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Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha Oberland Lodge

Etosha Oberland Lodge


19°22’18.5"S 15°58’59.9"E

About Etosha Oberland Lodge

Close to Etosha, supremely comfortable and with superb food, Etosha Oberland boasts luxury credentials.

Setting the scene is a private reserve whose 50km2, bordering Namibia’s flagship wildlife park, even boasts white rhino.

Enormous chalets reflect the lodge’s sense of space, their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors beckoning the bush into the rooms – from the lounge to the bedroom to the bathroom.

Privacy is a given, too; indeed, the chalets are so spread out that while some guests are happy to wander along the sandy paths, others may wish to drive themselves to the near-cavernous main area!

Softening the space, warm lighting is suspended from an intricate wooden roof structure, while picture windows are interspersed by artistic Namibian portraits.

A big fireplace takes centre stage in the lounge, and bar stools are an inviting spot for a drink, but on warmer evenings guests gravitate outside, to intimate sundowner spots carefully positioned near the waterhole, and tables laid for dinner on the covered patio.

From quirky amuse-bouches to delicious desserts, it’s clear that dinner is taken seriously here: a time to linger over a full five courses before retiring for the night – and reflecting on a day’s exploration of the national park, whether in your own vehicle or on a full-day guided safari.

Our view

We were pleasantly surprised by Etosha Oberland on our recent visit in April 2024. For those looking to spoil themselves with a comfortable stay, great food and excellent service in a relaxed environment, this is a serious contender. However, it is worth noting that the activities on offer here are a little more limited than at some other places to stay in the area.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

20 chalets

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Etosha Oberland Lodge

10 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
10 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
10
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Dr & Mrs KfromCornwall

Arrived 14 Mar 2025, 1 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge - WOW!!!"

"pinch me moment - white rhino wander into view as we enjoyed sundowners. …" Read Dr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs LfromGloucester

Arrived 7 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"an easy drive into the park, wildlife visiting the waterhole. Food was top class …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

MarVilfromSouth Africa

Arrived 9 Jul 2024, 1 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"These rooms were our favorite of the entire trip! …" Read MarVil’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr and El JeffefromMT

Arrived 9 Jun 2024, 1 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"picked up a guided tour - the guides were fab. We saw all kinds of animals …" Read Dr and El Jeffe’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs C.fromLondon

Arrived 8 Sep 2023, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"... very luxurious and the tasting menus each evening were unbelievable... …" Read Mrs C.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Alex fromAlgarve

Arrived 19 May 2023, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"The food was exceptional here and served in the prettiest of spots. …" Read Alex ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

K&G fromLondon

Arrived 21 Apr 2023, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"such a luxurious Lodge... in a perfect location...close to...entrance to Etosha …" Read K&G ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs SfromBedfordshire

Arrived 11 Feb 2023, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"Beautiful, spacious tents ... Lovely water hole by the restaurant. …" Read Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

VicJ fromPerth Scotland

Arrived 2 Feb 2023, 2 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"Walk with Herman in morning was excellent.. Food very good.. …" Read VicJ ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs C.fromDubai

Arrived 29 Mar 2022, 1 nights

"Etosha Oberland Lodge review"

"a beautiful lodge... lovely views... extremely friendly staff …" Read Mrs C.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Etosha Oberland Lodge reviews

Etosha Oberland Lodge: Our full report

Etosha Oberland Lodge vies to be one of the most luxurious and comfortable accommodation options south of Etosha.

Just 12km from the park's Andersson Gate, the lodge was opened in early 2020 on a small
50 km²reserve. From here, activities focus firmly on trips into the national park, Namibia's premier wildlife destination.

Owned by the same team that runs Namib Outpost, Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge and Ti Melen, among others, Oberland was the first in an ambitious project to open a selection of new luxurious lodges across Namibia. When I visited in April 2024, it was no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed everything the lodge had to offer.

Nestled amongst mopane woodland, Etosha Oberland consists of 20 tented chalets, including three family chalets, spread across the bush for privacy. Each is enormous, made up of three main areas: the entrance/lounge with comfortable sofas and chairs and a minibar is flanked by the bedroom to one side and the bathroom to the other. The bedroom is dominated by a king-size bed, with bedside tables and reading lights all curtained by a mosquito net. Guests will also find an efficient air-conditioning unit, ample luggage storage, and a small digital safe. It is worth noting that while the bed can be made up in a twin configuration, the frame does not split so the two beds are essentially touching.

