Self-Drive Safari in Etosha National Park – Tips for Namibia Adventurers
- Anna & Tom
- Apr 2
- 4 min read
Etosha National Park in Namibia is one of the absolute highlights of any Namibia road trip. During our journey through Namibia, we spent five unforgettable days in the park, stayed in three different camps, and experienced breathtaking wildlife sightings. In this post, we share our experiences, the best tips, and everything you need to know for your own Etosha safari!
1. Why Choose a Self-Drive Safari in Etosha National Park?
The biggest advantage of a self-drive safari? You are completely independent! You can set your own pace, stay at the most beautiful waterholes for as long as you want, and flexibly plan your route. The park is well-equipped for self-drivers – with relatively well-maintained gravel roads, (not always perfectly readable) signs, and various accommodations inside and around the park.
Having your own vehicle also comes with responsibility: You should prepare well, respect the park rules, and ensure your car is suitable for the partially unpaved roads. A 4x4 is not strictly necessary, but definitely recommended, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
Of course, you can also book guided safari tours in the park – this can be a great option for a first visit to get a better feel for the environment. However, from the second day onwards, we highly recommend exploring the park on your own at your own pace.
2. Safari in Etosha National Park: Our Route
First Stop: Namutoni Camp – A Magical Start
We started our safari at Namutoni Camp, which is located near a historic German fort. Even on the way there, we spotted our first animals: zebras, wildebeests, elephants, and even a few giraffes. The camp itself has a fantastic waterhole that offers a magical spectacle, especially at sunset.
In almost every camp within the national park, you can either camp or rent a lodge – but be sure to book early, as accommodations sell out quickly.
For our first morning, we booked a guided safari from Namutoni. Early in the morning, we set off with our guide and a few other tourists in a safari vehicle for a wildlife tour – an incredible experience!
In the afternoon, we explored the park on our own for the first time, and did so again the next morning and throughout the rest of our stay. We wanted to make the most of our limited time, so we spent many hours driving around to see as many animals as possible.
Plan your safari drives in the early morning or late afternoon – this is when animals are most active!
👉 Tip: Each camp has a small supermarket where you can buy a map or guidebook of Etosha National Park. We highly recommend getting one at the start of your trip to help with navigation and finding waterholes. The book also has pages where you can check off the animals you’ve spotted – we had so much fun with this!
Second Stop: Halali Camp – On the Trail of Predators
On the third day, we made our way to Halali Camp, centrally located in the park and known for its popular waterhole. The drive to the camp itself is like a safari – so plan enough time to enjoy it properly!
One of our absolute highlights? We saw a lion family with their cubs at the waterhole – a truly surreal experience.
Third Stop: Okaukuejo Camp – Wildlife Up Close
Our last stop was the famous Okaukuejo Camp, known for its illuminated waterhole. And what can we say? It was simply spectacular!
Once again, we spent many hours on safari in our own car and were lucky enough to see elephants, springboks, and even rhinos, leopards, and cheetahs.
We sometimes spent hours at the waterhole (so always bring water and snacks on your game drives!) and were fascinated by the interactions between the animals. It truly felt like being part of a live National Geographic documentary.
📷 Tip: Have your camera (with a good zoom lens!) ready and soak in the incredible atmosphere.
3. Important Tips and the Best Time to Visit Etosha
Entrance Fees: When leaving the park, you must pay the park fee. Important: Register at each camp and state how long you’ll be staying. Keep your entry slips safe, as you will need them to exit the park (we speak from experience! 😄).
Follow the Rules: Always stay in your vehicle, adhere to speed limits, and respect the wildlife.
Water & Snacks: Don’t underestimate the heat – bring plenty of water and some snacks!
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May – October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as many animals gather at the remaining waterholes.
Accommodation: Book early and try to stay inside the national park if possible.
Clothing: We have put together a detailed Namibia packing list for you. Make sure to bring warmer clothes for the early morning – it can be chilly in open safari vehicles. Must-haves for your trip: a hat or cap, Vaseline* (for dry lips, absolutely essential!), a moisturizing nasal spray*, and binoculars* (for better wildlife viewing).
👉 Tip: Wear neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive green), especially for safaris. We recommend this type of clothing*. White is generally not advised.
4. Conclusion: An Unforgettable Adventure in Etosha National Park
Our safari in Etosha National Park was without a doubt one of the biggest highlights of our Namibia trip. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and the feeling of being so close to nature makes this park a must-see for any Namibia traveler.
Whether you’re an experienced safari-goer or embarking on your first African wildlife adventure – Etosha National Park will captivate you. So, pack your binoculars, fill up your tank, and get ready for your own safari adventure!
Do you need more inspiration for your Namibia trip? Check out these additional articles to help with your planning:
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