Now one of five government operated Namibian Wildlife Resorts accommodations within Etosha National Park, Okaukuejo is the oldest, largest and probably still the most renowned. Very close to the southern gate, Okaukuejo makes for an excellent combination with one of the two other rustic restcamps, Halali or Namutoni, rather than the two newer luxury NWR camps. With over 100 accommodation options, from camping to relatively large, comfortable Waterhole Rooms, Okaukuejo doesn’t provide the most peaceful and intimate of safari experiences. There is a tangible campsite feel that is not particularly “”African”” in nature, with relatively poor buffet food, a busy bar and various entertainment areas, while the swimming pool is cool and refreshing but often busy.

Where Okaukuejo really comes into its own though is the very fine waterhole, in a park where game viewing often involves finding the best waterhole available and watching the animals come to you. At night in the dry season, guests can relax with a drink in the shaded, floodlit seating area and watch a thrilling parade of animals which might include rhino, elephant, lion, leopard, zebra and various antelope, without moving from their comfortable vantage point. This is one of Etosha’s finest game viewing activities in itself, and Okaukuejo is perfectly tailored for safari self-drivers, but activities can also be booked and we would recommend you try a guided night drive.