Etosha is one of Africa’s largest game parks, much of which is covered by the silver Etosha salt pan that shimmers in the heat.
To the south of the pan there are open grasslands, woodland and permanent waterholes that act as a magnet for game.
Wildlife of Etosha National Park
In the dry season the game congregates in their thousands around the water sources, leading to some phenomenal game-viewing. On Etosha’s grassveld it is easy to find grazers, including Burchell’s zebra, blue wildebeest, red hartebeest and black-faced impala. Kudu are found on the margins of the woodland, whilst giraffe nibble the acacias and eland come to drink. Etosha’s cats are thriving with large populations of lion, leopard and cheetah. Elephant occur in hundred-strong herds whilst black and white rhino are found, particularly in the west of the park.
Birdlife
Etosha has over 340 bird species and it is common to see ostrich and secretary birds on the open plains. There are over 35 species of raptor, including the yellowbilled kite, steppe eagle and pygmy falcon. From blackfaced babblers to the crimsonbreasted shrike, birders will not be disappointed.
It is possible to explore Etosha either from inside or outside the park. Inside the park there are three very basic rest camps whilst outside there are a number of private reserves and lodges.