Otjiwa Collection - Thorn Bush Tented Camp

Tracking white rhino on foot is the signature activity. Otjiwa Collection operates three lodges and two villas on one of Namibia's oldest privately owned game reserves in Namibia's Otjozondjupa region. The Thornbush Tented Camp holds ten tented suites with private wooden decks overlooking a riverbed. Each suite includes air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom, and an outdoor shower. Two family suites connect adjoining bedrooms via shared bathrooms. The camp sits within reach of 22 water dams that draw wildlife across the reserve.

Rhino tracking begins in vehicles, then continues on foot once trackers locate the animals. Game drives cross open plains where springbok, giraffe, and warthog graze; white rhino move through the acacia woodlands. Night drives depart after dinner under spotlight, searching for nocturnal species including leopard and smaller predators. Horseback rides take groups of four or fewer through the plains with trained bush horses; guides lead one-hour routes suitable for beginners and older children. Guided e-bike rides cover longer distances across the reserve's terrain with electric pedal assistance.

The Montreal Garden supplies vegetables, herbs, and fruit for meals served in the main lodge. High tea unfolds in the garden with pastries prepared from the harvest. A two-hour cooking class with one of the camp's chefs teaches traditional Ovambo and South African dishes; children aged seven to 13 can join a separate class to make bush pizza over fire. Pure Spa offers treatments from 30 to 60 minutes, including full-body massage and exfoliation. Guided visits to Ombu Village include cultural demonstrations of milk churning, traditional dress, and holy fire rituals.