Etosha National Park
The magnificent Etosha National Park is an oasis within an otherwise dry desert landscape. Situated in the North Eastern part of Namibia, Etosha National Park is one of the wildest, and most magical of places to visit. Even if you have been on a safari somewhere else in Africa, there is no place quite like Etosha. With its open spaces, its free roaming animals, and its exceptional places to stay, Etosha is one Namibian destination that should not be missed.
For many who travel to Namibia, Etosha quickly becomes their favourite place to be. The park covers a huge area, spanning some 20 000 square kilometres, and along with seeing the usual, expected wildlife, Etosha is also home to 4 of the Big 5. During the rainy season, wildlife can be seen in abundance, moving across the plains and making the most of the wet weather. And once the rains dry up, the animals congregate around every watering hole.
There are plenty of things to see when you visit Etosha National Park, and in this guide we are going to help you make the most of your once in a lifetime trip through this exciting wilderness.
When is the best time to visit Etosha National Park?
The best time of the year to plan a trip to Etosha National Park is during the dry months, which are from June to October. Whenever you go on a safari trip, travelling during the dry season is recommended because during the dry season, the vegetation is not as overgrown, the wildlife is easier to spot, and generally, the temperatures are not so overwhelmingly hot.
The lack of rain also leads the wildlife to search for water sources, which for travellers means it is easy to spot all kinds of animals just by sitting in one place for a while. The lack of rain can also make travelling somewhat easier and more pleasant.
If you don’t mind travelling in rainy conditions, the wet months also have quite a lot of appeal. For starters, the landscape looks absolutely out of this world after the rains, with everything becoming green and lush. When travelling during the rainy months, you can also expect to see flamingos and all sorts of other migrating birds.
When planning an Etosha tour, it is important to keep in mind that as a popular travel destination, there is a high travel season and a low travel season. During the high season, the park can become quite busy, with guests from all over looking to have an adventure. To guarantee a holiday during the high travel season, it can be best to book early and to book through a travel agency.
When is the best time to go on a game drive?
The best time to go on a game drive in Etosha National Park is in the early morning or the late afternoon, but guests can take a drive at any time of the day, as weather conditions are always quite good. Most park guests prefer to go on a game drive in the morning before the day gets too hot and the wildlife look for shade. Morning game drives can also give you a chance to see lions and other types of predators, who are still awake after their night time hunt.
If you do drive later in the day, sticking to the water sources might result in some memorable sightings, especially if you look under the trees and in the shadier spots.
What type of traveller will enjoy Etosha National Park?
Namibia is a destination for the adventurer, and Etosha National Park is no different. Etosha is a wild playground for photographers and those who have a real love for wildlife. Whether you plan to travel on your own or if you intend to travel as a group, Etosha is an adventurer’s paradise, and the perfect place to just kick back and relax.
Etosha National Park is also the ideal destination for those who are looking for a unique honeymoon retreat, as there are numerous luxury lodges to stay in.
