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On April 11th, a new chapter unfolds at Ongava with the unveiling of Horizon by Ongava, formerly known as Little Ongava. This is more than a change of name. It is the evolution of an experience, a quiet yet powerful redefinition of what it means to be immersed in the wild.

A New Perspective: Introducing Horizon by Ongava

On April 11th, a new chapter unfolds at Ongava with the unveiling of 

It marked not only a change of name, but the quiet continuation of a story shaped by land, time, and intention.

Perched high above the plains, Horizon introduces a perspective that feels both elevated and expansive. From this vantage point, the landscape stretches endlessly, drawing the eye outward and the mind into a different rhythm. There is a sense of openness here that is not only physical, but mental and deeply personal. The experience does not demand attention. It settles, gradually, into something more considered.

Each villa stands apart, a private sanctuary shaped by the materials of its surroundings. Stone, wood, glass, and thatch come together in a way that feels both grounded and open. Floor-to-ceiling views dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing the wilderness to move through each space without interruption.

From the decks, the reserve unfolds in quiet detail. Wildlife moves across the plains as it always has, undisturbed. An elephant in the distance, a pride of lions resting in shade, antelope shifting with the light. These are not moments arranged for observation, but part of a larger, ongoing rhythm. Here, they are experienced from a place of stillness and privacy.

Time takes on a different pace. Mornings arrive slowly, with light spilling across the horizon. Afternoons stretch into rest, shaded and unhurried. Evenings settle with the soft glow of sunset, giving way to a sky that opens fully to the night. Each villa, with its private pool and uninterrupted views, becomes a place to pause rather than to move through.

The unveiling of Horizon by Ongava was formally officiated by the Honourable Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Indileni Daniel, who led the official opening and introduced the lodge’s new identity.

The ceremony was attended by the Executive Director, Mr. Sikongo Haihambo, alongside Ongava directors Mr. Derek Moore and Mr. Amos Shiyuka and other distinguished guests, reflecting a long-standing partnership between Ongava and the Government of Namibia. It was a moment that acknowledged not only the reopening of a lodge, but a shared commitment to conservation, responsible tourism, and the stewardship of Namibia’s natural landscapes.

Formerly known as Little Ongava, the lodge has undergone a comprehensive and carefully considered renovation. The name Horizon reflects this transition, not as a departure, but as a natural extension of what the experience has become.

This evolution is guided by a clear philosophy from Ongava’s shareholders, rooted in a long-term commitment to Namibia and in the understanding that conservation, community, and tourism exist within the same system. 

Continued investment into the business reflects this approach, with investment extending beyond the guest experience into the fabric of the reserve itself, with upgrades to staff accommodation, the integration of additional renewable energy systems, and more responsible waste management practices. Infrastructure across the reserve continues to be strengthened, with enhancements already underway at multiple camps and further developments planned. These are not isolated improvements, but part of a broader, long-term  vision. By focusing on low-impact, high-quality tourism, Ongava ensures that conservation outcomes are sustained while the guest experience continues to evolve.

Within this context, Horizon takes its place.

Perched on a ridge with uninterrupted 360-degree views, the lodge deepens its focus on privacy, space, and highly personalised service. The main area has been redesigned to improve both flow and function. A new roof structure now incorporates guest bathrooms and a dedicated concierge office, allowing service to remain present, seamless, and discreet. The former guest bathroom area has been transformed into a fully equipped waiter station, including espresso facilities, refining both in-villa dining and shared lounge experiences.

The front deck has been lowered and extended, creating a more generous and accessible space while opening wider sightlines across the landscape. A new verandah roof provides full shade, while the raised structure strengthens the visual connection to the surrounding wilderness. All decks have been rebuilt on new steel substructures, ensuring durability and stability over time.

Within each villa, the experience has been further refined. Bathrooms have been completely redesigned, external decks reshaped, and additional air-conditioning installed, bringing each villa to three climate units for consistent comfort throughout the year. Roofs have been re-thatched and sealed, and new flooring has been introduced across both interior and exterior spaces. Furnishings, fittings, and soft finishes have been upgraded, enhancing texture, lighting, and comfort. Lounge areas now include a triple couch that converts into a third bed, offering greater flexibility for families travelling together.

Looking ahead, from 2027, each stay will include a complimentary wellness treatment, adding another dimension to the sense of restoration and privacy that defines the experience.

At its core, Horizon is defined by space.

Space to breathe.
Space to reflect.
Space to reconnect.