Perhaps our favourite feature is floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors that beckon the bush into the room, although on a sunny day this can mean the a/c has its work cut out. The sliding doors open onto a private deck with comfortable chairs and views through the trees into the bush.

In the bathroom are a separate toilet, large basin, and large rain-effect shower. The space is impressive, though in a slightly quirky design flaw, the controls for the shower are almost too far from the water meaning you have to step back and forth to get the temperature right. Sliding doors open to reveal an outdoor shower which is well-screened from other chalets, but less so from your own chalet’s deck.

In the three family chalets, a second bedroom with twin beds draped in separate mosquito nets and more luggage storage is separated from the master bedroom by a short corridor. Large windows allow plenty of natural light into the room but there are no doors to the outside, making it perfect for children. The two bedrooms share the same bathroom.

Well-marked sandy paths link the chalets to the capacious main area. It is worth noting that while the tracks are generally flat and well-maintained, it is a walk of several hundred meters from the furthest chalets to the main area. However, there is parking beside each chalet, so it is possible to drive between the two if the walk is too much.

The main building is a modern take on a traditional safari lodge, with an intricate wooden frame supporting a high thatched roof giving a light, airy feel to the whole structure. The open-fronted reception area merges with a well-stocked bar, and numerous sofas and chairs look out over the swimming pool and onto the bush and waterhole beyond.

To one side are a well-stocked curio shop and snug lounge centred on a large indoor fireplace. While the lounge looked comfortable enough when we stayed, the weather was warm and fine so it seemed seldom used, but we can imagine this would be an appealing spot to cosy up with a book or enjoy an aperitif before dinner in the cooler winter months.

The dining area, to the other side, is vast; even when the lodge is full we cannot imagine that it would feel busy. This is where a buffet breakfast is served, and in poor weather other meals as well. Large windows, chandeliers and artistic Namibian portraits help lighten and soften the space that might otherwise feel a touch cavernous.

At the far end, bi-fold doors open onto a covered patio where lunch and dinner are served, weather permitting. On our stay, we were lucky enough to have our delicious evening meal interrupted by the appearance of the reserve's white rhino drinking at the waterhole.

In front of the restaurant, several private walkways lead to individual sundowner spots. When I arrived for mine, I was delighted to find a gin bar set up with a selection of local Namibian gins, along with the usual range of drinks. With a local gin in hand, I headed to a cosy spot featuring a couple of comfortable chairs, a small table, and a parasol. I settled in to watch zebras, wildebeests, and warthogs roam as the sunset. Later, I moved to my beautifully arranged dinner table on the veranda, which also overlooked the waterhole.

Activities at Oberland were a little limited when we visited. The only guided game drive option is a 7–8 hour Etosha Park full-day excursion, which departs in the early morning; a lunch pack is included. However, being so close to the park the lodge is well-placed for self-drive guests to explore in their hire vehicle.
Guided Bushwalks are available as well, you'll dive deep into discovering the region’s fascinating flora and fauna. Your guide will share exciting insights into the natural surroundings, making for a truly enriching experience. Exploring the bush on foot, tracking antelope and birdlife, and learning about the traditional medicinal uses of native plants are all things you simply can’t experience on a game drive in Etosha, where getting out of the vehicle isn't allowed. The walk takes you through dense bushland, transitions into mopane forest, and eventually opens up into savannah.

The walk lasts between 1.5 to 3 hours (covering 5-9 kilometers, with shorter routes available).

Geographics

Location
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
Two or three nights
Directions
Etosha Oberland Lodge is located about 6km south-east of Etosha's Andersson Gate.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
The quality of the food at Etosha Oberland was again superb on our last visit in April 2024. We understand that with advanced notice most dietary requirements can be accommodated.

An extensive buffet breakfast includes cereal, fruit, yoghurt, freshly baked bread and muffins, juices, tea and coffee. Hot dishes, including bacon, tomatoes, sausages and eggs, are available to order.

