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Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp

About Ongava Tented Camp

At the heart of the small Ongava Tented Camp, a tree-shaded waterhole draws the eye.

Easily visible from the main area and the pool, as well as from some of the spacious tents, it attracts all manner of wildlife.

Zebra tend to congregate year round, lions might laze around the edge, and it’s not unknown for rhinos to stop by for a drink. There’s even a night-vision camera set up here, so you can see at breakfast time who popped in for a visit after dark!

With such animal appeal on your doorstep, it would be easy to think you need go no further than this relaxed camp, but that would be a mistake. Sharing a boundary with Namibia’s flagship Etosha National Park, the private Ongava Game Reserve boasts very similar wildlife, but here the opportunities are so much greater.

While game drives into the park are restricted to daylight hours, those on the reserve can continue after sunset. Guided walks, too, are possible at Ongava, perhaps even – if you’re very lucky – to watch rhino.

Back at camp, continue your immersion in the bush with an outdoor shower before retiring after dinner for a nightcap by the fire – with a view of the waterhole, of course. Who knows what might turn up before you head to your chalet – and a comfy bed?

Our view

With its homely atmosphere, busy waterhole and luxury bushcamp feel, Ongava Tented Camp can be a delight. It’s as close as you’ll find around Etosha to the safari camps in Botswana, and elsewhere in Africa, and is at its best when you take advantage of the organised activities – especially the guided walks. Although the camp can be used as a base for self-drive excursions into Etosha, it's probably not the best choice for this as it’s relatively costly, and a half-hour drive from the main access road to the park.

Richard Trillo

Richard Trillo

Namibia expert

Accommodation

8 tents

Children

Best for 13+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Night drive

Night drive

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Ongava Tented Camp

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


93%
162 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
122
Good
30
Average
6
Poor
4
Terrible
0
Mr&mrs Afromlondon

Arrived 27 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"Our v favourite lodge... Everything amazing... So many animals to be seen ... …" Read Mr&mrs A’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Smiths fromcheshire

Arrived 22 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"fantastic location …" Read Smiths ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Drs Ken & NirufromDevon

Arrived 1 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"Very friendly and helpful staff, nice tents and good food, excellent waterhole …" Read Drs Ken & Niru’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms C.fromSwitzerland

Arrived 28 Sep 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"another highlight - staff were friendly and attentive. Etosha was fantastic. …" Read Ms C.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs PfromReading

Arrived 14 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"very busy waterhole …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H fromLeicester

Arrived 21 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Fabulous location for game watching"

"his camp seemed to offer more facilities …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs CfromBucks

Arrived 20 Aug 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"a splendid waterhole, mother and very small baby white rhino - excellent guide …" Read Mr & Mrs C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Miss GfromCalifornia

Arrived 20 Jun 2024, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"Best part of my trip! .. the place to be ...I didn't want to leave! …" Read Miss G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs MfromCambridge

Arrived 1 May 2024, 4 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"...lovely and very informative guide; beautiful reserve ... …" Read Mr & Mrs M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs PaulfromSurrey

Arrived 28 Oct 2023, 3 nights

"Ongava Tented Camp review"

"Easily the best location we stayed for wildlife and experience. …" Read Mr & Mrs Paul’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Ongava Tented Camp reviews

Safaris visiting Ongava Tented Camp

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Bateleur Fly-in Safari

7 days • 4 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Classic fly-in Namibian safari staying at excellent camps. Explore Sossusvlei’s dunes and track Damaraland’s desert elephants before a safari in Etosha. Incredible scenery, good wildlife viewing and authentic cultural experiences.

Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 2 other areas

US$7,300 - US$9,390 per person

Read more about the Bateleur Fly-in Safari

Map

Pelican Fly & Drive Safari

10 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.

Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 3 other areas

US$7,700 - US$8,760 per person

Read more about the Pelican Fly & Drive Safari

Map

Goshawk Fly-in Safari

12 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Discover Namibia’s remarkable landscapes, fascinating wildlife and unique cultures on this luxury adventure flying between a selection of the very best camps and lodges in the country.

Visiting NamibRand, Damaraland and 3 other areas

US$13,430 - US$20,120 per person

Read more about the Goshawk Fly-in Safari

Ongava Tented Camp: Our full report

Nestled in mopane woodland, Ongava Tented Camp overlooks a waterhole within the private Ongava Game Reserve.

This 300km² reserve, which offers both day and night drives and guided walks, borders Etosha National Park on the south side, near the Andersson Gate, and benefits from similar wildlife, with the notable inclusion of both black and white rhino.

Set at the foot of a low hill, Ongava Tented Camp has just eight large, Meru-style tents, all raised up on wooden decks, and some with views over the waterhole. The tents are configured as six twin-bedded tents, one double, and a family unit made up of two tents connected via a single deck.

