About Okonjima

Most of Africat's funding comes from the tourist lodge at Okonjima. The Hanssens were very early to recognise the value of eco-tourism and have been running their lodge as such from the very beginning. Visitors are shown where their money is going during their activities, and are given the option to learn even more about the animals and ecosystem they are supporting if they wish.

Most guests visit Okonjima for only a couple of days, but there is such a range of things to do that a week would be easily filled. Within the park, there are some carnivores with collars which are permanent residents. These include several leopards a few hyena, and four of the incredibly rare African wild dog. The leopard and dogs can be tracked, and hyena even on foot, whilst discovering some of the many other resident species on the way. There are several kinds of antelope at Okonjima, as well as zebra, wildebeest, the ubiquitous giraffe and warthog, and many species of bird. Very lucky explorers may also see shyer animals, such as porcupines and smaller cats like the wildcat.
Then of course there are the cheetah collared for rehabilitation, and the welfare section- although welfare is an area that would ideally be cut back, as Africat want as many animals in the wild as possible. Then there is the new education centre and cafe, filled with information about Africat.

The accommodation at Okonjima is spread over two main sites. Main camp consists of many rooms clustered around a large central building;Bush camp is a smaller, slightly more remote version. There are also two beautiful villas. One thing I will never understand is how I often get better mobile signal and Wifi at Main Camp than I do at home in England! And another thing I enjoy at Okonjima is the really very excellent food, including delicious cakes that are very welcome in the early mornings necessary for seeing the wildlife.