Elevated walkways guide guests gently through the landscape, linking villas to shared spaces while preserving a sense of distance and seclusion. Every element is designed to hold that balance, where comfort is present but never overwhelming, and where the experience remains clear and uninterrupted.

With only three villas, Horizon remains deeply intimate. Each stay is personal, each moment unhurried, and each encounter with the wild feels both expansive and close.

As the first guests arrived, Horizon by Ongava took its place within the portfolio with quiet confidence. It does not rely on scale or statement. Its presence is felt through detail, through perspective, and through the way the experience unfolds over time.

Horizon is where the experience opens out.
Where perspective shifts.
Where space, clarity, and possibility come into view.

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Welcome to Ongava's blog - Whispers from the Wild. 



Here we bring you stories from the heart of Namibia's untamed wilderness. In our first post, we journey back to the beginning, a tale of transformation, resilience, and the vision that turned barren farmland into a thriving haven for some of Africa’s most endangered species. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ongava through stories and encounters that showcase the people, wildlife, and landscapes that make this sanctuary truly extraordinary.

Whispers

Encounter by Ongava is an immersive safari camp set deep within Ongava Game Reserve. Unfenced and surrounded by Mopane woodland, this is a place of immediacy, where wildlife moves freely through the landscape and the experience feels alive, unscripted, and close.

Where the wild is met most directly

Ongava Game Reserve sits on the southern edge of Etosha, a place shaped by time, drought, resilience and return. It is ancient country. Dolomite hills rise from open plains. Valleys are worn smooth by centuries of movement. Water arrives quietly, but with consequence. Wildlife has always known these paths. Rhinos, lions, elephants and antelope moved through this landscape long before they were watched, photographed or followed.

Ongava’s story began with a decision rooted in responsibility. To restore, protect and return the land to itself. What followed was not simply conservation, but patience. Ecosystems were allowed to heal. Wildlife returned. A reserve slowly became what it was always meant to be.

Today, Ongava stands as one of Namibia’s great conservation success stories, a place where protection and presence exist in balance. It is from this long view, this sense of continuity, that Encounter by Ongava emerges.

On 14 February, Ongava Game Reserve reopens its safari camp, now embracing a new identity. Formerly Ongava Tented Camp, the property now becomes Encounter by Ongava. The change reflects not reinvention, but refinement. A clearer expression of what this place has always offered.

Encounter by Ongava marks the next step in Ongava’s evolving brand story. One that places the Ongava name firmly at the centre of its portfolio, while allowing each property to express a distinct role and experience.

The name Encounter is deliberate. Here, the relationship with the wild is immediate and unfiltered.

This is not a camp designed for distance or detachment. It is set within a secluded valley at the foot of a dolomite hill, where the land folds inward and wildlife moves freely, unconcerned with boundaries. Animals pass through camp. Sounds carry at night. Tracks appear by morning where there were none before. Guests do not observe nature from afar. They are immersed within it.

At Encounter, the wild does not perform. It simply exists.

The camp remains true to the spirit of classic safari. Nine spacious tents sit lightly within the bush. Open air showers invite moments of awareness, water on skin, birds calling overhead, the sense of being both protected and exposed. Private decks look out onto the surrounding wilderness, where stillness is often broken by movement.

Nothing here is excessive. Everything is intentional.

Encounter is for guests who seek presence rather than polish. It is a place for early mornings and long silences, for walking slowly and sitting still, for listening as the bush reveals itself in layers. The luxury lies not in spectacle, but in access. Access to space, to time, to something unscripted.

“Encounter is where guests meet the wild most directly,” says the Ongava team. “The name reflects the feeling of being present, alert and deeply connected to the landscape.”

That connection has always been at the heart of Ongava. From its beginnings as a conservation led reserve to its role today as custodian of one of Namibia’s most important wildlife areas, Ongava has never sought to tame the land. It has chosen instead to protect it and invite others to experience it with respect.

Encounter does not ask guests to retreat from nature. It asks them to step closer.

As the camp reopens this February, it does so guided by the rhythms of the land. The name has changed, but the soul remains unmistakable. This is still a place of first light and last calls. A place of dust on boots and stars without interruption. A place where the wild is not curated, but encountered honestly, intimately and on its own terms.

In a world that increasingly asks us to look away, Encounter asks only that we pay attention.