Each of the tents is entered through wooden double doors from a large veranda set with directors' chairs. Inside, they're comfortably furnished with a central bed, a sofa and an old-fashioned chair and desk. A dividing wall behind the bed conceals a cupboard, luggage rack and laundry basket.

Although each tent has a ceiling fan, it is not very powerful. More effective is the natural breeze at night, which stirs the canvas walls and keeps the rooms cool, but the tents can be very hot during the day.

At the back of the tent, the bathroom has a toilet on one side and an open shower on the other. Between the two are his and hers sinks with mirrors and a selection of toiletries. A door leads to an outdoor shower, which, although open, cannot be seen from neighbouring tents.

Ongava Tented Camp's stone-and-thatch main area includes a bar and lounge, where the soft furnishings had just been replaced on our last visit in March 2017, ready for the high season. It looked very clean and comfortable and the choice of fabrics added a touch of colour and modernity to the traditional structure. There’s a small selection of books here, as well as a photo album showing previous game sightings.

In the adjoining dining room, the wooden tables and chairs suit individual dining, but they can be brought together if guests would like to eat communally or in a small group.

Outside, offering great views of the much-frequented waterhole, is a refreshing swimming pool and patio. When we visited they had just refurbished the pool, decreasing its size slightly, but thereby extending the patio area.

To one side of the main area, directors' chairs are arranged in a circle around a firepit – perfect for pre- and post-dinner drinks – and another row of chairs faces the waterhole so you can watch the comings and goings there. Just a few metres from the front of the camp, it is particularly popular with game during the dry season – yet although it was towards the end of a very rainy, wet season during our last visit, we saw numerous zebra here. On a previous visit, a group of six lions spent two days snoozing by the waterhole, and in the evening two rhinos came by for a drink during dinner. Needless to say, our unfinished desserts were soon forgotten!

One special feature of Ongava Tented Camp is the camera set up by the waterhole, which automatically takes pictures when movement is detected, even after dark. So in the morning, guests can take a look to see who stopped by while they were sleeping!

Ongava Tented Camp shares the Ongava Reserve with its three sister lodges, Ongava Lodge, Little Ongava and Andersson’s at Ongava. Activities (included in the rates at the Tented Camp) are the same at all, encompassing game drives (day and night) and guided walks on the reserve, and daytime game drives into Etosha – where night drives and walks are not permitted.

The Ongava Reserve's proximity to Etosha means that some of the smaller plains game can cross between the two, whilst reintroduction of a large number of species, including giraffe, waterbuck, springbok etc, ensures that game viewing is very good on the reserve itself. Ongava is also one of relatively few private game reserves in southern Africa where you have a real chance to see both black and white rhino.

Since driving in Etosha National Park is only permitted between sunrise and sunset, game drives into the park, in open 4x4 vehicles, are normally in the morning. On the reserve, however, game drives normally set off in the afternoon and are combined with a stop around sunset for a sundowner. If you are lucky enough to encounter a white rhino and your guide considers the conditions to be suitable, it may be possible to get out of the vehicle and approach the rhino. This is done with extreme care and in single file behind your guide who carries a rifle for safety. Night drives are also normally an option in the reserve, although our most recent visit was in the rainy season, and the state of the tracks made night driving impossible.

Guided walks on the reserve focus primarily on things you may miss from a safari vehicle. When we stayed at Ongava Lodge in March 2017, our morning walk was so fascinating that we stayed out for nearly three hours! Our knowledgeable guide discussed the flowers and the trees that we passed, the tracks and dung of animals that had moved through the area and various birds that we saw. However, the highlight for us was a large flap-necked chameleon that scampered from the ground into a nearby bush.

Geographics

Location
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2–3 nights
Directions
The Ongava Reserve is west of the C38, just before the Andersson Gate into Etosha National Park. The drive through the reserve to Ongava Tented Camp is along a gravel road, and takes about 30 minutes, during which you are likely to spot antelope such as kudu and oryx.

The Ongava Reserve has its own airstrip with scheduled flights in light aircraft from Windhoek, Swakopmund and Damaraland.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
Although we didn’t eat at Ongava Tented Camp on our most recent visit in March 2017, on a previous visit in May 2014 the food was varied and tasty.

Breakfast consists of a delicious buffet of freshly made bread, fruit, cereals and muffins with a choice of juices or tea and coffee. A hot breakfast is freshly cooked for each guest.

For lunch we had a chickpea salad, followed by a game steak sandwich.

Dinner is a set menu for starter and dessert, with the main being a 'help yourself' option. We ate biltong paté with melba toast, followed by a very tasty game stroganoff and chocolate and vanilla cheesecake.

