Okonjima Nature Reserve, 240km north of Windhoek on the B1 and D2515, is the home of the AfriCat Foundation, one of Namibia’s most significant large carnivore conservation organisations. AfriCat rehabilitates cheetah and leopard that have been removed from farmland (often as problem animals) and either releases them where possible or maintains them in a large, semi-wild reserve enclosure.
The Leopard Tracking Experience
One of Okonjima’s most sought-after activities, the Leopard Tracking Experience takes you into the Okonjima Nature Reserve alongside an experienced guide to search for one of the reserve’s resident leopards. As part of the AfriCat Foundation’s long-standing research programme, several adult leopards are fitted with radio collars, allowing guides to locate them using specialised telemetry equipment while contributing to ongoing conservation monitoring.
Travelling by open safari vehicle, you’ll have the opportunity to observe these elusive predators behaving naturally in their wild habitat while learning about their ecology, behaviour, and the research that helps protect them. Every outing is different, making each leopard encounter a unique and rewarding wildlife experience.
Dauer: Approximately 2 to 3 hours. Morning and afternoon departures available.
Pangolin Tracking Experience
Available exclusively to guests staying a minimum of two nights, Pangolin Tracking offers a rare opportunity to search for one of Africa’s most elusive and endangered mammals. Accompanied by a specialist guide or researcher, you’ll track a free-roaming ground pangolin on foot while learning about its behaviour, ecology, and the conservation efforts helping to protect the species.
This specialised activity takes place during the pangolin’s most active hours, with departure times varying seasonally. Group sizes are limited to a maximum of six participants to ensure a low-impact experience. As sightings depend on the animal’s movements and welfare, they cannot be guaranteed, and all tracking is conducted quietly and at a respectful distance.
Dauer: Approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on seasonal conditions and pangolin activity. Available only to guests staying two or more nights.
Overnight at Okonjima
Okonjima is one of Namibia’s premier wildlife destinations, where even a single night’s stay offers an unforgettable safari experience with afternoon and morning activities. Guests with two nights can enjoy a more relaxed pace, participate in a wider selection of activities, and increase their chances of memorable wildlife encounters.
Accommodation caters to a range of travel styles, from the comfortable Okonjima Plains Camp to the more exclusive and luxurious Okonjima Bush Camp. For the ultimate private safari, the exclusive Okonjima African Villa offers a fully personalised experience. Campsites are also available for self-drive travellers and overlanders looking to enjoy the reserve on a more modest budget.
Distance from Windhoek: 240km north; approximately 2.5 hours. Most visitors combine Okonjima with the Waterberg Plateau (65km further north) and Etosha on the standard northbound circuit.