Introducing Encounter by Ongava

As the year draws to a close, there is a particular stillness that settles over Ongava Game Reserve.
The light softens. The bush exhales. And in these final days, we find ourselves reflecting not only on the passing of time, but on the deeper rhythm of a year shaped by connection to land, to wildlife, and to one another.


As the year draws to a close, there is a particular stillness that settles over Ongava Game Reserve.

A moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead

The light softens. The bush exhales. And in these final days, we find ourselves reflecting not only on the passing of time, but on the deeper rhythm of a year shaped by connection to land, to wildlife, and to one another.

Across Ongava, there was a renewed focus on meaning over momentum, on creating experiences that feel grounded, personal, and true to place. From the way guests were welcomed, to the stories shared around the fire, to the quiet moments spent observing wildlife in its natural rhythm, everything pointed back to one simple truth: the most powerful experiences are often the unspoken ones.

Conservation remained at the heart of the year.

Behind the scenes, the work continued steadily and thoughtfully, monitoring species, protecting habitats, and strengthening long-term research efforts through the Discovery and Research Centre led by the Ongava Research Centre. This commitment, woven quietly into daily operations, ensures that every stay contributes to something far greater than the moment itself.

Listening to the land during challenging climatic shifts. Listening to guests who sought not just comfort, but purpose and authenticity. And listening internally, refining how we communicate our values, how we present our story, and how we honour Ongava not just as a destination, but as a living conservation landscape.

Throughout the year, a stronger emphasis emerged on storytelling with substance. Stories rooted in place, people, and responsibility. Stories that do not rush to impress, but instead invite understanding. This shift has allowed Ongava’s voice to grow warmer, clearer, and more confident in what it stands for.

And then, of course, there were the people.

The guides who translated tracks in the sand into unforgettable moments. The teams whose dedication ensured that every detail reflected care and thoughtfulness. And the guests who arrived curious and left deeply connected, carrying Ongava with them long after their journey ended.

As we look toward 2026, there is a sense of quiet excitement, not for change alone, but for thoughtful evolution.

The year ahead holds opportunities to deepen conservation impact, strengthen research, refine guest experiences, and continue telling Ongava’s story with honesty and heart. It invites us to keep choosing intention over excess, stewardship over spectacle, and connection over convention.

We step into the new year with gratitude.

Gratitude for the lessons of the past year.
Gratitude for the resilience of this landscape.
And gratitude for the privilege of protecting a place where wildlife still moves freely, and moments still unfold naturally.

From all of us at Ongava, we wish you a peaceful close to the year and a meaningful beginning to the next. 

Photography: Valentino Morgante, Andrew Morgan, Le Roux Van Schalkwyk, Sune Van Wyk

A Year Written in Tracks, Light, and Quiet Moments

Wildfires have recently swept through parts of Etosha, but Ongava remains safe and fully operational. We share how our teams supported in the response and why your safari experience continues, with only a distant haze as a reminder of the bush’s resilience.

Fires in Etosha: A Season of Smoke and Strength

The dry season in Namibia carries its own rhythm. This year, the abundance of last season’s rains left the savanna thick with grass. A blessing, which turned into fuel for the fire once the winds began to turn.

In recent weeks, fires have swept through sections of Etosha National Park. Guests at Ongava may have noticed smoke drifting on the horizon, caught the faint glow of flames far away, or heard stories of fire lines battled through the night.

It is natural to feel concern. Yet through it all 

Etosha remained open to guest, and Ongava remained safe.

 Our lodges, staff, and wildlife viewing areas on Ongava were not affected by the fires. Our game drives into the park continued as planned, with minor adjustments to avoid recently burned sections.

Behind the scenes, Ongava was part of the coordinated response. Our teams stood shoulder to shoulder with park authorities and neighbouring landowners. Our teams supported firefighting efforts both on the ground and in the air, working alongside park officials to contain and redirect the flames. As confimed by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism the fires are extinguished, with only blackened patches on the landscape as reminders of the season past.

Still, fire leaves its marks. Blackened earth, scorched trees, and sometimes wildlife in need. While the bush will recover, the impact is real. We ask our guests to approach these moments with sensitivity. Should you encounter any wildlife that appears injured or in distress, please let our team or the park officials know at once, so the right response teams can be mobilised.

We are also humbled by the generosity of those who have asked about donating. While there may indeed be a need for support in the days to come, we advise waiting until an official directive is given. This ensures any help is channeled where it can do the most good, such as veterinary supplies or fodder for wildlife when required.

