Etosha National Park, Namibia’s Greatest Wildlife Sanctuary

If there is one country that needs to be on the ‘destinations’ bucket list of every international traveller, it is Namibia in Africa. Here you can explore the oldest desert in the world and with its amazing nature & wildlife, Namibia is affectionately known as ‘The Jewel of the Desert.’ Hauntingly beautiful, its German influence is evident throughout and this is really one of the world’s natural treasure troves. This article, compiled by one of Africa’s preferred travel companies Jewel of Africa Safaris, specifically looks at Etosha National Park, Namibia’s greatest wildlife sanctuary. 

About the Park

Etosha National Park is indisputably one of the world’s greatest game reserves and before the rainy season, it offers wildlife viewing that rivals the very best on Earth. The Park covers an area of 22,207 square kilometres which includes the world renowned ‘Etosha Pan.’ The best time to visit Etosha National Park is between May and December for general game viewing, but truth be told, with eight months of peak game viewing, Etosha National Park, like the rest of Namibia, is almost a year-round destination.

The Etosha Pan

Formed about 1000 million years ago, the Etosha pan is a massive mineral pan dominating Etosha and forming part of the Kalahari Basin. The rains occasionally flood the pans, which attracts thousands of birds including remarkable flocks of Flamingos. This is in fact a mass breeding ground for Flamingo’s, who’s magnificent plumage turn the pans into a beautiful pink blanket, while the perennial springs along the edges of the Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds. 

The Wildife

The Park is world renowned for its spectacular wildlife. Home to four of the Big 5, elephant and lion are common in the park, while the elusive leopard hides in the densely vegetated areas. However, one of the best reasons to visit Etosha Park is its healthy population of black rhinoceros. This archaic beast is endangered, and the waterholes are probably among the best places in the world to see this precious animal.

Accommodation And Floodlit Waterholes

On the magnificent Jewel of Africa Safaris 14 day Royal Namibia tour, the ‘Vreugde Guest Farm’ is the main accommodation whilst enjoying safari drives in the park. This is a tranquil place where you can relax and enjoy the surrounding area. Activities around the farm include hiking, swimming, birdwatching and many more. 

However, if you choose to stay in the Park itself, a renowned feature of the camps are the floodlit waterholes where wildlife can be clearly viewed at night! One of the best waterholes to visit is the Namutoni Camp on the western boundary of the park. Situated next to a waterhole, animals and birds quench their thirst here both day and night.

Tailor-Made Packages

We hope this brief overview of Etosha National Park, Namibia’s greatest wildlife sanctuary has wet your appetite to join us soon to come and experience this magnificent place. Remember, although our 14 day Namibian Royal tour is a comprehensive, exciting package, we at Jewel of Africa pride ourselves on offering tailor made packages specific to your, choice of vacations, affordability and availability. Contact us to find out more and begin to experience our superb hospitality and service.