Undoubtedly one of the great parks of Africa, the huge Etosha National Park in north-central Namibia covers more than 22,300 km2 (8,620 sq mi) and is synonymous with big game and wide open spaces. The name Etosha actually means “great white place” referring to the massive (130km long and 50km wide) dry pan in the middle of the park, believed to have been formed over 100 million years ago.
Etosha is a photographer’s dream, with the contrasts in light, colour and textures particularly dramatic. Many a guest’s “lifer shots” of African animal and bird species were taken in this park. The sunrises and sunsets are particularly spectacular.
Etosha is home to a staggering amount of wildlife, both common and rare, including several threatened and endangered species. The mammal list is at over 110 species, including four of Africa’s Big Five, Cheetah, Giraffe, Spotted Hyaena, Zebra (2 species), Greater Kudu, Springbok, Gemsbok (Namibia’s national animal), Common Warthog, Honey Badger and many more.
Etosha also has a bird list of more than 350 species, including regional specials like Kori Bustard, Blue Crane, Violet Woodhoopoe, Ruppell’s Parrot, Pygmy and Red-necked Falcon, Bare-cheeked and Southern Pied Babbler, and Burchell’s and Double-banded Courser.
Another unique feature is the floodlit waterholes at all the main camps. Guests can sit in the comfort of armchairs with a drink in hand, watching the sun set over the African plains while animals lazily come down to drink. It is indeed a magnificent sight.
We incorporate Etosha into many of our Namibian safaris, simply because it is such a fantastic experience and definitely one not to be missed. Our Classic Namibia safari spends 3 nights in Etosha, but also visits such iconic Namibian destinations like Sossusvlei, the Namib desert, Swakopmund, the Skeleton Coast and Damaraland. Make use of our current “green season” special on this safari and book your spot!
Browse to Classic Namibia Safari for more information on this fantastic safari, or enquire directly at info@naturetravelnamibia.com.