Above all, please know that the safety of our guests, staff, and wildlife remains our highest priority. Ongava is in constant contact with park authorities and conservation officials, and together we remain committed to protecting this extraordinary place through every season.

For travellers, Etosha continues to offer the beauty, wildlife, and sense of wonder it always has. The fires are now behind us a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of the wild.

Yes. Etosha National Park remains open to visitors. Some inner areas and routes may experience temporary access restrictions.

Has Ongava reserve been affected by the fires?

No. The fires were within Etosha National Park and did not entered the Ongava reserve. All our lodges, staff, and wildlife viewing areas remained safe throughout.

You can look forward to the same exceptional safari experience Ongava is known for. All activities and services are running as normal, wildlife sightings remain excellent, and the landscapes continue to inspire. In some areas of Etosha, you may see recently burned grassland, which is a natural part of the dry season. However, this does not affect the quality of your journey.

For any potential future threats we have strong contingency plans in place as part of our safety commitment, but these have not been needed and the situation remains stable.

Yes. Etosha and Ongava remain fully open and operational. At Ongava our guests will continue to enjoy outstanding wildlife experiences, with minimal impact from the recent fires.

Most wildlife naturally moves away from fire zones. Park authorities are monitoring the situation closely to provide support where necessary.

What should I do if I see injured animals?

Please notify your guide immediately, report sightings to Ongava staff or Etosha park officials. Information is passed directly to the teams who can respond.

Yes. Once needs are clearly identified, donations can be directed to specific causes (such as veterinary supplies or fodder) to ensure funds are used appropriately.

There is no need. Travel to Ongava and Etosha continues as usual, and your safety is our priority. Our game drives into the park continue as planned, with minor adjustments to the routes travelled in order to avoid recently burned sections. We remain in close contact with park authorities and will provide updates if circumstances change.

Etosha fire, Wednesday 24th September 2025(video)

The bushveld is a place of resilience, where life endures through cycles of abundance and adversity. 

Whispers of Grass and Gratitude: Ongava’s Gift to the Hai//om Etosha San

The bushveld is a place of resilience, where life endures through cycles of abundance and adversity. This year, the fires swept across the land with a ferocity that left little behind but ash and silence. For the farmers from the Hai//om Etosha San Community, whose cattle and livelihoods depend on the grasslands bordering Etosha, the loss was profound.

In response, Ongava donated two truck and trailer loads of grass, more than 80 large bales, to the farmers. A simple gesture rooted in solidarity. As the bales were unloaded, hands met in gratitude, and the air filled with the soft murmur of hope returning.

Yet this gesture is more than a donation. It reflects a deeper shift in conservation, a moveaway from exclusion and towards participation. For decades, the protection of rhinos and other wildlife was often framed as a battle, with fences to divide and patrols to defend and keep people out. Today, the conversation is evolving. Conservation is no longer just about saving animals, it is about aligning and ensuring that people and wildlife flourish side by side.

This vision is echoed in the recent report African and Asian Rhinoceroses – Status, Conservation and Trade, produced by experts from the IUCN Species Survival Commission’s African Rhino Specialist Group, Asian Rhino Specialist Group and TRAFFIC, was commissioned by the Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), ahead of CITES COP20 in November. Its findings underscore a simple truth: the future of rhinos rests in the hands of local communities like the Hai//om Etosha San.

When local people are included through meaningful employment, eco-tourism, co-managed protected areas, and conservation-linked businesses everyone stands to gain. Studies show that inclusive governance and economic equity are not just ideals, they are the foundations of lasting conservation.

Ongava’s grass donation is a small chapter in this larger narrative. It is a reminder that the health of the land, the prosperity of its people, and the survival of its wildlife are intertwined. As the hungry livestock find nourishment in the hay, the veld whispers its lesson: true conservation is participatory, generous, and just.

From the ashes of loss rises hope, and with it the promise of a deep partnership where both people and rhinos can thrive.

At Ongava, conservation is never a backdrop, it is our story. Ongava’s rhinos stand as symbols of resilience and hope. Their presence is both a gift and a responsibility. One carried with deep dedication by everyone who calls Ongava home.

Ongava’s Rhinos: The Heartbeat of the Reserve 

At Ongava, conservation is never a backdrop, it is our story.

