Etosha National Park

This 22,912 km² park in the northwest of Namibia is a true animal paradise. Approximately 25% of the park consists of the Etosha Pan. This gigantic white salt pan, once part of a now dried up large lake, can be seen from space. The name Etosha therefore means "great white place" or "place of mirrors. The pan lies dry most of the year, but is filled with water during the rainy season, attracting thousands of flamingos and pelicans. In addition to this immense shimmering plain, the landscape of Etosha National Park consists of as many as eight different vegetation zones, including grasslands and different types of savanna forests. This diverse landscape attracts an abundance of wildlife that make Etosha one of the best places in Africa to spot big game. Among others, the world's largest concentration of black rhinos and four of the Big Five are found in Etosha. The park unfortunately houses no buffalo, but a total of 110 species of mammals and 340 species of birds, including giraffe, wildebeest, lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant and several species of antelope. The animals migrate to the many water sources scattered throughout the park. These both natural and artificial water sources are therefore the best places to see the wildlife. The well-maintained road network connecting the water sources make Etosha one of the best parks in Africa for a self-drive safari. Park your car next to one of the many water sources and wait for the large groups of lions, elephants, springbok and gemsbok to emerge from their hiding places to drink water. Some water sources have special photography platforms and are illuminated at night so you can watch the animals even in the dark. Etosha National Park is the dream of every photographer, nature lover and 'self-drive' adventurer.

Etosha National Park highlights.

Okaukuejo restcamp.

Okaukuejo, located at the southern end of the park, is Etosha's oldest and largest restcamp. From Okaukuejo you can visit the Etosha Pan, the 'Sprokies Forest' and several water sources, among others. Besides a campsite and bungalows, you will find in the restcamp a gas station, a store, a public telephone, a swimming pool and a restaurant. The restcamp is located next to the Okaukuejo watering hole. This water source is illuminated at night and elephants and lions are often seen there, especially between June and December. According to many, this watering hole is the best place in Africa to see the endangered black rhino. Because Etosha National Park gets crowded, we recommend booking your overnight stays in advance.

Namutoni restcamp

Namutoni, located in the east of the park, is the most popular restcamp in Etosha after Okaukuejo. Of all the restcamps, Namutoni has the most water sources nearby. In addition to the vast Etosha Pan you will find the smaller salt pan 'Fisher's Pan' which is a paradise for bird watchers. Namutoni restcamps is built in an old German fort, which gives it a unique atmosphere. From the walls of the fort you can enjoy elevated views of the King Nehale watering hole and beautiful sunsets. This restcamp also has a swimming pool, restaurants, a store and a gas station.

Halali restcamp

Hallali restcamp is located in the heart of Etosha, halfway between Namutoni and Okaukuejo and near some of the most popular water sources. The restcamp is nestled between several hills and surrounded by dense vegetation. Leopards, rhinos and elephants are often seen around the adjacent illuminated waterhole. The nearby Goas watering hole is also worth a visit. This oasis-like natural spring is a popular spot for many birds, impala, wildebeest, zebra and elephant. Halali restcamp has a swimming pool, restaurants, a store and a gas station.

Olifantsrus restcamp

As the name suggests, this restcamp's landscaped water source is popular with elephants. Enjoy these imposing beasts from a beautiful plateau. Olifantsrus is Etosha's newest camp and the first accommodation in the park to offer only camping sites. This makes you feel even more immersed in the African wilderness. The restcamp is located in the less visited western part of the park, where rare and shy species such as the black-headed impala and black rhino are common. The restcamp has a store and a communal kitchen.

Okondeka watering hole

The Okondeka waterhole is a natural fountain located just north of Okaukuejo. Okondeka is known as one of the best places to see lions with their prey.

Sueda and Salvadora watering hole

The picturesque Sueda and Salvadora waterholes offer beautiful views of the Etosha pan and are good places to spot cheetahs.