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Where to Go on Safari in Etosha National Park

Africa's best tailor-made safaris

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Where to Go on Safari in Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is divided into several distinct regions, each offering unique landscapes and spectacular wildlife experiences. 

This vast park, with its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, provides numerous opportunities for memorable safaris. Discover Africa offers expertly curated safari packages that provide exceptional value, personalised service, and unique insights into each region of Etosha.

1. The Etosha Pan

Watering hole in Etosha Pan in Etosha National Park
Watering hole in Etosha Pan in Etosha National Park

 

Overview: At the heart of the park lies the Etosha Pan, a vast salt pan that dominates the landscape. Covering approximately 4,800 square kilometers, it is one of the largest salt pans in Africa and can be seen from space. During the dry season, the pan is a stark, white expanse that attracts a variety of wildlife to its fringes.

Unique Facts:

  • The name “Etosha” means “Great White Place” in the local Ovambo language, reflecting the pan’s striking appearance.
  • During the rainy season, the pan transforms into a shallow lake, attracting thousands of flamingos and other waterbirds.
  • The pan is believed to have formed over 10 million years ago, making it a geological wonder.

2. Okaukuejo

Giraffes in Okaukuejo, Etosha National Park | Photo credit: Okaukuejo Camp
Giraffes in Okaukuejo, Etosha National Park | Photo credit: Okaukuejo Camp

Overview: Okaukuejo is the administrative center of Etosha and one of the park’s most popular areas. Known for its impressive waterhole, which is floodlit at night, Okaukuejo offers some of the best game viewing opportunities in the park.

Unique Facts:

  • The Okaukuejo waterhole is particularly famous for its black rhino sightings, especially in the dry season.
  • The waterhole attracts hundreds of animals every night, creating a bustling hub of wildlife activity.
  • The area features a range of accommodation options, from campsites to comfortable lodges, making it an excellent base for exploring the park.

3. Halali

Rhino drinks at a waterhole at Halali Camp, Namibia.
Rhino drinks at a waterhole at Halali Camp, Namibia.

Overview: Situated in the central part of Etosha, Halali is known for its strategic location between Okaukuejo and Namutoni. The Halali waterhole is also floodlit, providing excellent nocturnal game viewing.

Unique Facts:

  • Halali is characterized by its Mopane woodland and rocky outcrops, creating a unique and scenic environment.
  • Halali’s name is derived from the German word for the traditional ending of a hunt, symbolizing the area’s rich wildlife heritage.
  • The waterhole here is known for its elephant herds, often seen splashing and playing in the water.

4. Namutoni

Honey badger in Etosha National Park, Namibia.
Honey badger in Etosha National Park, Namibia.

Overview: Located in the eastern part of the park, Namutoni is built around an old German fort, giving it a distinctive historical charm. The fort now houses a museum, shops, and a restaurant, offering a cultural experience alongside wildlife viewing.

Unique Facts:

  • The fort was originally built as a police post in 1902 and later played a significant role in the region’s colonial history.
  • Namutoni’s open grasslands and Acacia woodlands provide a picturesque backdrop for safaris.
  • The area is known for its high concentration of bird species, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.

5. Dolomite Camp

Game Drive in Dolomite Camp, Etosha National Park
Game Drive in Dolomite Camp, Etosha National Park

Overview: Dolomite Camp, located in the western part of Etosha, offers a more secluded and exclusive experience. This area was only opened to the public in recent years and is less frequented by visitors, providing a more intimate safari experience.

Unique Facts:

  • The western region is known for its diverse landscapes, including dolomite hills and grassy plains, which are home to black-faced impalas and Hartmann’s mountain zebras.
  • The camp is perched on a hill, offering stunning views over the surrounding area.
  • The western area has a higher number of rare and endemic species, including black rhinos, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Each of these regions within Etosha National Park offers something unique, from the dramatic landscapes of the Etosha Pan to the historical charm of Namutoni. 

Discover Africa ensures that your safari experience is enriched with expert guidance, comfortable accommodation, and exclusive access, providing exceptional value and unforgettable memories.


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