This was the first restcamp to open, and is the administrative hub of the park and the centre of the Etosha Ecological Institute. It is situated at the western end of the pan, about 120km north of Outjo.

One big attraction of this camp is that it overlooks a permanent waterhole which is floodlit at night, giving you a chance to see some of the shy, nocturnal wildlife. The animals that come appear oblivious to the noises from the camp, not noticing the bright lights or the people sitting on benches just behind the low stone wall. The light doesn't penetrate into the dark surrounding bush, but it illuminates the waterhole like a stage – focusing all attention on the animals that come to drink.

During the dry season you would be unlucky not to spot something of interest by just sitting here for a few hours in the evening, so bring a couple of drinks, binoculars, and some warm clothes to settle down and watch. You are virtually guaranteed to see elephant and jackal, while lion and black rhino are very regular visitors. The main annoyance is noise from the bungalows beside the waterhole, or from the many people sitting around.

Accomodation is in luxury and standard bungalows. The camp sites have barbecue facilities and power points, and the rebuilt restaurant serves adequate buffet fare at reasonable prices. Sweets and drinks are available from the kiosk by the swimming pool.

Okaukuejo's shop is well stocked, and opposite reception is the park's only post office, open Mon–Fri 08.30–13.00 and 14.00–16.30, and 08.00–11.00 on Saturday. Nearby is a small round tower, which can be climbed, by a spiral staircase inside, for a good view of the surrounding area. Okaukuejo has a small museum, but this was closed when last visited.