ONTOUKA REPTILE PARK Dear guests,The Etosha National Park is probably one of Africa's greatest nature reserves, and most definitely Namibia's major tourist attraction. Etosha is home to a wide range of different bird species, elephants, giraffes, herds of springbok, wildebeest, oryx, as well as lions, cheetahs and leopard to name but a few. But also a great variety of reptile species call this semiarid wilderness their home. Namibia as a whole in general is home to a very rich reptile world of over 200 different species, including not only snakes, but also monitors, tortoises, turtles, crocodiles, and may lizards and gecko's. Reptiles, including snakes, form a vital link in the natural balance of the animal kingdom, and despite of this fact do most people feel repulsed by snakes. This can partly be ascribed to a lack of knowledge in respect of the snake's behaviour and the fact that some species are venomous. Snake bites do occur seldom but the wound often does look disgusting and may in some cases even cause the person's death. It is therefore understandable if the uninformed kills a snake first before trying to find out what type of snake it was and whether it did pose a threat to their life or not. Especially, if found in or near their home. However, the killing of a snake in the bush, where it constitutes no danger to a person, is not only useless destruction of animal life, but also represents unnecessary exposure to the possibility of being bitten. Mokuti Lodge is home to the recently completed Ontouka Reptile Park, where guests can observe a variety of Namibia's indigenous reptiles - without any risk, cold sweat or anxiety. All cages were built on a large scale and the layouts have been developed in such a way as to display the animals in their natural environment. Each terrarium is not only fitted with the reptile's needs, but will also give some visual information on the natural environment of the animal. For example is a reptile from the central Namib Desert accommodated in a terrarium that was decorated with material from that particular area. While being at Mokuti Lodge, why don't you take some time, stroll through the park, and get to know a few of Namibia's fascinating and diverse reptile world. All terrariums are fitted with name plates, which also give some detailed information on the respective animals. The reptile park is situated close to the luxury bungalows (Block P). A detailed map is available at reception. The park is open from 7 o'clock in the morning until sunset. Guests may visit the park at their own leisure, or book a guided tour at reception. The tour will take about 1 to 1.5 hours. CURIO SHOP: The Oshaaluwata Curio Shop, equipped with a variety of souvenirs and gift ideas, makes finding that ''special something'' for a friend back home so much easier. MOUNTAIN BIKES:One lady and one gent's mountain bike are available for hire to explore the surroundings. This is at the guest's own risk. The rider has to agree that he/she indemnifies Namibia Resorts International in respect of all actions, proceedings, liability, claims, damages, cost and expenses of whatever nature in relation to or arising out of injuries or death sustained by the rider during the time of his drive on the premises. RULES OF ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK: - The Von Lindequest gate opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. You must return to Mokuti Lodge or your designated rest camp before sunset. Ensure when entering the park you take note of the time indicated on the board informing you of the time the gates close. - Any person entering the Park shall forthwith report to the Namutoni reception office, to pay the entrance fees. - No person shall drive a vehicle in a place other than a road indicated by a signpost, - No person shall drive a vehicle on a road which has been declared closed by the means of a road sign, - No person shall drive faster than 60 km/hr, driving to fast kill's wildlife and causes accidents. - No person shall park to be an inconvenience to others,- No person shall throw away any burning or smouldering object where it may ignite any other object or deposit rubbish anywhere except in containers provided therefor, - No person shall kill, injure or unnecessarily disturb any wild animal in the game park - No person shall at any time make a noise which may disturb another person, - At all times you have to remain in your vehicle, except in one of the camp sites or places as indicated,- Any person entering the park does so at his own risk.- Receipts or tickets issued in payment of services shall be retained by the person to whom it was issued and he shall produce it when requested to do so by an officer. - Every permit holder shall strictly observe the conditions on which the permit is issued to him/her and shall comply with any lawful instructions issued by the officer in charge of the game park or his/her representative. The above is a summarised version of the rules, please you make yourself familiar with all rules and regulations when entering the National Park.