Etosha National Park - Discovering Namibia

Travelling to Etosha National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Etosha National Park, a pretty good destination in Namibia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Etosha National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Etosha National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Namibia, here's everything to know about Etosha National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, located in the northern part of the country. It covers an area of over 22,000 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of animal species, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and different species of antelopes. The park is known for its vast salt pan that dominates the center of the park and attracts a wide variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season (May to October). Etosha also boasts a number of waterholes that provide excellent opportunities for game viewing. The park is easily accessible by road and is a popular destination for self-drive safaris. There is a variety of accommodation available within the park, ranging from basic campsites to luxurious lodges.

What to visit in Etosha National Park

The tourist attractions of Etosha National Park in Namibia are: 1. Etosha Pan - It is the largest salt flat in Africa, visible from space, and a breeding ground for flamingos during the wet season. The park is named after the pan and covers an area of over 22,000km².
2. Game drives - There are various game drives available in the park to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras and black rhinos. These can be done with an experienced guide or self-driven. 3. Waterholes - There are numerous waterholes throughout the park which attract a variety of animals for a drink. Visitors can sit at the waterhole for hours watching as herds of elephants, giraffes, and other animals come and go.
4. Ongava Game Reserve - Located next to the park, this reserve offers luxury lodgings and private game drives with a focus on rhino conservation.
5. Bird watching - There are over 300 bird species in the park, including raptors, vultures, and migratory birds.
6. Photography - The vast landscapes, unique wildlife, and dramatic sunsets make Etosha a photographer's dream.
7. Night game drives - These are available at some lodges and offer a chance to see nocturnal animals like hyenas, jackals, and civets.
8. Cultural tours - Visitors can also take cultural tours to learn more about the indigenous tribes that have lived in the area for generations. The Himba people, who are known for their distinctive red ochre skin, are one such tribe.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Namibia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Etosha National Park.

When to go on holiday to Etosha National Park

The best time to go on holiday to Etosha National Park in Namibia is between the months of May and September, which is considered the dry season. During this time, temperatures are milder, and wildlife can be easily seen gathering around waterholes due to the scarce availability of water. The months of December to March are the rainy season, and the park can be more challenging to navigate due to flooded roads and vegetation, but this time is ideal for bird watching. Overall, the weather and best time to book depend on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do while visiting Etosha National Park.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Etosha National Park

To get to Etosha National Park in Namibia, you have a few options: 1. By car - You can hire a car in Windhoek or other major towns/cities in Namibia and drive to the park. It will take around 5-6 hours to drive from Windhoek to Etosha.
2. By shuttle service - There are a few shuttle services that operate between Windhoek and Etosha National Park. You can find these shuttle services by doing a search online.
3. By bus - Some bus companies in Namibia operate services to Etosha National Park. You can find more information online or enquire at a bus station.
Regardless of your choice, make sure you have got directions and the relevant permits in order to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey to Etosha National Park.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Etosha National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Etosha National Park

1. Oryx Steak - Oryx steak is a popular dish in Namibia, including the Etosha National Park, is the steak made from the meat of the oryx, a large antelope found in the region. Oryx steak is typically served grilled or pan-fried and is known for its lean and flavorful meat.
2. Kudu Stew - Kudu is another popular antelope species found in Namibia. Kudu stew is a hearty dish made by slow-cooking kudu meat with vegetables and spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful meal.
3. Biltong - Biltong is a popular dried meat snack found throughout Namibia. It is made from various types of meat, including beef, kudu, and ostrich, and is seasoned with spices before being dried. Biltong is often eaten as a snack while out on safari in Etosha or on long road trips.
4. Potjiekos - Potjiekos is a traditional South African and Namibian stew that is cooked in a cast-iron pot over an open fire. The stew typically includes a variety of meats (such as beef or ostrich), vegetables, and spices, resulting in a hearty and flavorful meal.
5. Vetkoek - Vetkoek is a type of fried dough that is often served as a snack or side dish in Namibia. It can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as minced meat or cheese, and is a popular food to take on long drives or picnics in Etosha National Park.
You can find general info about typical foods in Namibia here.

Is Etosha National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Etosha National Park is a popular destination for tourists in Namibia, and the cost of traveling there can be considered moderate to expensive, depending on the visitor's budget and preferences. The fees to enter and camp in the park are relatively affordable, but the cost of accommodations, meals, and transportation can be higher compared to other destinations in the country. Additionally, if you plan on booking a guided safari or other activities, those costs will add to your overall expenses. However, with proper planning and research, it's possible to find affordable options and make the most of your trip to Etosha National Park.

Where to find accomodation in Etosha National Park

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Etosha National Park in Namibia are around the park gates, such as Okaukuejo, Halali, and Namutoni. These areas have a range of lodges, campsites, and hotels with varying amenities and price ranges. They are all conveniently located near the park's main wildlife viewing areas, and many offer guided safari tours and game drives. Additionally, some visitors opt to stay outside of the park and drive in each day, which gives them more accommodation options in towns like Outjo and Tsumeb.
You can check hotel prices at Etosha National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Etosha National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Etosha National Park in Namibia is generally a safe place for tourists. The park is well-maintained and there are park rangers on patrol to ensure visitors' safety. However, it is important to follow the park rules and guidelines, such as staying in designated areas and not feeding the wildlife. It's also a good idea to be aware of the possible dangers that come with being in the wild, such as potential encounters with wild animals, and taking appropriate precautions like not getting too close to the animals and being aware of your surroundings. Overall, with proper precautions, Etosha National Park is a wonderful destination to explore.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Namibia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Etosha National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Etosha National Park the most?

Etosha National Park in Namibia is an amazing destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers, including couples, families, and young people looking for adventure.
Couples can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the park by taking self-drive tours or guided safaris to spot wildlife and admire the stunning landscapes. They can also stay at secluded lodges or luxurious campsites to enjoy a romantic getaway.
Families can have an incredible experience seeing wild animals in their natural habitat and learning about different species. There are also family-friendly lodges and campsites that offer a range of activities for kids and adults.
Young people looking for adventure and fun can enjoy the adrenaline rush of spotting big cats, such as lions or cheetahs. They can also participate in guided hikes, night drives or even cycling safaris.
Overall, Etosha National Park can be a great destination for travelers who appreciate nature, wildlife, and adventure, regardless of their age or interests.

How to get around Etosha National Park

One of the best ways to move around Etosha National Park is by self-driving. The park has a network of well-maintained gravel roads that are usually accessible by a standard 2-wheel drive vehicle. Additionally, guided game drives and safari tours are also available to visitors, and there are several car rental companies near the park for those who need to rent a car.

What to see around Etosha National Park

There are several destinations that you can visit as a day trip from Etosha National Park. Here are some recommendations: 1. Ongava Game Reserve - Located adjacent to Etosha National Park, Ongava Game Reserve is a private game reserve that offers a unique wildlife experience, including sightings of rare species like black and white rhinoceros.
2. Waterberg Plateau Park - This national park is around 225 km from Etosha National Park and is known for its rocky plateau, natural springs and wildlife. A popular activity here is trekking along the Waterberg Plateau Trail.
3. Vingerklip - This unique rock formation is located around 150 km from Etosha National Park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.
4. Himba Village - A visit to a Himba Village is a cultural experience not to be missed. The Himba are a nomadic tribe that has maintained their traditional way of life and culture for generations. There are several villages that can be visited around Etosha National Park.
5. Hobatere Lodge - This lodge is located around 100 km west of Etosha National Park and offers a variety of activities, including game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching. It's also a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning views.
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