We didn't have the chance to enjoy lunch during our stay but we believe that options including burgers, wraps and salads can be ordered from an à la carte menu. Lunch packs are available on request.

Dinner was one of the surprise highlights of our stay: the five-course set menu was excellent from start to finish. An amuse-bouche of bacon wrapped fig was followed by a superb fresh tomato, mozzarella and aubergine tower. A mixed fruit granita cleared the pallet before a perfectly cooked steak served with parsley-infused garlic rice and roasted vegetables. We then, somehow, managed to make space for the delicious homemade cheesecake before heading off to bed feeling contented and very full.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Private dining can be arranged on request; please speak to us if you would like to know more.
Drinks included
Drinks are not included, and the chalet minibars run on an honesty system.
Water is pumped from a borehole so while it may be safe to drink, it could taste a little salty; bottled water is available for an additional cost.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome at Etosha Oberland Lodge.
Property’s age restrictions
There is no age restriction at the lodge itself. However, the minimum age for guided drives into Etosha National Park is 12 years.
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
Three family rooms, each with an additional bedroom. There are currently no cots or highchairs.
Generally recommended for children
There is not a huge amount to keep children entertained, apart from the swimming pool.
Notes
Children must be supervised at all times, especially at the unfenced pool on the terrace.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Etosha Oberland Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Etosha Oberland Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Wildebeest

88% success

Zebra

86% success

Giraffe

71% success

Oryx

67% success

White Rhino

67% success

Spotted Hyena

60% success

Black Rhino

57% success

Elephant

50% success

Lion

50% success

Roan antelope

50% success

Eland

43% success

Cheetah

20% success

Leopard

20% success

Sable antelope

20% success

Aardvark

0% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a backup generator.
Communications
Complimentary WiFi is available in the main building and rooms although it can be intermittent. There is a cellphone signal at the lodge.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
There are flushing toilets and plumbed in showers.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Outjo, just over an hour’s drive away. In an emergency patients would be flown to Windhoek for treatment.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There is a guard on duty at the reserve’s entrance 24/7.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in the chalets and in the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is available for an extra charge.
Money
There is a small digital safe in every chalet.
Accepted payment on location
Payments may be made with Visa and Mastercard, and in cash with Namibian dollars or South African rand.

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Etosha Oberland Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Etosha Oberland Lodge.


Other lodges in Etosha National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Okaukuejo Camp

Okaukuejo Camp

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82% (726 reviews)
Halali Camp

Halali Camp

The smallest of Etosha's erstwhile restcamps, overlooking its own floodlit waterhole, Halali has a superb location near the centre of Etosha Pan.


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Mushara Bush Camp

Mushara Bush Camp

The family-friendly Mushara Bush Camp offers great value and is an excellent base from which to explore Etosha National Park.


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Ongava Lodge

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Ongava Tented Camp

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Onguma Tented Camp

Onguma Tented Camp

Onguma Tented Camp is a lovely, little tented camp which centres around an attractive waterhole a short drive from the Von Lindequist Gate to eastern Etosha.


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Mushara Lodge

Mushara Lodge

Close to the eastern entrance to Etosha, the comfortable Mushara Lodge is well-placed for exploring the park in your own vehicle or on a guided drive.


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Dolomite Camp

Dolomite Camp

Opened in 2011, Dolomite Camp allows visitors access to the far west side of Etosha National Park, which was previously off limits to most visitors.


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Onguma Bush Camp

Onguma Bush Camp

For great wildlife viewing without breaking the bank, the affordable and understated luxury of Onguma Bush Camp could be perfect.


94% (92 reviews)
Namutoni Camp

Namutoni Camp

Centred on an old fort, the government run Namutoni Camp is located just inside Etosha National Park, close to Fisher's Pan.


82% (90 reviews)
Hobatere Lodge

Hobatere Lodge

To the west of Etosha National Park, on the edge of Damaraland, Hobatere Lodge offers good game-viewing on its own reserve.


88% (78 reviews)
Mushara Outpost

Mushara Outpost

Intimate and luxurious, Mushara Outpost is well-placed on a private reserve to explore nearby Etosha National Park on your own or on a guided drive.