Tea and coffee are available in the afternoons, along with a homemade cake. On our previous visit mini pizzas were also there to tempt us.
Dining style
Mixture of group dining and individual tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service is not available.
Drinks included
Included – except for premium brand and imported wines and spirits.

The tap water is considered to be drinkable, but bottled water is also available.

Special interests

Birdwatching
Ongava Tented Camp, on the Ongava Reserve and close to Etosha National Park, is a fantastic place for birdwatching in Namibia. Local specials include Namaqua sandgrouse, short-toed rock thrush, acacia pied barbet and yellow-bellied eremomela.
See ideas for Birdwatching in Namibia
Walking safaris
Ongava Tented Camp offers guided walking safaris focusing on the smaller things you may miss from the safari vehicle, such as the vegetation, tracks and trails, birds and insects. Larger game may also be encountered.
See ideas for Walking safaris in Namibia
Wildlife safaris
Within the Ongava Reserve, and with Etosha National Park on the doorstep, Ongava Tented Camp offers wonderful wildlife viewing including the opportunity to see black and white rhino, along with elephant, lion, cheetah, leopard and a plethora of plains game.
See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Ongava Tented Camp welcomes children aged six years and over.
Property’s age restrictions
No children under the age of six. Children must be at least 13 years old to do walking activities, and 16 years or older to take part in rhino walking activities. Families with children of 12 years or under must book a private vehicle, at an extra cost.
Special activities & services
There are no special activities for children.
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
Because of the intimate nature of the camp and the adult feel, we believe that it would be best for teenagers who would enjoy this atmosphere and could partake in most of the activities on offer. Families with younger children might be better suited at Andersson’s Camp or Ongava Lodge.
Notes
The camp is unfenced so there is a risk from dangerous wild animals entering the reserve. The pool is also unfenced. Children must be under parental supervision at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Ongava Tented Camp

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Ongava Tented Camp 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.

Giraffe

100% success

Lion

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Elephant

97% success

Oryx

97% success

White Rhino

97% success

Wildebeest

94% success

Black Rhino

81% success

Eland

50% success

Roan antelope

17% success

Brown Hyena

17% success

Spotted Hyena

14% success

Cheetah

13% success

Leopard

13% success

Sable antelope

9% success

Pangolin

4% success

Aardvark

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
Solar panels are used for lighting in the tents and to heat the water – so on rainy or cloudy days the water may be only lukewarm.
Communications
A central phone and internet service is available in reception for emergencies, but there is no cellphone reception. Very patchy WiFi is available in the central areas.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
The toilets are flushable and the showers plumbed in.

Sustainability

Ongava Tented Camp sustainability

Ongava’s Research Centre

Ongava Tented Camp is one of the leading properties to turn an unproductive cattle ranch in Northern Namibia into a 30,000-hectare private game reserve that has grown to become a safe haven to large concentrations of wildlife. Home to a diverse range of birds and reptiles, the highlight of Ongava’s conservation efforts is its research centre.

The centre operates conservation projects spanning over 120 square miles including successful breeding programmes of both black and white rhinos. Moreover, it is home to one of the largest and most important breeding populations of the rare black-faced impala. Nestled amongst an array of flora and fauna, the Ongava Research Centre further demonstrates its commitment to conservation by constantly looking to improve understanding of endangered species, in a bid to inform smarter decision-making and preserve Namibia’s natural environment.

In this sense, Ongava encourages guests to immerse themselves directly in the Ongava Research Centre project by participating in interactive presentations and Q&A sessions with on-site scientists, therefore providing them with a valuable insight into the most critical environmental issues of our time: protecting the natural environment.

A proud recipient of Namibia’s acclaimed 5-Flower Eco-Award, Ongava Tented Camp combines a high level of service with access to innovative sustainability projects, offering guests a memorable and culturally enriching experience.

See more great sustainability projects in Namibia

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Some staff at Ongava Tented Camp are first-aid trained. There is a small clinic at Okaukuejo that can treat minor complaints, and the nearest doctor is in Outjo. In event of an emergency, patients would be airlifted out to Windhoek.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There is an armed guard to escort you back to your tent at night as dangerous game can wander through the camp.
Fire safety
There is a fire extinguisher in each tent..

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Night drive

    Night drive

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included, with the exception of underwear.
Money
You cannot change money at Ongava Tented Camp.
Accepted payment on location
Payment may be made in Namibian dollars, South African rand, US dollars, GB pounds and euros cash, as well as by Visa and Mastercard credit cards and in travellers' cheques.

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Ongava Tented Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Ongava Tented Camp.


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When to go to Etosha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ongava Tented Camp 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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