The sun rises over the golden savanna, casting a warm glow across the vast plains of Ongava Game Reserve. Here, in the heart of Namibia, life moves at a rhythm that has endured for centuries. This is rhino country, a place where survival and hope walk side by side. Once four unproductive cattle farms, Ongava is now a thriving sanctuary for countless species, with rhinos at its very core. Their presence is both a gift and a responsibility. One carried with deep dedication by everyone who calls Ongava home.

Across Africa, rhino populations have been decimated. Poaching for rhino horn remains one of the greatest threats to these magnificent animals. Criminal syndicates fuel the illegal trade, putting rhinos at risk every single day.

Inside Ongava’s Discovery Center, a map reveals the rhino’s once-vast range now reduced to a handful of pinpoints. Black and white rhinos, once abundant across the continent, now exist only in small, fragmented populations. Numbers in the thousands may sound encouraging, until one understands they represent an 83–85% decline. Sobering though it is, this story is not one of despair, but of resilience.

Ongava is one of the rare places where both white and black rhinos roam freely. While closely related, their differences are striking. White rhinos are larger, with a broad, square-shaped mouth suited to grazing on grasses, while black rhinos are slightly smaller, with a pointed upper lip designed to grasp leaves and branches from shrubs and trees. Understanding these adaptations deepens appreciation for their unique roles in the ecosystem and the distinct challenges each species faces.

Every rhino at Ongava is known and carefully monitored from birth. A dedicated rhino monitoring program tracks each individual, documenting family lines to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse population. After years of drought that had made supplemental feeding a costly necessity, the rains returned to Ongava. The plains blossomed with fresh grass and new shoots, filling the air with the scent of wet earth. For the first time in years, food is abundant and natural, a gift from the land that reminds everyone at Ongava that resilience and renewal are always possible.

Keeping these animals safe is no small task. Ongava is proud to maintain a record of zero poaching incidents to date, a remarkable achievement in a world where the threat is ever-present. The success of the reserve’s conservation efforts relies on a layered, round-the-clock protection and anti-poaching system including foot patrols, trained canine teams, aerial support, advanced monitoring technologies and so much more. A multi-faceted approach designed to deter threats.

A remarkable unit in these protection efforts are the Ongava anti-poaching K9’s. Skilled in detecting intruders, tracking human scent and responding rapidly when their handlers need them. These four-legged guardians are more than security tools, they are trusted partners whose intelligence, loyalty, and skill play a vital role in keeping the rhinos safe. Guests who meet them while out on a drive through the reserve leave inspired, witnessing firsthand how teamwork across species can help save a precious animal.

Ongava is not only a haven but also a living laboratory. With almost 20 years at Ongava, Abigail Guerier brings both scientific expertise and a deep passion for wildlife conservation. She began her journey as a researcher in 2005 and has led Ongava’s Rhino Programme since 2012. Under her guidance, the groundbreaking work conducted on the reserve, including genetics studies and research on population health, ensures that every intervention is carefully informed and every rhino has the best chance at thriving in the wild. At the heart of this, the genetic research ensures healthy bloodlines and reduces the risk of inbreeding, safeguarding the resilience of future generations.


The team also manages a notching program that contributes to both protection and research through the identification and careful monitoring of each individual. Discreet tracking technology is deployed across the reserve, allowing the team to monitor movement, behaviour, and overall well-being, while also supporting security and research programs that guide conservation decisions.

Beyond daily protection, Ongava contributes to broader scientific understanding. From feeding preference studies to climate-change population modelling, these research initiatives help predict the pressures rhinos may face in years to come. Each insight brings us closer to ensuring that rhinos not only survive, but prosper in their natural habitats.

Rhinos are more than icons of Africa’s wilderness. They are an umbrella species, whose survival helps preserve entire ecosystems and countless other creatures that share their habitat. When calves run alongside their mothers and the plains teem with life once again, it is a reminder of why this work matters.

And every guest who leaves Ongava with a deeper understanding of the effort required to protect these animals becomes a partner in the ongoing story of their survival.

Conservation is a responsibility that cannot be carried alone. By visiting Ongava, learning its stories, and sharing them with the world, guests become part of the solution. Here, in this corner of Namibia, hope endures.

As long as rhinos roam the Ongava plains, the team will continue to stand guard with people, with science, and with K9’s at their side. Protecting the land and the generations yet to come.

"Rhinos are extraordinary creatures - prehistoric, yet still powerfully present and awe inspiring in this modern world. To roam this small piece of dusty land with them is a privilege.
The threats facing our planet’s wildlife today are too vast to fully comprehend. And while human activity is at the root of many of these challenges, people are also key to the solution.
On World Rhino Day, and every day, we honour the resilience of rhinos, and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to secure their future. Thank you for being part of the solution." 

