Okonjima Plains camp is one of four accommodation options within the private Okonjima nature reserve. The other three being the Villa, Bush Suite, and Luxury Bush Camp. All are excellent and we would have no hesitation in recommending them. The Africat foundation was set up within Okonjima’s beautiful 220km2 with its primary function being the protection and conservation of cheetah, leopard, and other wild carnivores. A stay here gives the opportunity to learn about these animals, see them close-up and learn about the work that Africat does.

There are a wide range of exciting activities here including tracking leopard and spotted hyena, day and night game drives within the reserve where you can see rhino, giraffe, zebra, and a host of plains wildlife as well as the big cats that the reserve is famous for. Rhino tracking on foot is also possible as is pangolin tracking on foot and visits to the Africat centre is a highlight for any visit here. Finally, there are three safe self-guided walking trails where you can enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the reserve.

The centre of the camp is a huge building affectionately nicknamed the barn, and you can see why with its high roof and ‘barn like’ structure. However, inside this is a tasteful area to relax and dine and has WiFi. Here you will find the gift shop and reception, three comfortable lounge areas with fireplaces and on the lower level the dining area. The back of the ‘barn’ is floor to ceiling windows and looks out onto the bush and a waterhole. Just outside is a terrace with a couple of pizza ovens and a barbeque. Tucked around the corner from the main building is the swimming pool and sun lounger area, the perfect place to relax when not out enjoying the wildlife.

There are three room categories here, six affordable garden rooms which we tend not to recommend because these are basic, small and don’t have any views, 14 standard rooms and 10 view rooms. Incidentally all of the rooms have a view of the surrounding bush apart from the garden rooms although the views from the ‘view rooms’ are the better of the two. All of the standard and view rooms come with two double beds, mini fridge, mini safe, tea and coffee making facilities, a telephone and ensuite facilities with twin washbasins, a toilet and shower. The standard rooms have a small veranda with two directors’ chairs while the view rooms have a working desk and comfortable chair as well as a large veranda with two day beds and sun loungers.