namibia safari animals

Namibia Wildlife

A guide to the animals of namibia.

Namibia is renowned for its otherworldliness, with epic landscapes and unique natural phenomenon, but Namibian wildlife is not to be missed, with some incredible animal spotting opportunities right across the country.

Conservation is now core to the Namibian psyche – so much so that it is one of the few countries n the world to include environmental protections in its constitution . This has led to 18% of the country becoming registered conservancies, and a further 19% of the landmass protected with reserves and national parks. As a result, the harsh Namibian terrain now shelters stable and growing populations of some of Africa’s most iconic safari species

Visitors to this strikingly beautiful country have the chance to witness the country’s innovative conservation measures first hand. Some of the country’s best areas for wildlife viewing areL

Etosha National Park

This park ranks as one of the world’s great wildlife venues. Come here on the right few days each year and the giant saltpan becomes a shallow lagoon teeming with flamingos and pelicans. The rest of the year the barren-looking landscape supports 114 mammal species, including endangered species such as the black faced impala and black rhino. More common sighing are ostrich, elephants, lion, cheetah, jackal, hyena, zebra, blue wildebeest, red hartebeest, and many many more.

Waterberg Plateau

The wild Waterberg takes in a 50km long, 16km wide sandstone plateau, rising 150 above the desert plain. The endangered species here are hard to see, due to the thick bush, but you could be rewarded with sightings of sable and roan antelopes, and black and white rhinos.  There are also rarely seen leopards.

Khaudum National Park

This remote wilderness is largely undeveloped, pristine bush that’s a home range to one of the country’s only protected populations of lions, and the only African wild dogs in Namibia. Alongside these species are large populations of elephant, zebra, giraffe, kudu, and oryx.

Mamili National Park

This little-visited national park is Namibia’s version of the Okavango Delta, with forested islands fringed with reed and papyrus marshes. Birding is a big draw here with more than 430 species counted, as well as many semi-aquatic animals including hippo, crocodile, otter, red lechwe, puku, and sitatunga.

Among Damaraland’s rugged mountain scenery in Namibia’s northwest live free-roaming populations of the incredibly rare desert elephant (only found here and in Mali), along with desert-adapted black rhino, lions, and giraffes.

With this breadth and variety in mind we’ve put together a selection of the most iconic animals in Namibia to spot:

13 Iconic Animals of Namibia:

A Namibian desert lion

Leaping in at first place is the lion, also known as the king of the jungle. Lions are the largest and most sociable of Africa’s cats . At up to 225 kg, the lion  ( Panthera leo ) really is the king of all savanna animals (not jungle!), though in Namibia these creatures are desert-adapted with slightly longer legs and shaggier coats than normal lions.

When you hear them roaring during the night, or the day, you’ll be amazed at how loud and powerful they actually are – don’t worry about not hearing the lions’ snarls or roars, as they can be heard from up to 8 kilometers away. It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see lions hunting, or lion cubs playing with each other (but watch out for those man-eating lions !).

African Elephant

An Etosha elephant, caked in mud

The African elephant ( Loxodonta africana ) is the largest land mammal and heaviest land animal in the world , weighing up to 6 tonnes. And in Namibia’s Etosha National Park the elephants are huge (meaning they’re fairly easy to spot!).

Elephants play a vital role in the survival of other species by digging waterholes in dry riverbeds, spreading seeds through theirs faecal matter, and creating natural fire breaks in the landscape with their trails, and they do all this on only 2 hours sleep in a 24 hour period!

Rhinocerous

The most elusive of the big five animals?

Rhinos are something you just need to see in real life to understand how impressive they really are.

Once widespread through sub-Saharan Africa, the rhino has been hunted to the brink of extinction, and is probably the hardest of the big five animals to spot in the wild. There are two species of rhinoceros in Africa – the black rhino ( Diceros bicornis ) and the white rhino ( Ceratotherium simum ).

Whilst white rhinos have made a comeback through conservation efforts across the continent, black rhinos are still very much one of Africa’s most endangered animals , and the hardest safari animals to spot. The fundamental differences between the white and black rhino are not color, but rather size, temperament, food preference, and mouth shape.

Cape Buffalo

Cape buffalo – the grumpiest of all safari animals!

