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Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge
Safarihoek Lodge

About Safarihoek Lodge

Warm thatch combines with contemporary styling at Safarihoek to create a decidedly modern take on a safari lodge.

Set on a hill overlooking a small waterhole and open expanses of mopane woodland within a huge private reserve, it’s both wonderfully remote and perfectly located for watching wildlife.

Square stone pillars flanked by a pole fence set the scene, leading in to a pleasantly unstructured area where concrete pathways that wind between the buildings introduce a sense of solidity.

Step inside the main area and that feeling is enhanced by smartly painted walls, sliding glass doors and a secure balcony set with bar stools around high tables. Then in the evening, a woodburner banishes the cold as you cosy up on leather armchairs with a coffee or perhaps a selection from the wine cellar.

Rooms, too, have none of the temporary feel often associated with safari lodges. Light and spacious, with views over the reserve from the bed or private balcony, they wouldn’t be out of place in a smart hotel.

But with its proximity to Etosha National Park, the reserve’s animals – including black rhino – are the major attraction. Seek them out on game drives, day and night, or watch from the split-level photographic hide as they come to you.

Our view

Safarihoek is a solid, modern lodge on a private reserve. While it isn't a base to visit the national park, it normally has a high density of wildlife and provides additional flexibility when it comes to activities, including the options of walks and night drives. The excellent photographic hide is also a real bonus. If you are considering a two-centre safari in the vicinity of Etosha, then Safarihoek would be a great option.

Sabina Hekandjo

Sabina Hekandjo

Namibia expert

Accommodation

11 thatched chalets

Children

Best for 12+

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 Safarihoek Lodge

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


95%
49 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
39
Good
8
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
0
E & HfromCanada

Arrived 24 Dec 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"our guide helped make our stay one of the best...food really good...enjoyed stay …" Read E & H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromYorkshire

Arrived 29 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"Safariehoek is amazing. We will be returning as soon as possible. …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

LyndafromNomad

Arrived 17 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"fabulous comfort …" Read Lynda’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Alan and DifromChippy

Arrived 19 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"Lovely welcome with a song and dance. Great location. …" Read Alan and Di’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs LfromGloucester

Arrived 9 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"a real African experience, sat at hide for sundowner and was amazed by animal . …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs J.fromChester

Arrived 28 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"A fantastic location overlooking the plain ... …" Read Mr & Mrs J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

H familyfromSurrey

Arrived 28 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"great wildlife spotting.. a very comfortable lodge …" Read H family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mike & DawnfromBolton

Arrived 24 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

" top notch camp, excellent facilities and staff; 20 feet of a pride of lions.. …" Read Mike & Dawn’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H fromLondon

Arrived 9 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"Beautiful lodge with an amazing view over the valley and waterhole. …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs BfromLondon

Arrived 2 Jul 2024, 2 nights

"Safarihoek Lodge review"

"Fantastic stay - outstanding reserve - delicious food - very high quality drives …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Safarihoek Lodge reviews

Safaris visiting Safarihoek Lodge

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


Map

Namaqua Chameleon Self-drive

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

A classic 12-night self-drive adventure around the highlights of eastern and northern Namibia taking in Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha and a final stop at Okonjima. Comfortable lodges and great value.

Visiting Okonjima, Etosha and 4 other areas

US$4,140 - US$5,240 per person

Read more about the Namaqua Chameleon Self-drive

Map

Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari

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

Stay in four of Namibia’s most famous environments on this fly-in safari. It would be hard to pack more variety into a trip of the same length.

Visiting Windhoek, NamibRand and 2 other areas

US$12,040 - US$14,550 per person

Read more about the Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari

Safarihoek Lodge: Our full report

Set on a hill within a private reserve, Safarihoek looks across a small waterhole towards Etosha National Park.

Also marketed as Etosha Heights Safarihoek Lodge, and opened in its current form in 2016, it’s a smart, contemporary place from which to explore the 600km², wildlife-rich Etosha Heights Reserve, which shares a 65km fence with Namibia's premier wildlife park.

Safarihoek is newer and more modern than its sister property, Mountain Lodge, which is also found on the reserve. Both are about two hours' drive from the national park's Andersson Gate.

We enjoyed our stay at Safarihoek in May 2022, enhanced by staff who were consistently friendly and attentive. In terms of décor, we felt that a few splashes of colour could add character and warmth to the modern style of the large rooms and high-ceilinged main area. Although, each of the 11 thatched chalets features a mural of its namesake native tree species on the bedroom wall a little more art would help bring these rooms to life.

