Etosha National Park

One of the most beautiful safaris in the world

Etosha National Park is one of the world's largest and most beautiful wildlife reserves, located 400 km from Windhoek. It covers more than 20,000 km², or 350 km from east to west, and is home to some 114 species of mammals and nearly 350 species of birds.

The "Great White" owes its name to the immense expanse to the east of the park corresponding to the Pan Etosha, which is in reality a lake that has been dry for several million years. In each rainy season the lake fills up and attracts large numbers of birds such as flamingos and crowned cranes.

The waterholes are indeed excellent places to observe the fauna of the park. They are numerous and attract many species of birds: vultures, eagles, Kori's bustards, marabouts, Monteiro's hornbills and other Rüppell's bustards (an endemic species of the country).

Many mammals also approach the water holes. If you wait a little you could see: elephants, zebras, springboks, giraffes, wildebeests, hartebeests, impalas (rare because endemic), oryx, cheetahs, leopards, kudus, lions, hyenas, rhinoceroses...
The observation of these wild animals can only be done by driving on unmarked tracks and from a vehicle. It is of course possible - and in fact one of the most practical and economical ways - to enter the park with your camper, truck or 4x4.

Etosha National Park is managed and protected by Namibia Wildlife Resorts because this area is still fragile. Certain rules are therefore applied to preserve it. Among others, it is forbidden to drive in the park and outside the resorts between sunset and sunrise, the speed limit is 60 km/h and it is forbidden to walk. It is also necessary to obtain a permit to enter the park but this famous African park remains affordable for all and allows you to discover these wild spaces at your own pace.

A day in Etosha National Park would be very short. So take advantage of the park's well-equipped restcamps, most of which have campgrounds to spend several days. Depending on the time of year it is advisable to book well in advance.

For a taste of what you can expect and want to experience, visit Okaukuejo, a former military fort that has been converted into a museum and contains a record of the park's species and historical events.

The restcamps of the park (Okaukuejo, Halali, Namutoni...) often have a diary of observation kept by the different campers who pass by and leave in writing their journey and their discoveries of the day. It is a good way to guide you in your choice of routes in the park.