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Etosha National Park
Fast Facts
- Location:In Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia
- Attraction Type: National Reserve
- Significance: Big game reserve
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- How to Reach: By air to Winhoek and then by road
- Nearest International Airport: Windhoek International Airport
Etosha literally meaning 'Great White Place' refers to the vast saltpan surrounded by grasslands and sub-desert vegetation. Etosha National Park is the premier game reserve of Namibia. Stretched over an area of more than 22,000 square kilometers, Namibia Etosha Game Park was declared a National Park in 1907. This big game park is home to 114 mammal species, 110 species of reptiles, 340 species of birds, and amphibians of 16 species.
Millennia ago the entire expanse was occupied by a lake fed by Kunene river. Over years, a change in the course of this river resulted in drying up of this vast lake. Presently, the lake has taken the formation of water holes lying scattered in the southern areas of Etosha National Park in Namibia.
Activities
Big game viewing is undoubtedly the prime activity of all visitors touring Namibia Etosha National Park. A number of gravel roads lead to the waterholes where game viewing is relatively easy. The main entrance to this game reserve is the 'Andersson Gate' near Okaukuejo in south. A new entrance, 'Nehale Iya Mpingana Gate'was opened in the north east in 2003. A third entrance, 'Von Lindequist Gate' is located at the eastern end of this national park.
At the water hole you can expect a close encounter with a lion, or suddenly find yourself surrounded by a herd of elephants. Zebras and giraffe would be wandering around your jeep apparently aimlessly but always wary of prowling lions. Rhinos, cheetahs, and leopards are always there to spring a surprise. Springboks with their antics would charm you. Etosha National Reserve remains open from sunrise to sun down. Between sunset and sunrise you either have to be completely out of the forested area or stay in one their forest camps. If you wish to become significantly daring, you might stay inside the national park in a completely locked up car surrounded by the dangerous beasts of the jungle. But this would certainly be an unforgettable experience.
Accommodation and Dining
While visiting Etosha National Park you could choose among the rest camps in Okaukuejo, Halali, and Namutoni under the administration of Namibia Wildlife Resorts. All these three camps have viewing access to floodlit waterholes where you get excellent opportunity to see the large mammals in the night. Okaukuejo and Halai are particularly attractive for night viewing of big game.
At these camps food is available at restaurants, and a motor garage takes care of fuel supplies and minor repairs. Swimming pools in these camp locations help to keep you refreshed.
Related Links :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JTRpVhWLRU: Check out the wonderful wildlife at the Etosha National Park in this exquisite travel video. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u20d_ofRhg: Another wonderful video on the animals of the Etosha National Park. It beautifully captures the feel of the parched and dry expanse of this National Park in Namibia.
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