Ngepi Camp: Intimate, authentic and wildly beautiful

Tucked away on the banks of the Okavango River in northeastern Namibia, Ngepi Camp is one of southern Africa’s most delightfully unconventional safari destinations.

Situated near Divundu and just a short drive from the renowned Bwabwata National Park, Ngepi offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional lodge experience: trading marble foyers for river reeds, and formality for authenticity.

What immediately sets Ngepi apart is its character. The camp is known for its creatively designed tree houses and open-air bathrooms – some perched above the river with uninterrupted views of hippos drifting past at dusk. Each tree house is individually styled, full of personality and built to blend into the surrounding riverine forest. It’s safari with a sense of humour and heart, where comfort meets creativity.

Wildlife is central to the Ngepi experience. The Okavango River flows gently past the camp, attracting hippo, crocodile and prolific birdlife. Fish eagles call overhead while kingfishers flash between reeds. Guided boat cruises, mokoro trips and game drives offer close-up encounters with this vibrant ecosystem, and day trips into Bwabwata National Park reveal elephant, buffalo, antelope and the occasional big cat.

Unlike more crowded reserves, this region remains wonderfully uncrowded, offering an intimate and unhurried safari atmosphere.

Beyond wildlife, Ngepi Camp has long been a pioneer in community-based tourism. The camp works closely with local conservancies, ensuring tourism revenue directly benefits surrounding communities. This sustainable model not only protects wildlife but also supports livelihoods – making every stay part of a bigger conservation story.

Evenings at Ngepi are simple and memorable. Guests gather at the riverside bar and restaurant, sharing stories under vast African skies painted in orange and violet. The pace is relaxed, the welcome warm and the setting unforgettable.

For travellers seeking something genuine – where the wild still feels wild and the experience feels personal – Ngepi Camp offers a safari that is as soulful as it is scenic. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to connect: with nature, with people and with the rhythm of the Okavango itself.