Travel Adviser : Playing around with big cats in Namibia

HOW TO GET THERE

From Windhoek head north on the B1, through Okahandja. Just after the sign ‘Otjiwarongo 50 km’, turn left onto the D2515. Okonjima is clearly signposted on the D2515. The distance from the B1 is about 24 km.

The lodge has a landing strip and you should enquire directly for the co-ordinates.

WHO TO CONTACT

Reservations can be made by writing to Donna or Rosalea Hanssen at PO Box 793, Otjiwarongo, Namibia. Telephone (09264-67) 30-4563/4, fax (09264-67) 30-4565.

HOW MUCH IT COSTS

Rates start from US$165 (R990) a person a day sharing or US$190 (R1 140) single. These prices include all meals as well as morning and evening activities.

WHAT TO TAKE

The most important thing is your passport. Since you will be doing walks, take good shoes or light-weight boots, sun hat, sun screen, binoculars, camera and film and a windbreaker for vehicle trips.

If you are going in winter, remember that the nights can be very cold. Also take a swimming costume. A field guide for bird identification will come in handy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about suitable malaria prophylaxis, especially if you plan going further north during your trip.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The AfriCat Foundation is closed to the public from around mid-December to the end of January.

Namibia has daylight saving time from April to September. Adjust your watches accordingly to an hour earlier than South African time.

Because there are potentially dangerous animals such as leopards and cheetahs on the loose, no children under 12 are allowed at Okonjima as their safety cannot be guaranteed.