World Rhino Day

Namibia has long stood as a beacon of conservation tourism, and at the heart of this movement is Ongava Game Reserve. More than just a safari destination, Ongava is a living example of how tourism and conservation can thrive together. I have had the privilege of experiencing Ongava both as a curious guest and as an associate research scientist at the Ongava Research Center, an experience that has shaped my understanding of what’s possible when passionate people work together for wildlife.

Discovering Conservation Through Collaboration: From Namibia to Nepal

In 2024, while advising a small, community-driven snow leopard conservation program in Nepal, we reached a crossroads. Interest was growing in using tourism to support conservation in the Himalayas, and I knew we could learn from some of the best. A plan was formed: bring my Nepali colleagues to Namibia to see, firsthand, how Ongava has successfully woven tourism and conservation into the fabric of its success.

Fast forward to June 2025. Ongava’s gracious team welcomed three of my closest Nepali conservation partners. Our time together was brief, but the impact was lasting. We explored every corner of Ongava, staying at the inviting lodge where thoughtful details make guests feel at home, and spending hours at the world-class Visitor Centre, a masterclass in storytelling and conservation messaging. The highlight of our visit was engaging with the bright minds at the Ongava Research Center, where we witnessed how science and tourism work hand in hand to safeguard Namibia’s iconic wildlife.

For my colleagues, the experience was transformative. One reflected, “I’ll never forget how Ongava so effortlessly blended a thriving business with conservation that truly matters.” Another was struck by the openness of the team, who generously shared knowledge big and small. Their notebooks and their imaginations were full of ideas to bring home to the Himalayas.

For me, this visit was a reaffirmation that travel, at its best, is about connection. It is about learning from one another, sharing what we know, and building something greater than ourselves. As the saying goes, teamwork really does make the dream work. And sometimes, all it takes is a collaborative journey, like the one we shared at Ongava, to turn inspiration into action.

In a world where biodiversity loss continues to threaten ecosystems and communities alike, Ongava’s commitment to conservation has taken on an inspiring new form through the restoration, rehabilitation, and celebration of Namibia’s indigenous plant life. Nestled within the shared campus of Ongava Research Centre (ORC) and Anderssons at Ongava, this effort is quietly transforming the landscape into a living library of Namibia’s botanical heritage.

Rooted in Restoration: Ongava’s Indigenous Plant Rehabilitation Project

“In every leaf, in every bloom, in every whisper of wildgrass, nature springs to life in a shifting tapestry of colours, scents, and textures."

Under the guidance of horticulturalist Rainer Raue, the project aims to establish more than 100 species of native trees and shrubs on the grounds. Each one is thoughtfully selected not only for its ecological importance but also for its cultural value and conservation status. A walking trail established through this natural collection is more than a scenic route. It is a place of quiet reflection, where visitors can pause in the shade of an acacia or marvel at the resilience of an aloe. It offers an invitation to respect the land, its diversity, and the legacy we must protect.

So far, 95 species have been documented, including rare and localised specimens such as the Giant Quiver Tree (

, of which only three out of 28 sourced seeds have successfully germinated. These slow-growing plants are being cultivated with patience and care for eventual out-planting.

Among the most remarkable stories is that of the 

 genus, Namibia’s trunk-forming succulents colloquially known as "Kobas." Once confiscated by the NamPol Protected Resources Unit and donated to Ongava for safekeeping, three of Namibia’s four 

 species are now thriving at Ongava. The final species (

) is expected to be added soon, completing the collection. These ancient-looking plants stand as symbols of endurance and offer a powerful reminder of why conservation work is so vital.

In recent years, Namibia has seen an uptick in plant poaching, targeting rare and endangered species. As a result, Ongava has now also become a designated rehabilitation site for confiscated plant specimens, offering a safe haven where these rescued species can recover and grow under expert care. The success of this effort reinforces Ongava’s role as a guardian not only of wildlife but also of the country’s threatened flora.

Rainer’s efforts also extend beyond Ongava’s borders. He has successfully sourced and begun cultivating the rare “halfmens” (

), both of which are now considered endangered or locally extinct in Namibia. Seeds were secured from international botanical collections and nurtured under the harsh but rewarding conditions of Ongava’s landscape.

