Etosha & Central North, Namibia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Low

    Safari in Etosha National Park

    Etosha is Namibia's premier wildlife destination, famous for its vast salt pan visible from space and its incredible concentration of wildlife around waterholes, especially during the dry season. Visitors can expect to see four of the Big Five (rhino, elephant, lion, leopard), along with large herds of zebra, wildebeest, springbok, and giraffe.

    Best timeMay to October (dry winter) for Etosha wildlife. Year-round for Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast.
    Species
    89
    Big Five
    4/5
    Area
    22,270 km²
    Recommended stay
    4-5 days
    Est.
    1907

    Etosha National Park Map

    Park location

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Etosha National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Etosha National Park

    Sign in to report

    89 species recorded in Etosha National Park12 threatened

    No lodges listed for this park yet.

    Try searching nearby lodges on Go2Africa or SafariBookings.

    Book Safari Experiences in Etosha National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Etosha National Park

    Namibia's stark desert beauty and unique wildlife offer an unforgettable safari experience year-round. For the best wildlife viewing, we always recommend the dry season from May to October, when...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot temperatures and scattered thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon. Humidity can be high.

    The landscape is lush and green, making wildlife spotting more challenging. However, it's a prime time for birding as migratory birds are present.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and excellent birding opportunities this month, especially in areas like the Caprivi Strip.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Caprivi Strip

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, with hot days and potential for heavy rainfall. The heat can be intense.

    Calving season for many antelope species is in full swing, meaning lots of young animals. Predators are often active, hunting the vulnerable newborns.

    We recommend heading to Etosha to witness the abundance of young wildlife and the predators that follow. The waterholes are still less concentrated with animals than in the dry season.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland

    March

    low

    End of Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, but it can still be warm and humid. The landscape remains green.

    The vegetation is still thick, but water sources are starting to become more important. Birding remains excellent.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures start to cool down, and the air becomes drier. Rainfall is minimal.

    The vegetation begins to dry out, making wildlife more visible. Animals start congregating around permanent water sources.

    We find April to be a fantastic transition month. The crowds are manageable, and the wildlife viewing in Etosha begins to improve significantly.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant daytime temperatures and cool to cold nights. Rainfall is very unlikely.

    Wildlife viewing becomes excellent as animals rely heavily on waterholes. Etosha's waterholes are magnets for a wide variety of species.

    We love May for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing in Etosha. The light is also beautiful for photography.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool to cold mornings and evenings, with mild daytime temperatures. This is the start of winter.

    The dry conditions concentrate wildlife around waterholes, leading to spectacular viewing opportunities. Desert-adapted species are often easier to find.

    We recommend June for its ideal weather and the beginning of peak wildlife viewing. The desert landscapes are particularly dramatic.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cold mornings and evenings, with mild and sunny days. This is the heart of winter.

    Wildlife viewing is at its best as animals are heavily dependent on waterholes. Expect large herds and increased predator activity.

    We consider July to be one of the best months for wildlife. The sheer concentration of animals at Etosha's waterholes is unforgettable.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cold mornings and evenings and pleasant, sunny days. The air is dry.

    Peak dry season means wildlife is highly concentrated around water sources. Predator sightings are common.

    We love August for the consistently excellent game viewing and the dramatic, stark beauty of the desert landscapes.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, but mornings and evenings remain cool. It's still very dry.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent as water sources are still critical. Birding starts to pick up as resident birds prepare for breeding.

    We find September offers a great balance of good wildlife viewing and slightly fewer crowds than the peak winter months.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    October

    moderate

    End of Dry Season

    Temperatures are hot, and the air is dry. The first hints of rain may appear towards the end of the month.

    Animals are still concentrated around waterholes, but some may start dispersing as the first rains arrive. Birding is good.

    We recommend October for its hot desert experience and the last chance to see animals concentrated at waterholes before the rains.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures remain hot, with increasing humidity and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape begins to turn green.

    The first rains bring fresh grazing, and animals begin to spread out. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We love the dramatic thunderstorms and the fresh green shoots that appear after the first rains, making for beautiful photographic opportunities.

    Etosha National Park
    Caprivi Strip
    Khaudum National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green.

    The green season means wildlife is more dispersed, but it's a fantastic time for birding and seeing young animals. The Caprivi Strip is particularly vibrant.

    We recommend the Caprivi Strip in December for its lush scenery and excellent birding, though wildlife spotting in drier areas can be more challenging.

    Caprivi Strip
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot temperatures and scattered thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon. Humidity can be high.

    The landscape is lush and green, making wildlife spotting more challenging. However, it's a prime time for birding as migratory birds are present.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and excellent birding opportunities this month, especially in areas like the Caprivi Strip.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Caprivi Strip

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, with hot days and potential for heavy rainfall. The heat can be intense.