94% (75 reviews)
Safarihoek Lodge

Safarihoek Lodge

At the heart of the private Etosha Heights Reserve, Safarihoek Lodge offers comfortable accommodation and excellent game-viewing.


95% (49 reviews)
Onguma The Fort

Onguma The Fort

The Fort is the jewel in the crown of the Onguma lodges, and arguably the whole of eastern Etosha.


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Onguma Camp Kala

Onguma Camp Kala

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Onguma Forest Camp

Onguma Forest Camp

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Etosha Safari Lodge

Etosha Safari Lodge

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Little Ongava

Little Ongava

The beautifully located and luxurious Little Ongava is a stunning place to stay in order to explore Etosha National Park and the private Ongava Reserve.


97% (26 reviews)
Taleni Etosha Village

Taleni Etosha Village

Only 4km from Etosha's southern entrance, Taleni Etosha Village is an affordable base from which to explore the park.


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Etosha Safari Camp

Etosha Safari Camp

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Andersson's at Ongava

Andersson's at Ongava

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Mountain Lodge

Mountain Lodge

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Mokuti Etosha Lodge

Mokuti Etosha Lodge

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Vreugde Guest Farm

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Villa Mushara

Villa Mushara

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Etosha King Nehale

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Safari House

Safari House

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Toshari Lodge

Toshari Lodge

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Onkoshi Camp

Onkoshi Camp

Onkoshi Camp is owned and run by Namibia Wildlife Resorts. Built on elevated wooden platforms it overlooks Etosha Pan.


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When to go to Etosha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Etosha Oberland Lodge in Etosha National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Etosha National Park in January

January marks the start of Etosha's main rainy season. The Etosha Pan, usually a vast expanse of white clay, may partially fill with water in good rainy season, attracting flamingos and other migratory birds. The landscape transforms into a lush green oasis, providing ample food for wildlife. Many animals give birth during this time, offering chances to see newborns.

While game viewing can be challenging due to dispersed wildlife and thick vegetation, birdwatching is excellent. Migratory species arrive and birds display breeding plumage. The Okaukuejo and Halali waterholes remain active, though less crowded than in dry months. Visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and potentially muddy roads, especially around Fischer's Pan.

The vibrant greenery and the presence of young animals make this a fantastic time for photography.

  • Variable weather: hot, dry or humid with rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms in Etosha
  • Many animals with young; spectacular birdlife
  • Wildlife dispersed, harder to see in Etosha
  • Fewer tourists; low rates at most lodges

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Etosha National Park in February

February is typically Etosha's wettest month. The Etosha Pan may be partially filled, creating a spectacular sight and attracting numerous waterbirds, including flamingos. The landscape is vibrantly green, with many animals raising their young.

While game viewing can be more challenging due to the abundance of water and vegetation, patient observers can spot a variety of wildlife, and share their sightings with fewer other visitors. Birdwatching is excellent, with many species in breeding plumage. The Fairy Tale Forest near Okaukuejo is particularly lush during this time.

Visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and potentially challenging road conditions, especially in the eastern part of the park. The lush environment and the presence of young animals provide a unique opportunity to witness the park's life cycle.

  • Variable weather with occasional thunderstorms
  • Bush feels alive; birdlife at its peak in Etosha
  • Wildlife in Etosha dispersed, harder to spot
  • A variety of newborn and young wildlife to see
  • Few tourists; lowest rates for accommodations

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Etosha National Park in March

As Etosha's main rains taper off, March offers a mix of wet and dry days. The landscape remains green and alive, with insects and smaller animals more easily seen, and many birds and animals are finishing raising their young.

The Etosha Pan may still hold some water, attracting flamingos and other waterbirds. Game viewing improves as the month progresses and animals start to herd together at permanent water sources. The Okaukuejo, Halali, and Namutoni waterholes become increasingly active.

Birdwatching remains excellent, with many migrant species still around. The Dolomite Camp area in the west offers good chances to spot rarer antelope species like black-faced impala.

The transition from wet to dry conditions provides a fascinating glimpse into the park's seasonal changes.

