Onduli Ridge

OVERVIEW:

Onduli Ridge is a small, innovatively designed camp on the Doro Nawas Conservancy in the southern part of Damaraland. It’s named after the local term for giraffe in this area. Visitors will likely encounter various desert-adapted species along the Aba Huab and Huab river valleys, while gazing at spectacular views of Namibia’s highest mountain, the Brandberg. A unique range of activities includes solar e-biking and visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Twyfelfontein, where thousands of ancient San rock art engravings are found. Rates at Onduli Ridge are full board and include accommodation, all meals, local and premium brand drinks, laundry, activities, and transfers from Onduli Airstrip.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Onduli Ridge is located on a private concession in the Doro Nawas Conservancy, just south of Damaraland’s Brandberg Mountain. Guests usually arrive by light aircraft at Onduli Airstrip, which is a 20-minute drive from the camp.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT ONDULI RIDGE: 

Onduli Ridge features six spacious, light-filled suites nestled amongst granite boulders, with king-size or twin beds accompanied by a cooling evening breeze system. Louvred shutters can be opened completely to reveal spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the beds can be rolled out onto the private deck for ambient nights spent beneath a tapestry of stars. Inside, every room is furnished simply, with plenty of wood and neutral earth tones, wrap-around mosquito nets, bedside tables with plug points and overhead reading lights, and comfy bean bags to sink into, book in hand. There’s also an area for storing luggage and clothes, a writing desk, an electronic safe, a mini-bar, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Each semi-open-air bathroom includes a rain shower, a flush toilet, and twin basins. Outside the unit is a spacious deck with a seating arrangement, the perfect spot for admiring the camp’s truly breathtaking views. Wi-Fi is available in all the suites.

The communal area at Onduli Ridge blends seamlessly with the natural environment, while continuing to maximise the views and indoor/outdoor space from every angle. There’s a stylish lounge, a bar, a library, and a dining area with a fireplace for keeping warm during the cooler, winter months. Guests can also enjoy meals al fresco in the camp’s open-air dining space, where delicious pizzas are served from a wood-fired oven. The refreshing swimming pool provides the perfect place to relax during the hotter hours of the day, accompanied by a cold drink from the bar while gazing out at the surroundings. Onduli Ridge is entirely solar powered.

ACTIVITIES AT ONDULI RIDGE:

Onduli Ridge offers some unique activities specific to Damaraland and caters to all ages.

• 4×4 excursions – This region is known for its remarkable desert-adapted wildlife. 4×4 excursions take guests to the Aba Huab and Huab River valleys in search of elephant and other big game, and to gain perspective on the surrounding landscape.
• Twyfelfontein visits – Twyfelfontein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for its extraordinary collection of ancient San rock art. A truly special experience unique to Damaraland.
• E-biking – Venture out on a solar-powered e-bike and explore some of the many surrounding trails – a great way to experience the landscape up close.
• Guided walks – Guided walks allow guests to explore the area on foot and gain insight into some of the smaller, more intricate details of this fascinating ecosystem.
• Rhino experience – Available for stays of 3 nights or more, head out by vehicle to meet some of the local rhino rangers and encounter these majestic and rare creatures in their natural habitat.

*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.