All the chalets come with twin beds or a king-size bed with a mosquito net, air conditioning, a seating area, small writing desk, minibar, coffee station, and en-suite bathroom. Outside each there's a private deck with a table and chairs offering spectacular panoramic views; this is a great spot for a morning coffee, something stronger before dinner or simply to relax with a book between activities.

The chalets are divided into three types:

  • Two “standard” chalets, closest to the main area, are also wheelchair-friendly.
  • One dedicated family chalet, also close to the main area, has a small living area separating the master bedroom from the children's room, making it perfect for families looking for a little more space.
  • Eight “luxury” chalets are larger and more private, being better spaced and further from the main area; they also come with an additional outdoor shower. Two of these chalets connect with an inter-leading door, allowing conversion into a family room on request.
The thatched main area at Safarihoek has a shared lounge, indoor and outdoor bars and a restaurant – although, depending on the weather, meals may also be served on the deck overlooking the waterhole.

Along with a swimming pool there’s a second outside seating area and fireplace where you can enjoy the sunset with a drink, discuss your safari with other guests or admire the stars with a nightcap after dinner. An impressive wine cellar/lounge is occasionally used for more intimate private dining on special occasions. There’s also a small curio shop by the reception desk.

Although the Etosha Heights Reserve, one of the largest private reserves in Namibia, shares a border with the national park, activities at Safarihoek take place on the reserve itself due to the distance to the nearest park gate. (There are plans for access into Etosha from the reserve in the future, but this is a way off.) Options include morning and afternoon game drives, night drives, and bush walks with a focus on the smaller things; bush meals and picnics can be arranged on request. There are no organised trips to the national park, and while guests are welcome to drive the 70km or so themselves, this isn't generally recommended. The trip takes about two hours each way and as driving in the dark is prohibited, travellers would miss the prime wildlife-watching hours around sunrise and sunset.

Fortunately, on our visits we have enjoyed some great sightings on Etosha Heights, including several black rhino, elephant and giraffe, as well as general plains game and numerous interesting bird species – with a pygmy falcon standing out as a particular highlight. However, it is worth noting that animal densities here are not as high as in Etosha, especially in the rainy season (November to April) when much of the wildlife will migrate into the national park. Neither the reserve’s fence nor the National Park’s one pose much of a barrier to elephants, who don’t care for artificial restrictions on their range. As such, elephant-sized holes are a regular feature in these barriers making them porous for wildlife of all sizes.

For keen photographers or simply those who want a more relaxing activity, Safarihoek has a photographic hide. Accessed by vehicle or a short, escorted walk, and built over two levels, it was designed in collaboration with a Namibian wildlife photographer to give the best views of the animals and birds visiting the waterhole – which is floodlit at night – without disturbing them. Due to its orientation, the hide is best visited in the afternoon, as the glare off the water in the mornings can make it hard to see the animals, let alone photograph them. This said, once the sun had moved to the north the hide offered us a unique perspective on the wildlife that came to drink and provided a thoroughly enjoyable way to while away a couple of hours.

Geographics

Location
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2-3 nights to make the most of the hide and activities on offer.
Directions
Safarihoek is on the Etosha Heights Reserve, approximately 70km west of the Andersson Gate to Etosha.
Accessible by
Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
On our last stay in May 2022, we were generally impressed by the food here. The ever-friendly staff were attentive and, with advanced notice, can cater for most dietary needs.

Breakfast takes the form of a typically Namibian safari buffet of cereals, juices, toast, muffins, fresh fruit, yoghurt, cold meats and cheeses. Omelettes and other egg dishes, along with bacon and sausages, are cooked to order.

We didn't have lunch on our most recent visit, but on a previous stay we were treated to a bush picnic while watching elephant frolic in a waterhole on the reserve. Roasted vegetable frittata came with a selection of cheese, cold meat, bread, droewors and crackers, and was followed by fresh banana bread.

Dinner is served as a three-course meal. We enjoyed a Caprese salad starter with fresh bread rolls. Our main was a grilled beef steak with peppercorn sauce, served with rice, steamed broccoli and mashed pumpkin. The meal was rounded off with a malva pudding and ice cream. We chose to finish the evening with an Amarula by the fire – a wonderful way to relax after an afternoon bumping around in a safari vehicle.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Private dinners in the wine cellar on request.
Drinks included
Soft drinks, local beer, house wine and house spirits are included in the full-board rate. Due to the high salinity of the borehole water here, bottled water is provided during your stay.

