Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park Overview

Etosha National Park is an area which works hard towards keeping its inhabitants safe, especially those rare and endemic. The endangered Black Rhinoceros and native black-faced impala are two such wildlife which, because protected, roam the grasslands of Etosha.

Etosha National Park sports a resume of wildlife that includes hyena, silver-backed jackal, lion, cheetah and leopard prowling the desert land. Gemsbok, curly horned kudu, giraffe and elephant are also to be seen roaming the plains, not to mention the 360 species of birdlife. Experience these brilliant creatures in their natural habitat on a 4x4 safari game drive.

The natural spring and waterholes found in Etosha National Park make it easy to spot wildlife. All you have to do is take a 4x4 drive to the waterhole and sit and wait for wildlife to gather.

Highlights & Places in Etosha National Park

When first established in 1907, Etosha National Park was a massive 100 000 km², the same size as South Korea. However after political change, the perimeters of the park shrank to 20 000 km², making for a smaller area of wildlife and vegetation to protect.

Covering most of Etosha National Park, the Etosha Pan is a large salt pan desert. The salt pan is usually dry but when it rains in summer the pan fills with water, attracting pelicans and flamingos. Throughout the year a spring runs along the perimeter of the pan, proving to be a magnet to a variety of wildlife and birdlife.

Even though water is scarce in the area, the spring is not the only area where you can view African flora and fauna; fifty waterholes have been created in order to direct wildlife into specific areas which has proven beneficial for preserving areas which have previously been over grazed.  

Best Time to Visit Etosha National Park

When to Go

Depending on what you are going there for, will determine which months are best for you to travel in.

If you’re going for game viewing, May to October, is best. The grass is drier and flatter making it easier to see game. Also, without constant showers, thirsty animals gathering around waterholes, making it easy for you to find a good spot to see a variety of wildlife.

November to April is ‘wet summer’ and is the best time for bird watching with migratory birds flocking to the area to enjoy summer rains. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Etosha National Park

4x4 vehicle is the best mode of transport to get you to Etosha National Park. There are two entry points to the park: Namutoni east, which is 435 km from Windhoek and Okaukuejo south, which is 535 km from Windhoek.

Getting Around Etosha National Park

Once in the park, the area is best explored via a 4x4 safari vehicle.

Etosha National Park Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs:
There are no ATMs available within Etosha National Park.

Forex/Money:
Travellers cheques are accepted by larger camps, resorts and lodges. There are a number of banks and foreign exchange bureaus in Windhoek where you will be able to exchange foreign currency to take with you on your journey into the rural areas.

Credit/Debit cards:
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted at larger camps, resorts and lodges in Etosha National Park. Credit cards are not accepted at most petrol stations in Namibia.

Internet availability: 
A few establishments in Etosha National Park offer an internet connection service. Internet cafes are available in Windhoek.

Drinking water: 
Bottled water is recommended for drinking in this area.

Hospitals & Medical: 
The closest city that offers the best medical care is Windhoek. Most lodges are equipped with a basic first aid kit to treat mild ailments.

Visa Requirements: 
You don’t need a visa to enter Namibia, but you will need a valid passport. 

Etosha National Park Map