Weighing in at not too far short of a ton, the African buffalo ( Syncerus caffer ) has a reputation for being bad-tempered and dangerous. Whilst solitary buffaloes can be unpredictable (and dangerous, hence their inclusion in the big five animals), they are usually a docile beast when in a herd… aside from their tendency to stampede en masse when alarmed.

Not sure about the differences between a bison and buffalo ?

Spotted Hyena

A cute hyena strolling…

There are four species in the hyena family , varying in size and shape.

Hyenas are unique and vital components of most African ecosystems, both taking advantage of other animals’ kills for easy meals and hunting themselves. The size of a hyena kill or scavenge is generally determined by the size of the hyena’s clan, which can run to dozens. They often hide extra food in watering holes, since nothing is wasted. Hyenas eat every part of an animal, including bones and hooves.

Zebras at a waterhole

Zebra are perhaps the most stylish of African animals, with their characteristically stunning coats of black and white stripes. These distant relatives of the horse are a frequent sight on any African safari and consist of three different species.

There are many theories about why zebras have stripes , and it seems that perhaps the most likely answer is that the stripes function as a way to deter biting insects like tsetse flies and mosquitos.

Plains zebras play a particularly interesting role in the ecosystem, as they are pioneer gazers, nibbling and feeding on the top-most layer of grass, thereby opening up the grassland for more specialized grazers looking for the short grasses tucked below.

A desert giraffe in Damaraland

Perhaps the ultimate icon of the African savanna , the giraffe is an unmistakable land mammal known for their long necks and spotted coat (and super-weird giraffe tongue !). They were known by Arab prophets as the ‘queen of the beasts’ because of their delicate features and graceful poise.

With nine subspecies sharing its distinctive characteristics, this African safari animal is the tallest in the world by some way, and amongst the heaviest and largest animals anywhere . The giraffe’s coat is characterized by dark blotches on lighter hair. With age, male giraffes may become darker, and while calves inherit spot patterns from their mothers, each giraffe has a unique coat pattern that sets it apart.

Giraffes have a sharp sense of hearing and smell, another defense against predators, while it can close its nostrils during sandstorms and against ants.

An adult aardvark in the grass

Aardvarks live throughout Africa, south of the Sahara. Their name comes from South Africa’s Afrikaans language and means ‘earth pig’. Being nocturnal, they spend the hot African afternoons resting in their cool underground burrows, and night time foraging in grasslands and forests for termites.

The elusive aardwolf

Aardwolves are nocturnal, solitary foragers, only coming together to mate and rear young. The name Aardwolf means ‘earth wolf’ in Afrikaans and stems from its supposed dog-like features and its diet of termites which it digs for in the ground and in the termite mounds.

A stunning oryx/gemsbok

There are 4 species of  oryx , all of which live in or on the fringes of desert areas, and can live for days without drinking water. Oryx eat foliage, grass, herbs, shrubs, plants, legumes, juicy fruits and roots, and buds, generating the water they need from these plant resources they eat.

Interesting oryx fact – the Arabian oryx is the first species to have changed back from ‘Extinct in the Wild’ to ‘Vulnerable’, as categorized in the IUCN Red List in 2011.

Bat-eared Fox

Can you see how it got its name?

As the name indicates, this fox has unusually enormous ears in proportion to its head, like those of many bats. Their bodies are generally yellow-brown with a pale throat and under parts. Bat-eared foxes are primarily found in East and Southern Africa where there are short-grass plains and plenty of termites and beetles.

Two ostriches walking in Damaraland

The common ostrich is the tallest and heaviest bird in the world, with an average height of over 2 meters (sometimes as tall as 2.7 meters) and a weight of up to 160 kg. At this size, the ostrich  is, of course,  flightless , but can outrun plenty of animals with its top speed of 69 km per hour. Their long, powerful legs double up as defensive weapons which pack a powerful kick to would-be predators.

Ostrich are very well adapted desert animals, able to survive without water for days, generating water internally and extracting water from vegetation.

A family of meerkats

The  meerkat, or suricate , is a small carnivoran in the  mongoose family . It is the only member of the genus Suricata. Meerkats are predominantly  desert animals  and live in all parts of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana, in much of the Namib Desert in Namibia and southwestern Angola, and in South Africa.

So there you have our take on the 13 most iconic species of Namibia wildlife you could expect to see when on safari in Namibia . What do you think – any controversial picks… or Namibia wildlife that are missing from the list? Let us know in the comments section below!

