layers for dawn departures.
Who Encounter by Ongava suits
Choose this camp for an intimate, traditional tented stay with close waterhole views and guided access to both Ongava and Etosha. Use Encounter by Ongava when checking current availability. Travel 2 Namibia can verify the latest child policy, package inclusions and transfers before confirming your itinerary.
