Photo: Hka1987, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Namibia · Southern Africa · Safari

Etosha National Park

A great white salt pan where animals queue at waterholes in the dry season.

Etosha is one of the best parks in Africa for self-drivers. In the dry season, animals gather at waterholes, and several rest camps have floodlit waterholes where rhinos often come to drink at night.

Highlights

  • Floodlit waterholes at Okaukuejo and Halali
  • Black rhino
  • Lion and elephant at waterholes
  • The Etosha Pan

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Government rest camps inside the park, and lodges just outside the gates.

Getting there

About 5 hours’ drive north of Windhoek on good tar roads.

Tips

  • Sit at a waterhole and wait; that is the Etosha way.
  • Stay inside the park to use the floodlit waterholes.
  • Fill up with fuel at the camps.

Best time to visit

May to Oct. See where to go in Africa in May and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Etosha National Park?

May to Oct. Sit at a waterhole and wait; that is the Etosha way.

How long should I spend at Etosha National Park?

2 to 3 nights.

How do I get to Etosha National Park?

About 5 hours’ drive north of Windhoek on good tar roads.

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