If you’re looking for more in-depth information on any of these – or other – African animals, you can check out our animal lists or animal comparisons .

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WildlifeTrip

World Wildlife Trips

14 Most Interesting Animals in Namibia

Last updated on November 23, 2021 in Birds , Mammals

Many travelers dream of going on safari in Africa where they can view wild animals in all their glory. Namibia, formerly part of South Africa, is a good place to start making your dream come true. While you may not see all of the Big Five – lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo and elephant – you should be able to cross a goodly number off your bucket list. The trick is knowing where to go. Etosha National Park is a great place to start, since its home to a wide variety of animals in Namibia.

14. Blue wildebeest

Though it resembles an American bison, because of its broad shoulders and heavy front end, the blue wildebeest is considered a large antelope, with cattle-like horns. It is an agile animal, quite aware of its surroundings. When it is spooked, it will take off running but stop after awhile, looking back to see if it’s still being chased. It lives in herds of 20 to 40 animals, preferring to live in southern Africa’s open savannahs. Etosha National Park is a good place to see them in the wild.

13. Spotted hyena

You shouldn’t have any problems spotting a spotted hyena in the wild since upwards of 47,000 exist in Africa. Also known as the laughing hyena, this animal is a native of sub-Sahara Africa, though the species roamed Europe and Asia in ancient times. Hyenas can be found mainly in Etosha and Skeleton Coast national parks, the Caprivi strip and Kaokoland. These bear-like animals are very social, running in packs that are dominated by the females. In the trivia department, the females have a pseudo penis and are the only mammal that doesn’t have a vaginal opening.

12. Ostrich

Ostriches can be found naturally in the wilds of Namibia. You’re more likely to see ostriches in the wild in the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, the Kalahari Desert or around Windhoek. Ostriches adapt well to the country’s deserts because they can go long periods without water. They prefer living on plains with short grasses and avoid rocky areas. If you don’t see any in their preferred habitat, however, you might try an ostrich farm. Ostriches are farmed in Namibia because their meat is lean and every body part can be used for other purposes besides food.

11. Brown fur seal

The cape fur seal, known as the brown fur seal in Namibia, is the largest of the seals. It is an at-risk animal that lives on the coasts of southern Africa. The seals are being threatened by loss of preferred habitat, global warming and man, including the Namibian government, which has an aggressive culling program. These clumsy-on-land graceful-in-water animals can be seen in coastal waters off Namibia, where about two-thirds of the 1.5-2 million cape fur seals live. Cape Frio, on the border with Angola, is one of their breeding grounds. If you scuba drive, don’t be surprised to find a friendly seal accompanying you.

10. African leopard

A good time to see the African leopard is early morning or late afternoon as these nocturnal cats are ending or starting their day. While leopards are hunted for sport in Namibia, they can be found in their natural environment at some conservation-oriented lodges such as Okonjima Bush Camp or Okonjima Main Lodge. These spotted animals look more fierce than kitten-cuddly. They eat everything from insects and antelopes to birds, fish and fruit. They stalk and pounce on their next meal, then may drag its carcass up a tree to protect it from other hungry animals.

9. Springbok

The springbok is the most common antelope in Namibia, where it can be found in the Namib Desert, around Windhoek, and Etosha National Park where it can be found mingling with zebras and wildebeests. The springbok is one of the fastest antelopes, making predators work for their dinner. Both sexes have horns and are prone to “pronking,” whereby, in a stiff-legged posture, they leap into the air multiple times, jumping as high as six feet. They can go several years between drinks of water, mainly because their water requirement is fulfilled by the vegetation they eat.

8. Plains zebra

The plains zebra is also known as Burchell’s zebra after the naturalist W.J. Burchell. These horse-like animals are noted for their black stripes, usually on a white ,but sometimes gold, background. Plains zebras may all look the same to the casual observer, but each individual has a stripe pattern that is unique to it. They’ll herd with other animals in Namibia, such as wildebeests and ostriches, because of the protection they provide from predators. When they flee from danger, they’ll do so at the speed of the slowest herd member. Chances are good for spotting them in the wild in Etosha National Park, since it’s one of the most common animals there with a 20,000 population.

