Read 1 traveller review of Okonjima Villa

Overlooking a small waterhole, Okonjima Family Villa is about 10km from Okonjima's Main Camp and its Bush Camp.

The villa has two separate, private suites, together with a 'main house' which contains two en-suite bedrooms, each with an en suite bathrooms. This whole 'villa' is kept for the exclusive use of one group – and can accommodate up to eight adults and four children.

The lovely main house has two bedrooms each have their own en suite bathrooms, which have indoor and outdoor showers, and a bath with a very special view. Plus a large lounge and dining area, complete with an open, wood-burning fireplace. The modern kitchen has wine and soft drink coolers, gas and electric cookers, and a large refrigerator.

Outside is a stunning infinity swimming pool, surrounded on three sides by wooden decking, and a walkway to an open, shaded 'sala' – which has a roof fan for the days when the air is still!

The two separate and very stylish thatched suites each stand about 40–50m from the main house; one on each side. They have air-conditioning, high airy roofs with fans and heating, for the cooler months.

Large, glass-panelled folding doors look out onto spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area, and these open doorways roll-down canvas gauze screens. Each an internet connection, work spaceand a well-stocked mini bar. The en suite bathroom has inside or outdoor bush-shower – with a view, of course.

A personal host(ess) and chef run the villa, and there's a dedicated guide and 4WD to ensure exclusive activities here – which follow the same patterns that Okonjima follows. So you can walk around the ranch on your own, hop on a guided 4WD, or follow a trail with one of your hosts, who will illustrate the lifestyle of some of the region's original peoples. A night hide helps enormously in spotting elusive nocturnal animals, like honey badger and porcupine.

Big cats are the main attraction at Okonjima. Namibia has over 20% of the world's cheetah –and Okonjima is the base for the Africat Foundation, which is devoted to big cats - cheetah, leopard, lion and even caracal. A stay of one or two nights here will usually give you the chance to see big cats close up.

Lodge overview

Lodge type: Safari

No. of bedrooms: 4 bedrooms

Season: Open Year Round

Ideal length of stay: 2-3 nights

Geographics

Location: Central Highlands, Namibia

Directions: 48km south of Otjiwarongo on the B1 you will see a clearly marked signpost for Okonjima. Head west for about 24km along this track and follow the sings directing you towards the villa.

Accessible by: Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Key personnel

Owner: Independent / Owner Run

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Food quality: Although we haven't stayed at the villa itself, we know from experience that Okonjima's kitchen produces food of a very high standard. Food is usually not only excellent, but also very well-presented here, and you have complete control over your eating times, and emnu, if you're staying in the family villa.

Dining style: Group Meals

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Room service: Yes - if requested.

Drinks included: Tea and coffee are included, all other drinks are usually extra. Drinks on activities are included.

Special interests

Family holidays: For a family with older children, who want the luxury of an exclusive-use villa, completer with private chef and guide – this is the perfect place! It's a top-end and very beautiful place. - See more of our suggestions of the best places for family holidays in Namibia

Photographic: For great, close-up shots of the big cats – especially leopard and cheetah – then Okonjima ought to be high on your list. - See more of our suggestions of the best places for photographic in Namibia

Wildlife: Okonjima is famed for its work with the big cats, and this is a very exclusive place to stay whilst here. Expert to be able to view big cats at close quarters. Obviously, some are habituated rather than completely wild; but if they were you wouldn't be able to approach them so closely! - See more of our suggestions of the best places for wildlife in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children: Ok if over 8 and well behaved.

Age restrictions: No children under the age of 8 years.

Generally recommended for children: Yes

Central communications

Power supply: Mains Electricity

Health & safety

Medical care: Nearest doctor is in Otjiwarongo.

Dangerous animals: Moderate Risk

Security measures: Armed guards at the entrance gate.

Fire safety: Fire extinguishers in each room and in central areas.

Extras

Disabled access: On Request

Accepted payment: They accept payment by Visa, Mastercard, Amex, travellers cheques and cash (N$, ZAR, US$, €, £)

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