However, this is only the beginning. A “botanical wish list” of 60 to 80 additional indigenous species is currently being compiled. Plans are underway for seed collection trips in collaboration with Leevi Nanyeni, Chief Curator of the National Botanical Garden. These species will be grown and shared with both the ORC and the Garden, enriching national collections and reinforcing collaboration between conservation institutions.

All plants are now being labelled using Ongava’s newly designed botanical name plate system. Each label creates an educational opportunity for visitors, researchers, and future generations.

This botanical vision forms part of Ongava’s broader biodiversity strategy. The project serves as a testament to proactive and grounded conservation that recognises the importance of preserving life above ground as well as protecting what lies beneath.

Thanks to the dedication of Rainer Raue, Stuart Crawford, Corne Cocklin, Abigail Guerier, Edward Eiseb, Derek Moore, and the collaboration with Leevi Nanyeni and the National Botanical Garden, this project is not only planting trees. It is planting a future rooted in knowledge, nurtured by passion, and blooming with possibility.

For more on the unique flora of Ongava and the conservation importance of plantlife in Namibia, visit:

At Ongava Game Reserve, every corner of the wilderness tells a story. Some are easy to witness on safari, such as lion prides lounging in the shade or rhinos grazing peacefully at a waterhole. Others remain hidden in the quiet of the night or deep in the bush. To reveal these unseen moments, we had the privilege of working with renowned British wildlife photographer Will Burrard-Lucas, whose groundbreaking camera trap systems have transformed the way we view wildlife.

Capturing Ongava’s Secrets: Will Burrard-Lucas and His Camera Traps

With over a decade as a wildlife photographer, Will Burrard-Lucas combines inventive technology with storytelling to bring the natural world closer to global audiences. He created his first remote-camera device, BeetleCam, in 2009 and founded Camtraptions Ltd shortly after. Since 2010 he has focused on capturing elusive wildlife including rare melanistic leopards, black panthers and forest elephants, publishing photo books to raise conservation awareness. 

Will is celebrated worldwide for developing innovative tools that push the boundaries of wildlife photography. His BeetleCam, a remote-controlled buggy fitted with a camera, brought us eye-level perspectives of some of Africa’s most majestic animals. His DSLR camera traps, housed in custom casings and triggered by motion sensors, have redefined nocturnal and elusive animal photography. For over a decade, he has placed these traps in some of the most challenging environments on earth, from the rainforests of Congo to the savannas of East Africa. His images have revealed secretive species such as forest elephants, golden cats, and leopards, animals that even researchers rarely encounter. Each photograph is more than a portrait; it is a piece of evidence that inspires conservation and deepens our understanding of the natural world.

When Will joined us at Ongava, he set out to capture the reserve’s untold stories using his trusted camera traps. Guided by his expertise in design and placement, the traps were positioned in prime areas where animals move naturally, near waterholes, along game paths, and at secluded clearings. Over time, the cameras revealed an impressive lineup of Ongava’s residents: a lion patrolling under starlight, a leopard moving silently through the night, both brown and spotted hyenas on the prowl, a majestic black rhino and a white rhino grazing peacefully, an oryx grazing quietly, and even a curious porcupine bristling with quills as it shuffled past the lens.

All of these moments were captured in striking black and white, a choice that strips away distraction and draws the eye to raw expressions, textures, and contrasts. The absence of colour adds a timeless quality to each frame, highlighting the wild essence of Ongava in a way that feels both intimate and powerful.

These candid moments, captured without disturbance, offer a rare glimpse into wildlife behavior when humans are not present. They remind us of the sheer diversity that thrives within Ongava’s protected wilderness. Camera trapping is never without challenges, as Will has often discovered in his work. Elephants tamper with equipment, ants gnaw at seals, and heavy branches can topple housings. Yet the resilience of his systems, combined with patience and field knowledge, continues to deliver remarkable imagery. Ongava was no exception, and every new set of photographs felt like unwrapping a hidden treasure of the reserve.

The power of these images lies not just in their beauty but in their ability to connect people to nature. Just as Will’s projects in Congo have drawn global attention to threatened forest species, his time at Ongava demonstrates the importance of protecting Namibia’s biodiversity. Every lion caught mid-stride and every rhino under moonlight is a reminder of what we stand to lose and what we strive to conserve. 

Welcoming Will Burrard-Lucas to Ongava was more than a photographic opportunity. It was a meeting of shared values. His technology and artistry, combined with Ongava’s commitment to conservation, created a visual archive of life on the reserve that will inspire guests, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Through these camera trap images, we are invited to witness the untamed rhythms of the wild, moments unseen yet forever preserved. 

