Onguma Camp Kala in northern Namibia welcomed its first guests this month.

The exclusive safari camp is situated within the Onguma Nature Reserve, a 34 000-hectare wilderness on the eastern border of the iconic Etosha National Park.

Onguma Camp Kala accommodates eight guests in four spacious suites elevated off the ground for an eagle’s-eye view over a waterhole where wildlife gather around the natural spring – including elephants, rhino, lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra and various antelope.

Each suite has its own deck with a choice of wood-fired hot tub or a cool plunge pool as well as a walkway to a private sala with day bed – perfectly placed for an armchair safari or a ‘sleep out’ under the stars.

The central guest area has a lounge, bar, dining room, interactive ‘show’ kitchen, viewing deck with fire pit, gym, massage treatment room and ground level photographic hide.

Onguma Camp Kala’s design concept was inspired by the spires of the termite mounds so common to this part of Namibia as well as the textures and muted tones of ebony and ivory reflected in the salt pans and surrounding desert – ensuring an authentic sense of place. The camp blends seamlessly into its landscape, has a light footprint on the earth and focuses on maximising the guests’ wildlife experience.

Activities include morning and sundowner guided game drives on Onguma Nature Reserve, interpretive bush walks with specialist guides, and day drives into the adjoining Etosha National Park.

Guests can fly in to Onguma’s private airfield. Namibia is popular for self-drives thanks to its excellent road network and the camp is an easy, five-and-a-half-hour drive from Windhoek.

Although the lodge is ideal for exclusive use, the four suites can be booked individually. Under 12s will not be allowed unless the whole camp is booked for exclusive use. Extra beds can be arranged.