A human being is an amazing creature. If we observe a zebra on the road somewhere in London or in Moscow, it will make a strong impression and be something to talk about for several days.But after the first couple of hours driving in Namibia, zebras, kudu and different species of antelopes become a routine spectacle, and we already start to look for something more exciting!
During the busy and hot day driving around vast Etosha National Park (which contains 22,750 square kilometres), we didn't see anything out of the ordinary, except of lazy giraffes which crossed our road like a mysterious mirage crosses the consciousness, a product of the African heat.
The real magic started in the deep evening when we came to the small waterhole near our camp. The whole creation strives for water; every living thing likes coolness and twilight. If you remember these two simple facts, you always see wildlife you expected to see, and even more!
The fauna of the park consists of 114 species of mammals, including lions, cheetahs, black rhinoceri and African elephants. Also, it is the home for 349 bird species, 110 types of reptiles and 16 amphibian species.
The fauna of the park consists of 114 species of mammals, including lions, cheetahs, black rhinoceri and African elephants. Also, it is the home for 349 bird species, 110 types of reptiles and 16 amphibian species.
How to get to Okaukuejo, Etosha:
Okaukuejo, the western entrance to Etosha National Park is situated about 436 km from Windhoek, the capital of the country. The best way is to rent a car in Windhoek airport, but be prepared to spend not less than 6 hours to get there, the roads are not bad but mostly unpaved. If you are not planning to drive on dunes, it is not necessary to take a 4х4, but I would suggest choosing an SUV, keeping in mind the road covering (or lack thereof).
A comfortable drive is about 150–200 km a day. It is important to have an international driving licence.
Inside of the Park, you can either engage a guide or drive yourself, observing the Park rules.
A comfortable drive is about 150–200 km a day. It is important to have an international driving licence.
Inside of the Park, you can either engage a guide or drive yourself, observing the Park rules.
Where to stay in Okaukuejo, Etosha:
You also have an option to economise your journey and make it more romantic, if you rent a car with a roof tent, so you can simply stay in any campsite. There are a lot of campsites in Namibia, and all of those I've seen were comfortable, clean and have all necessary facilities.
Weather and climate:
During the year, the temperature varies from 25°C to 35°C. The best season is the winter months – from May to October, when the wildlife tends to come closer to the water. During the rainy season, the conditions are hotter and greener, so it is the perfect time for birdwatchers.
Money matters:
If you mix camp and hotel staying, going to rent a car with a roof tent, you should be prepared to spend about US$ 3,000-4,000 in 10 days, which includes meals, souvenirs and entrances to the national parks.
Travel tips:
- Namibia is, probably, the most stable, safest and tourist-friendly country in Africa. Etosha Park is quite accessible even for those travellers who don't have any experience of making an independent journey.
- You don't need any special vaccination to go to Namibia - just if you are going as a tourist, of course.
- Contrary to the nearest countries, the crime level in Namibia is the same as in European countries.
- It is not a secret, but once again, it is better to mention the following. To see wildlife – not only in Namibia but everywhere – it is important to keep two things in mind. First: all life comes to the water. Second: the chances to see a wild creature are at least ten times greater before the sunrise or after sunset than during the day. So, try to find your waterhole, turn off the engine, prepare your camera, keep silent and prepare to enjoy one of the most impressive experiences in all of life!
Where to stay in Namibia;
Etosha National Park, official website.
