Etosha National Park
Located in northern Namibia, Etosha National Park is a wildlife sanctuary unlike any other. Its name means “Great White Place,” a reference to the vast Etosha Salt Pan, a shimmering expanse that dominates the landscape and acts as a magnet for wildlife.
Etosha offers a classic African safari experience with a unique twist: animals gather around natural and artificial waterholes, especially during the dry season, making game viewing exceptionally easy and rewarding — even from your lodge or campsite.
Location
By Road: 4–5 hours drive from Windhoek
By Air: Fly-in to private airstrips near the eastern or southern gates (ideal for luxury travelers)
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (June–October): Prime for wildlife as animals gather at waterholes; less vegetation makes spotting easier
Green Season (November–April): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and superb birdwatching
Top Highlights
Waterhole Game Viewing
Instead of chasing animals, let them come to you. Waterholes like Okaukuejo, Halali, and Okondeka are known for constant wildlife activity — from elephants bathing to lions stalking prey.
Okaukuejo Waterhole
One of Africa’s most famous waterholes, especially at night when it’s floodlit. Expect rhinos, elephants, hyenas, and sometimes leopards — all just meters away.
Self-Drive Safaris
Etosha is one of the best self-drive safari parks in Africa, with excellent roads and signposts. Explore at your pace and feel the thrill of discovering wildlife on your own.
Etosha Pan
After rains, this massive salt pan transforms into a shallow lake, attracting migrating flamingos and pelicans. During dry times, it becomes a moon-like landscape that stretches to the horizon.
Wildlife
Etosha is home to over 110 mammal species, including:
Elephants, black rhinos, and giraffes
Predators: lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas
Antelope galore: springbok, kudu, eland, oryx, dik-dik
Birds: 340+ species including lilac-breasted rollers and raptors
Etosha is also one of the best places in Africa to see black rhino in the wild.