  • Weather variable; thunderstorms less frequent
  • Animals well-fed after months of abundance
  • Wildlife in Etosha still dispersed, harder to see
  • Migrant birds prepare to leave the park
  • Few visitors; rates often low at Etosha lodges

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Etosha National Park in April

April typically sees dry weather dominating in Etosha, with decreasing chances of rain. The landscape remains relatively green, and animals are in excellent condition with shiny coats. Increasing numbers of elephants seen as the herds begin to use the permanent water sources. The Okaukuejo waterhole becomes particularly active, especially in the evenings.

Photographers benefit from clear air and lush, green backdrop. Night drives from camps like Halali offer chances to see nocturnal animals. Birdwatching remains good, though some migratory species begin to depart, and the Fischer's Pan area can still be productive for waterbirds if there's residual water from the rainy season.

The shift towards drier conditions improves the chances of wildlife sightings.

  • Becoming drier and cooler, especially at night
  • Few visitors except around Easter; low rates
  • Wildlife in Etosha still relatively spread out
  • Migrant birds have largely left the park
  • Fresh air and often green landscapes in Etosha

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Etosha National Park in May

May marks the transition to Etosha's dry season. The landscape starts to dry out, but may still retain some greenery. Wildlife increasingly gathers around permanent water sources, making game viewing more predictable. The Okaukuejo, Halali, and Namutoni waterholes become excellent spots for animal observation – especially when floodlit after dark. Night drives offer opportunities to see nocturnal species like leopards and owls.

The Etosha Pan is usually dry, creating a stark, shimmering backdrop for photography. Birdwatching remains good, with 340 different species recorded in the park. The western part of the park, accessible from Dolomite Camp, offers chances to see rarer species like black rhino in a less frequently explored environment. The dry season's onset brings a new rhythm to the park's wildlife dynamics.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • Etosha drying out; landscapes still partly green
  • Fantastic air clarity; ideal for photography
  • Visitor numbers low; lodge rates still low
  • Wildlife starting to gather at Etosha waterholes

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Etosha National Park in June

June brings cooler temperatures with clear skies to Etosha. The landscape is drying out, encouraging animals like elephants, rhino and giraffe to waterholes. This makes for excellent game viewing, especially at popular spots like Okaukuejo and Halali. Night drives on private Etosha reserves, like Ongava, are particularly productive.

The dry Etosha Pan creates mirages and a unique backdrop for photography, perhaps a lone ostrich crossing the stark salt crust. Birdwatching remains rewarding, with bright colours standing out in drier vegetation. The Namutoni area, with its fort, provides a mix of wildlife viewing and historical interest.

Cooler temperatures making walking safaris enjoyable in Etosha’s adjacent wildlife reserves, like Etosha Heights.

  • Clear days, cold nights in Etosha National Park
  • Great air quality; perfect for photographers
  • Moderate lodge rates; shoulder season begins
  • Wildlife gravitates to Etosha's waterholes
  • Some greenery remains in parts of the park

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Etosha National Park in July

July is prime time for wildlife viewing in Etosha as animals, in particular predators, are more active later in cool mornings and earlier in the afternoons. The dry landscape concentrates animals around waterholes, making for predictable and spectacular sightings. The Okaukuejo waterhole is particularly active, especially at night when black rhinos often visit and jostle for position with elephants.

The stark white Etosha Pan creates a unique backdrop for photography, with heat mirages shimmering on the horizon.

The dry season's peak offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Game drives along the southern edge of the pan offer excellent opportunities to see large herds of zebra, wildebeest, and antelope. Birdwatching is rewarding around waterholes, with species like eagles and vultures frequently sighted.

  • Dry days, crisp nights; excellent for stargazing
  • European holidays begin; more families visit
  • Peak season; high rates, lodges often full
  • Fantastic wildlife watching
  • Animals concentrate around Etosha waterholes

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Etosha National Park in August

August is the height of the dry season in Etosha, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Animals concentrate around waterholes, with a variety of predators and prey often seen at any one time. Night viewing at the more secluded yet floodlit waterhole at Halali is often rewarded with sightings of shyer leopard and porcupine.

The dry season's intensity brings wildlife into sharp focus. The open plains along the edge of the Etosha Pan are good for seeing large herds of zebra and wildebeest, and often cheetah too. Predators often lie in wait for their prey near waterholes offering sightings of hunts to patient game viewers.