    Calving season for many antelope species is in full swing, meaning lots of young animals. Predators are often active, hunting the vulnerable newborns.

    We recommend heading to Etosha to witness the abundance of young wildlife and the predators that follow. The waterholes are still less concentrated with animals than in the dry season.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland

    March

    low

    End of Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, but it can still be warm and humid. The landscape remains green.

    The vegetation is still thick, but water sources are starting to become more important. Birding remains excellent.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures start to cool down, and the air becomes drier. Rainfall is minimal.

    The vegetation begins to dry out, making wildlife more visible. Animals start congregating around permanent water sources.

    We find April to be a fantastic transition month. The crowds are manageable, and the wildlife viewing in Etosha begins to improve significantly.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant daytime temperatures and cool to cold nights. Rainfall is very unlikely.

    Wildlife viewing becomes excellent as animals rely heavily on waterholes. Etosha's waterholes are magnets for a wide variety of species.

    We love May for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing in Etosha. The light is also beautiful for photography.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool to cold mornings and evenings, with mild daytime temperatures. This is the start of winter.

    The dry conditions concentrate wildlife around waterholes, leading to spectacular viewing opportunities. Desert-adapted species are often easier to find.

    We recommend June for its ideal weather and the beginning of peak wildlife viewing. The desert landscapes are particularly dramatic.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cold mornings and evenings, with mild and sunny days. This is the heart of winter.

    Wildlife viewing is at its best as animals are heavily dependent on waterholes. Expect large herds and increased predator activity.

    We consider July to be one of the best months for wildlife. The sheer concentration of animals at Etosha's waterholes is unforgettable.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cold mornings and evenings and pleasant, sunny days. The air is dry.

    Peak dry season means wildlife is highly concentrated around water sources. Predator sightings are common.

    We love August for the consistently excellent game viewing and the dramatic, stark beauty of the desert landscapes.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, but mornings and evenings remain cool. It's still very dry.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent as water sources are still critical. Birding starts to pick up as resident birds prepare for breeding.

    We find September offers a great balance of good wildlife viewing and slightly fewer crowds than the peak winter months.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    October

    moderate

    End of Dry Season

    Temperatures are hot, and the air is dry. The first hints of rain may appear towards the end of the month.

    Animals are still concentrated around waterholes, but some may start dispersing as the first rains arrive. Birding is good.

    We recommend October for its hot desert experience and the last chance to see animals concentrated at waterholes before the rains.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures remain hot, with increasing humidity and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape begins to turn green.

    The first rains bring fresh grazing, and animals begin to spread out. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We love the dramatic thunderstorms and the fresh green shoots that appear after the first rains, making for beautiful photographic opportunities.

    Etosha National Park
    Caprivi Strip
    Khaudum National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green.

    The green season means wildlife is more dispersed, but it's a fantastic time for birding and seeing young animals. The Caprivi Strip is particularly vibrant.

    We recommend the Caprivi Strip in December for its lush scenery and excellent birding, though wildlife spotting in drier areas can be more challenging.

    Caprivi Strip
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot temperatures and scattered thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon. Humidity can be high.

    The landscape is lush and green, making wildlife spotting more challenging. However, it's a prime time for birding as migratory birds are present.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and excellent birding opportunities this month, especially in areas like the Caprivi Strip.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Caprivi Strip

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, with hot days and potential for heavy rainfall. The heat can be intense.

    Calving season for many antelope species is in full swing, meaning lots of young animals. Predators are often active, hunting the vulnerable newborns.

    We recommend heading to Etosha to witness the abundance of young wildlife and the predators that follow. The waterholes are still less concentrated with animals than in the dry season.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland

    March

    low

    End of Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, but it can still be warm and humid. The landscape remains green.

    The vegetation is still thick, but water sources are starting to become more important. Birding remains excellent.

    Khaudum National Park
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures start to cool down, and the air becomes drier. Rainfall is minimal.

    The vegetation begins to dry out, making wildlife more visible. Animals start congregating around permanent water sources.

    We find April to be a fantastic transition month. The crowds are manageable, and the wildlife viewing in Etosha begins to improve significantly.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant daytime temperatures and cool to cold nights. Rainfall is very unlikely.

    Wildlife viewing becomes excellent as animals rely heavily on waterholes. Etosha's waterholes are magnets for a wide variety of species.

    We love May for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing in Etosha. The light is also beautiful for photography.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool to cold mornings and evenings, with mild daytime temperatures. This is the start of winter.

    The dry conditions concentrate wildlife around waterholes, leading to spectacular viewing opportunities. Desert-adapted species are often easier to find.

