FIRES IN ETOSHA: A SEASON OF SMOKE AND STRENGTH
Wildfires have recently swept through parts of Etosha, but Ongava remains safe and fully operational. We share how our teams supported in the response and why your safari experience continues, with only a distant haze as a reminder of the bush’s resilience - aerial view Wednesday 24th September 2025 https://youtube.com/shorts/RolBDJQTW-o?si=7UnEaJ2JTSrqVGlz
The dry season in Namibia carries its own rhythm. This year, the abundance of last season’s rains left the savanna thick with grass. A blessing, which turned into fuel for the fire once the winds began to turn.
In recent weeks, fires have swept through sections of Etosha National Park. Guests at Ongava may have noticed smoke drifting on the horizon, caught the faint glow of flames far away, or heard stories of fire lines battled through the night.
It is natural to feel concern. Yet through it all Etosha remained open to guest, and Ongava remained safe. Our lodges, staff, and wildlife viewing areas on Ongava were not affected by the fires. Our game drives into the park continued as planned, with minor adjustments to avoid recently burned sections.
Behind the scenes, Ongava was part of the coordinated response. Our teams stood shoulder to shoulder with park authorities and neighbouring landowners. Our teams supported firefighting efforts both on the ground and in the air, working alongside park officials to contain and redirect the flames. As confimed by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism the fires are extinguished, with only blackened patches on the landscape as reminders of the season past.
Still, fire leaves its marks. Blackened earth, scorched trees, and sometimes wildlife in need. While the bush will recover, the impact is real. We ask our guests to approach these moments with sensitivity. Should you encounter any wildlife that appears injured or in distress, please let our team or the park officials know at once, so the right response teams can be mobilised.
We are also humbled by the generosity of those who have asked about donating. While there may indeed be a need for support in the days to come, we advise waiting until an official directive is given. This ensures any help is channeled where it can do the most good, such as veterinary supplies or fodder for wildlife when required.
Above all, please know that the safety of our guests, staff, and wildlife remains our highest priority. Ongava is in constant contact with park authorities and conservation officials, and together we remain committed to protecting this extraordinary place through every season.
For travellers, Etosha continues to offer the beauty, wildlife, and sense of wonder it always has. The fires are now behind us a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of the wild.
Fires In Etosha: FAQ
IS IT SAFE TO VISIT ETOSHA RIGHT NOW?
Yes. Etosha National Park remains open to visitors. Some inner areas and routes may experience temporary access restrictions.
HAS ONGAVA RESERVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THE FIRES?
No. The fires were within Etosha National Park and did not entered the Ongava reserve. All our lodges, staff, and wildlife viewing areas remained safe throughout.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY VISIT?
You can look forward to the same exceptional safari experience Ongava is known for. All activities and services are running as normal, wildlife sightings remain excellent, and the landscapes continue to inspire. In some areas of Etosha, you may see recently burned grassland, which is a natural part of the dry season. However, this does not affect the quality of your journey.
WILL MY SAFARI EXPERIENCE BE DISRUPTED?
For any potential future threats we have strong contingency plans in place as part of our safety commitment, but these have not been needed and the situation remains stable.
IS IT STILL WORTH TRAVELING?
Yes. Etosha and Ongava remain fully open and operational. At Ongava our guests will continue to enjoy outstanding wildlife experiences, with minimal impact from the recent fires.
WAS THE WILDLIFE IN ETOSHA AFFECTED?
Most wildlife naturally moves away from fire zones. Park authorities are monitoring the situation closely to provide support where necessary.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SEE INJURED ANIMALS?
Please notify your guide immediately, report sightings to Ongava staff or Etosha park officials. Information is passed directly to the teams who can respond.
CAN I DONATE TO HELP?
Yes. Once needs are clearly identified, donations can be directed to specific causes (such as veterinary supplies or fodder) to ensure funds are used appropriately.
SHOULD I CHANGE MY TRAVEL PLANS?
There is no need. Travel to Ongava and Etosha continues as usual, and your safety is our priority. Our game drives into the park continue as planned, with minor adjustments to the routes travelled in order to avoid recently burned sections. We remain in close contact with park authorities and will provide updates if circumstances change.
Source: https://www.ongava.com/whispers/behind-the-scenes/fires-in-etosha
