Little Ongava

A uniquely spoiling lodge for just 6 guests, set atop a rocky outcrop at the heart of the Ongava Reserve, 5 hours north of Windhoek

If your safari idyll is all about fleeing the crowds whilst getting close to the wildlife, Little Ongava would make a brilliant choice. The setting of the lodge, which has just 3 suites sleeping a maximum of 6 guests, is as spectacular as they come, straddling the highest point of a rocky outcrop of dolomite with soaring views out across mopane woodlands to the southern border of Etosha Park.

The mission statement of this lapa-style lodge was to create a truly intimate and cosy retreat in the wildest of settings. The main lodge is a triumph of Afro-ethnic chic, where masks from Burkina Fasso, woven plates from Ghana, Congolese hangings and Ethiopian trays are set beneath high pole and thatch ceilings. Wraparound openings draw your gaze out to Little Ongava's best feature, a huge expanse of deck where alfresco meals are events never to be forgotten. Track lion, leopard, cheetah and rhino in the Ongava Reserve, then hunker down back at the lodge and luxuriate in your private plunge pool; this place is the proof that Small can be synonymous with Beautiful.

Highs

• Expect pampering to perfection at one of Namibia's most intimate and spoiling lodges
• Glass-wall bathrooms, roll-top baths; this is probably Namibia's most luxurious safari set-up
• Dine beneath the stars, head off on night game drives, then return to your private plunge pool
• Wave goodbye to the rest of the world and cosy up with a loved one: every day feels like a honeymoon here
• Abandon yourself to the uniquely beautiful setting where Room with a View takes on a whole new meaning

Lows

• Be prepared to dine at one table with your fellow guests unless you prefer to eat alone in the intimacy of your suite
• Only 1 suite has a proper kingsized bed, although the other 2 can be made up as doubles
• A stay at Little Ongava is an expensive treat, though you won't regret pushing that Namibian boat out