Following last year's wildfire in Etosha National Park, little evidence remains in certain areas. Core visitor areas stayed unaffected after the fire raged toward the end of September.

The blaze caused concern, but five months later, Etosha thrives. All facilities remain open, with main tourist routes and rest camp infrastructure intact. Copious rains have driven nature's recovery, while wildlife activity surges, delighting visitors, though road rehabilitation continues at camp.

Okaukuejo Rest Camp, Etosha's oldest and largest, features a floodlit waterhole next to accommodations.

Katrina Hoases, popularly known as Mrs Kate, who has been the camp manager for 15 years, said, "We have a fantastic waterhole. During dry seasons, many animals frequent it. Everyone visiting Okaukuejo wants to experience this wonderful waterhole with different species."

Occupancy dipped slightly during the December 2025–January 2026 holidays, but Hoases expects improvement post-renovations. "With that renovation, we trust we will boost market confidence to visit us and increase income."

Okaukuejo employs 96 staff across seven departments, from front office to maintenance. Intern cashier Uiire Kapi emphasised, "We must treat everyone the same, regardless of colour or culture, they're all customers."

Customer service training, started by Namibia Wildlife Resorts in 2023, continues here. Hoases noted, "Competition is high. Guests go where they get good service. We encourage staff to give their best, they're paid for it."

The camp offers 104 units and 222 beds, ranging from premier waterhole chalets to family self-catering, accessible units, and a campsite.