On the rugged Etosha Ridge, where stone and sky meet in timeless harmony, stands a tree that has captured the imagination of generations: the Moringa ovalifolia. Known as the Phantom Tree or Sprokiesboom, this remarkable species is part of Namibia’s botanical heritage, and Ongava is proud to share its story with our guests as part of our immersive activities

The Ancient Moringa ovalifolia of Ongava

On the rugged Etosha Ridge, where stone and sky meet in timeless harmony, stands a tree that has captured the imagination of generations: the 

. Known as the Phantom Tree or Sprokiesboom, this remarkable species is part of Namibia’s botanical heritage, and Ongava is proud to share its story with our guests as a new and immersive activity.

 is found across the rocky landscapes of southern Angola and northern Namibia, where it thrives on mountain slopes and ridges. At Ongava, one such tree rises proudly from the side of a small mountain. A short looped path leads guests gently around the hillside to its base. Here, the silence of the landscape is broken only by the call of birds or the distant sound of wildlife, creating an atmosphere of reverence as visitors arrive at its broad trunk and feathery canopy.

With the guidance of the Ongava team under the leadership of Frances Chase of the Namibian Botanical Garden, work is underway to establish the age of this particular tree. Early estimates suggest it may be around 500 years old, though the study continues. Its endurance is credited to the rocky environment that has shielded it from many of the hardships faced by trees on the reserve.

The Moringa tree is a distinctive presence. Its thick, pale trunk supports a crown of fine leaves and, from December to May, clusters of delicate white flowers. Long pendulous pods, triangular in shape, appear later in the season and split into three when mature. Traditionally, the tree has provided both food and medicine, with its roots once used by herdsmen in times of scarcity.

. Elephants often rub their bodies against these trees, leaving deep, obvious markings on the bark that stand out against its surface. On rocky slopes, elephants navigate the terrain with remarkable ease, a testament to their resilience and resourcefulness.

This experience is more than an introduction to a single tree. It is a journey into the interwoven world of flora and fauna, a chance to understand how one species supports the life around it while standing as a symbol of endurance and history.

Ongava is delighted to offer the Moringa tree experience to our guests as part a of our excursions on the reserve. This is an activity that welcomes families with children from around sixteen years and older able to safely enjoy the walk under the guidance of our experienced team. It is a moment to share in the wonder of a tree that has endured for centuries and continues to inspire all who encounter it.

At Ongava, every activity is designed not only to deepen the connection between people and nature but also to nurture a greater understanding of why conservation matters. The 

 is one more way we invite our guests to experience the living heritage of this landscape and to leave with a renewed sense of care for the wild places of our world. 

Whispers

Guest Adventures

Where the wild is met most directly

Guest Adventures

As the year draws to a close, there is a particular stillness that settles over Ongava Game Reserve.

Behind the Scenes

Fires in Etosha: A Season of Smoke and Strength

Behind the Scenes

Whispers of Grass and Gratitude: Ongava’s Gift to the Hai//om Etosha San

Conservation Chronicles

Ongava’s Rhinos: The Heartbeat of the Reserve

Ongava Through Their Lens

Discovering Conservation Through Collaboration: From Namibia to Nepal

Conservation Chronicles

Rooted in Restoration: Ongava’s Indigenous Plant Rehabilitation Project

Ongava Through Their Lens

Capturing Ongava’s Secrets: Will Burrard-Lucas and His Camera Traps

Guest Adventures

The Ancient Moringa ovalifolia of Ongava

Whispers

Guest Adventures

Where the wild is met most directly

Guest Adventures

As the year draws to a close, there is a particular stillness that settles over Ongava Game Reserve.

Behind the Scenes

Fires in Etosha: A Season of Smoke and Strength

Behind the Scenes

Whispers of Grass and Gratitude: Ongava’s Gift to the Hai//om Etosha San

Conservation Chronicles

Ongava’s Rhinos: The Heartbeat of the Reserve

Ongava Through Their Lens

Discovering Conservation Through Collaboration: From Namibia to Nepal

Conservation Chronicles

Rooted in Restoration: Ongava’s Indigenous Plant Rehabilitation Project

Ongava Through Their Lens

Capturing Ongava’s Secrets: Will Burrard-Lucas and His Camera Traps

Guest Adventures

The Ancient Moringa ovalifolia of Ongava

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