Special interests

Family holidays
In the private Etosha Heights Reserve, Safarihoek Lodge is unusual amongst safari lodges in offering discount rates for children up to the age of 18. This makes it (and its sister properties on the reserve) great value on a family holiday to Namibia.
See ideas for Family holidays in Namibia
Birdwatching
For many, the draw of the Etosha Heights Reserve is the chance to see some of Namibia's larger animals. However, with a superb split-level hide and expert guides, Safarihoek Lodge also offers some very rewarding birdwatching.
See ideas for Birdwatching in Namibia
Photography holidays
Safarihoek Lodge boasts a spectacular split-level hide overlooking a pumped waterhole. Designed by a Namibian photographer in conjunction with the lodge, it allows for superb close-up photography of the reserve's animals and birdlife.
See ideas for Photography holidays in Namibia
Walking safaris
Safarihoek Lodge offers guided walks for more adventurous guests. Begin with a short drive from the lodge before the fun starts as you experience a whole new way of finding and viewing Namibia’s animals big and small.
See ideas for Walking safaris in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Safarihoek welcomes children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
Families with children under the age of 12 must book a private vehicle for game-viewing activities.
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
An additional bed can be requested in advance for families with young children.
Generally recommended for children
While Safarihoek has no age limit, the feel here is distinctly adult. We wouldn't recommend the lodge for families with young children.
Notes
There are numerous balconies and drop-offs, and an unfenced, unguarded pool, so children must be supervised at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Safarihoek Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Safarihoek 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.

Giraffe

100% success

Zebra

98% success

Oryx

98% success

Wildebeest

93% success

Black Rhino

90% success

Elephant

88% success

Eland

85% success

Lion

76% success

Sable antelope

47% success

White Rhino

45% success

Brown Hyena

26% success

Spotted Hyena

26% success

Roan antelope

19% success

Pangolin

7% success

Cheetah

4% success

Leopard

4% success

Aardvark

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a generator backup system.
Communications
Unlimited WiFi is available in the main area.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All the en-suite bathrooms have hot and cold running water and flush toilets. Note, though, that water is heated by a solar geyser so isn't endless, especially early in the morning.

Sustainability

Safarihoek Lodge sustainability

Creating a safe haven

Safarihoek is an active participant in the Etosha Rand Lion Conservation Project. Dedicated to mitigating the human–wildlife conflict and to protecting the now-threatened African lion, the organisation is monitoring lions both within Etosha Heights and other reserves to establish the best ways to manage this iconic species.

In addition, the lodge also works with the Namibia National Cheetah survey, which researches and monitors cheetah populations across the country and aims to implement measures to reduce the decline of the species.

Away from the big cats, a local team has also developed a vulture-feeding programme at Safarihoek’s hide to help attract vultures away from farmlands, where poisoned carcasses left out by farmers for carnivores that threaten their livestock are inadvertently contributing to the birds’ population decline.

See more great sustainability projects in Namibia

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The camp managers are trained in first aid. The nearest doctor is in Outjo. In a medical emergency, a traveller would be flown during daylight hours to Windhoek.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
The lodge is in a remote part of the Etosha Heights Reserve, which is fenced, and there are security guards at the reserve gate. An air horn is provided in each chalet to attract attention in case of an emergency.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in each chalet and around the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Night drive

    Night drive

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is included. Items are usually collected in the morning and returned in the evening, weather permitting.
Money
There is a small safe in each chalet. The lodge does not offer any currency-exchange facilities.
Accepted payment on location
Mastercard and Visa debit and credit cards are accepted by the lodge. Cash payments may be made in Namibian dollars, South African rand, GB sterling, US dollars and euros.

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Safarihoek Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Safarihoek Lodge.


Other lodges in Etosha National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Okaukuejo Camp

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Set within Etosha National Park, Okaukuejo Resort is a large camp with a productive, floodlit waterhole.


82% (726 reviews)
Halali Camp

Halali Camp

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Mushara Bush Camp

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Ongava Lodge

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Ongava Tented Camp

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Onguma Tented Camp

Onguma Tented Camp

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Mushara Lodge

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Dolomite Camp

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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.


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Namutoni Camp

Namutoni Camp

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Hobatere Lodge

Hobatere Lodge

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Mushara Outpost

Mushara Outpost

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Onguma The Fort

Onguma The Fort

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Onguma Camp Kala

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Onguma Forest Camp

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Etosha Safari Lodge

Etosha Safari Lodge

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Little Ongava

Little Ongava

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Taleni Etosha Village

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Etosha Safari Camp

Etosha Safari Camp

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Andersson's at Ongava

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Mountain Lodge

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Villa Mushara

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Safari House

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Onkoshi Camp

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When to go to Etosha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Safarihoek 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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