Birdwatching remains rewarding, with raptors like bateleur and martial eagles frequently sighted.

  • Dry days, cold nights; clear skies in Etosha
  • Busy by Namibian standards; family rooms full
  • Peak season; high rates, advanced booking needed
  • Excellent wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park
  • Large herds gather at Etosha's waterholes

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Etosha National Park in September

September offers peak wildlife viewing in Etosha. The extreme dry conditions concentrate animals around waterholes, making for spectacular sightings of multiple species. The Okaukuejo waterhole is particularly active, with elephants, rhinos, and lions frequently visiting.

The last months of the dry season showcases the park's wildlife at its most concentrated. The stark landscape of the dry Etosha Pan creates dramatic backdrops for photography. Game drives along the pan's edge offer chances to see large herds of zebra, springbok, and oryx as well as lion prides and cheetah. The western part of the park, accessible from Dolomite Camp, often provides a more exclusive safari experience with good rhino sightings. Night drives on adjacent private reserves like Hobatere offer opportunities to see nocturnal animals such as genets and aardwolves.

Birdwatching is excellent, with species standing out clearly in the sparse vegetation.

  • One of the best months for Etosha wildlife viewing
  • Warm days, cold nights; temperatures rising
  • Colourful birds stand out against a starker backdrop
  • Etosha's waterholes teem with diverse wildlife
  • High season; book Etosha accommodations early

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Etosha National Park in October

October is typically Etosha's hottest and driest month, offering excellent wildlife viewing. The intense heat and dry conditions heighten the drama of wildlife interactions.

Animals concentrate heavily around waterholes, with spectacular sightings common at Okaukuejo, Halali, and other permanent water sources. Patient photographers spending time at waterholes are richly rewarded. Large herds of zebra, wildebeest, and various antelope species can be seen along the pan's southern edge. Predator sightings, including lions and cheetahs, are frequent as they target gathered and weakened prey. Thinning vegetation at Namutoni makes it easier to spot the dimunitive Damara dik dik – Namibia’s smallest antelope.

Birdwatching remains rewarding, with raptors and colourful rollers often spotted.

  • Peak wildlife-viewing month in Etosha National Park
  • Hot and dry; Etosha feels like a desert
  • Air can be hazy with dust in some areas
  • Peak time; expect high season rates in Etosha
  • Etosha lodges often full, especially early October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Etosha National Park in November

November marks the transition to Etosha's rainy season, bringing change to the landscape and wildlife behaviour. Early rains may green the vegetation, dispersing some wildlife from waterholes. However, game viewing remains good, especially around permanent water sources like Okaukuejo and Halali’s floodlit waterholes.

The first rains can create dramatic scenes as animals celebrate the water's arrival, with plains game often giving birth. Predators often give birth at this time too, to coincide with the time of plenty. Migratory birds begin to return, and birds take to the skies in spectacular aerial shows as they catch more active insects.

Seasonal wildflowers and dramatic, thundery skies add interest to photographic compositions. Summer rains bring reptiles such as tortoises and chameleons out into the open. The onset of rains brings a refreshing change to the park's ecosystem.

  • Variable month in Etosha, depending on rains
  • If rain comes, explosion of vegetation and life
  • Baby animals often born around mid-month
  • Shoulder season; mid-range rates offer value
  • Showers more likely later in the month in Etosha

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Etosha National Park in December

December is often a drier month before January sees the main rainy season begin. The landscape begins to show green from November's rain and the odd rainshower in December. Many animals have young, so there’s the chance to watch frolicking calfs and lambs.

The combination of rainfall and sunshine rejuvenates the park's landscapes and wildlife. While wildlife disperses away from the waterholes with increased water availability, game viewing remains good, especially on the open plains along the southern edge of Etosha Pan. Birdwatching is excellent, with many species in breeding plumage and displaying for mates as well as migrant species arriving.

Visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and potentially muddy roads, especially in the eastern part of the park.

  • Hot, sometimes humid with cooling showers
  • Landscapes green where rain has fallen in Etosha
  • New life and energy in the park's ecosystem
  • Excellent for birdwatchers in Etosha
  • Larger animals may be harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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