    We recommend June for its ideal weather and the beginning of peak wildlife viewing. The desert landscapes are particularly dramatic.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cold mornings and evenings, with mild and sunny days. This is the heart of winter.

    Wildlife viewing is at its best as animals are heavily dependent on waterholes. Expect large herds and increased predator activity.

    We consider July to be one of the best months for wildlife. The sheer concentration of animals at Etosha's waterholes is unforgettable.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cold mornings and evenings and pleasant, sunny days. The air is dry.

    Peak dry season means wildlife is highly concentrated around water sources. Predator sightings are common.

    We love August for the consistently excellent game viewing and the dramatic, stark beauty of the desert landscapes.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, but mornings and evenings remain cool. It's still very dry.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent as water sources are still critical. Birding starts to pick up as resident birds prepare for breeding.

    We find September offers a great balance of good wildlife viewing and slightly fewer crowds than the peak winter months.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Skeleton Coast

    October

    moderate

    End of Dry Season

    Temperatures are hot, and the air is dry. The first hints of rain may appear towards the end of the month.

    Animals are still concentrated around waterholes, but some may start dispersing as the first rains arrive. Birding is good.

    We recommend October for its hot desert experience and the last chance to see animals concentrated at waterholes before the rains.

    Etosha National Park
    Damaraland
    Sossusvlei

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures remain hot, with increasing humidity and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape begins to turn green.

    The first rains bring fresh grazing, and animals begin to spread out. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We love the dramatic thunderstorms and the fresh green shoots that appear after the first rains, making for beautiful photographic opportunities.

    Etosha National Park
    Caprivi Strip
    Khaudum National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green.

    The green season means wildlife is more dispersed, but it's a fantastic time for birding and seeing young animals. The Caprivi Strip is particularly vibrant.

    We recommend the Caprivi Strip in December for its lush scenery and excellent birding, though wildlife spotting in drier areas can be more challenging.

    Caprivi Strip
    Bwabwata National Park
    Etosha National Park
    Planning & reference

    Etosha is a truly unique safari experience, defined by its vast salt pan and the incredible concentration of wildlife around its permanent waterholes. We love the thrill of waiting patiently at a waterhole, watching as elephants, rhinos, and countless antelope species come to drink, often side-by-side. It's a raw, authentic spectacle that feels both ancient and immediate, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.

    Gate Times

    Etosha's gates typically open at sunrise and close at sunset, with exact times varying seasonally. We strongly recommend checking the official NWR (Namibia Wildlife Resorts) website or the park entrance for precise daily timings as they are strictly enforced. Park entry permits must be purchased at the gate or pre-arranged, and accommodation bookings within the park are essential for staying overnight. Arriving early allows for maximum game viewing time.

    Tipping

    For your safari guide, we suggest N$150-250 per person per day, depending on the service quality and the duration of your game drives. For general camp staff, a pooled tip of N$50-100 per person per day is customary, often left in a central box at reception. We always tip in local currency, discreetly, and at the end of our stay or activity, acknowledging excellent service.

    Dress Code

    We advise wearing neutral colours-khaki, olive, brown-to blend with the environment and avoid startling wildlife. Layers are crucial; mornings and evenings can be surprisingly chilly, even in summer, while midday is hot. Long sleeves and trousers protect against sun and insects. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for any walking activities, and a wide-brimmed hat is non-negotiable for sun protection. A light scarf can also be very versatile.

    Photography

    Drones are strictly prohibited within Etosha National Park, and we urge visitors to respect this rule for the safety and well-being of the wildlife. For capturing Etosha's incredible wildlife, a long lens (300mm or more) is invaluable. We find the best light for photography is early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is low and casts a beautiful golden glow. Always be patient, especially at the waterholes, and never use flash photography on nocturnal animals.

    Etiquette

    We believe in minimal disturbance to the wildlife and other visitors. Keep voices low, especially near waterholes or animal sightings. Always remain inside your vehicle unless at designated picnic or restroom areas. Never feed animals or attempt to attract their attention; this can alter their natural behaviour and put both them and you at risk. At camp, respect quiet hours and other guests' privacy. We advocate for leaving no trace and taking only photographs.

    What to Bring

    Binoculars (essential for waterhole viewing)
    Camera with a long lens and spare batteries
    Wide-brimmed hat
    High-factor sunscreen
    Insect repellent
    Lightweight, neutral-coloured layers
    Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes
    Reusable water bottle
    Small first-aid kit (including pain relievers and anti-histamines)
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Power bank for charging devices
    Cash for tips and small purchases

    Temperature

    25.03°C

    77°F · Range: 19.66–30.75°C

    Rainfall

    107.4 mm

    Wet season · 10 rainy days

    Humidity

    54.2%

    Sunshine

    10.6 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    6.51 m/s

    23.4 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Etosha National Park Reviews