The Kalahari offers your best chance to see meerkats in the wild, though these small mammals may also be found elsewhere in southern Namibia, including game lodges where they are used to humans. They don’t like very dry or very wet habitat. Visitors sometimes mistake ground squirrels for meerkats, even though the meerkat is a much bigger animal. It’s colored differently, too, being sandy or gray with a dark band across the back. When they sit upright on their hind legs, such as after getting up in the morning or when sunning themselves, they tend to resemble the American prairie dog.

The oryx gazelle is a species of antelope that is more familiarly known by its Afrikaans name, gemsbok. It is the national animal of Namibia, where they are found throughout the country, frequently along roadsides. The gemsbok is a hardy animal, able to live in harsh areas that are inhabitable to other antelope. Unlike other antelope, which are usually beige in color, the gemsbok is gray with black and white markings. They’re hunted for sport in Namibia, but it’s not uncommon for one gemsbok to die from fighting with another male, since the horns cause deep stab wounds.

5. South African Cheetah

The South African cheetah dominates the cheetah world in southern African, both in demeanor and numbers. Also known as the Namibian cheetah, this medium-sized cat has a vulnerable status, with only about 6,000 existing. More than half of them can be found in Namibia, especially in farming areas. They can also be found in the Kalahari Basin, Kaokoveld, Namib and the northeast, as well as the protected areas of Namib-Naukluft and Bwabwata national parks. The South African cheetah has a spotted bright yellow or gold coat with a white underside. The males are sociable and live in groups, while females prefer the solitary life.

The giraffe, the tallest of all animals, is a common sight in Etosha National Park, particularly on the road between Numatoni and Klein Numatoni. You’ll notice on this road that the acacia trees have flat tops – that was caused by giraffes snacking on them. The animals do well in dry areas because they can go a long time between drinks of water. They also have nostrils that close up when dust storms occur. The species gets its name from an Arab word, zaralah, which translates as “one who walks quickly.” Despite its gangly looks and height, the giraffe does indeed move quickly – as fast at 37 mph.

3. African Bush Elephant

If you’ve only seen live elephants in zoos or circuses before, you’re going to love seeing these Animals in Namibia in the wild. The country has a healthy elephant population. The dry winter months are the best time to see them in Etosha National Park, though any time is actually good. They can also be found in the Zambezi region where they skip customs to cross international borders into Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Often living to 70 years old, the African bush elephant can eat up to 500 pounds of vegetation and drink up to 50 quarts of water in a day. Hey! Whatever it takes to maintain that svelte 10-ton figure!

2. African Lion

The king of the beasts, the African Lion, can be found in several places in Namibia, mostly in the north: Etosha National Park, Kunene, Kaudom and Caprivi. Etosha, Kaudom and a small section of Caprivi have the highest populations. A smaller number can be found in the south at the ecotourist-oriented Kalahari Game Lodge. Your chances of seeing these magnificent creatures may only be so-so, since there are only about 800 lions in the wild, despite Namibia being a force behind lion preservation efforts. FYI, the lion is the only animal that will attack a standing giraffe.

1. White rhinoceros

Namibia is a good place to see white rhinoceros, an animal that is found mostly in four countries in Africa: Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Once nearly extinct, their population has increased sufficiently to remove them from the endangered list; they are the only rhino species not on the list. Their name is derived from an Afrikaans word, “weit,” which means wide, not white. The wide refers to their wide muzzle, not the color of their hide. Their preferred habitat is grassy savannahs. Etosha National Park is a good place to see them.

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• Namibia Wildlife

At first, Namibia, seems a like a country’s filled with deserts and its large sand dunes, but Namibia is much more that. Let’s us take you through some most fascinating Namibia Wildlife . By readings all these facts, you will feel like you’re actually on Namibia Safaris , and enjoying its adventure and watching its wildlife, with out even stepping into this country.

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You can count on Namibia as a leading safari destination in Arica. This is much more than just stunning scenery. The diverse ecosystem of Namibia accommodates a vast variety of wildlife. Out of the diverse range of wildlife, here are our top 10 animals of Namibia Wildlife , with a higher sighting percentage.

Oryx has one of the highest sighting percentages (80%) in the national parks of Namibia. The unique thing about this species is they easily live for days without drinking water. You can easily spot these unique species in Etosha and Namib and Naukluft National Parks.

• African Elephant

With over 79% sighting percentage, African elephants are commonly seen in most national parks in Namibia. This largest land mammal weighs up to 6 tons. And out of all national parks in Namibia, the Etosha National Park boast the highest number of African Elephant.

You can’t miss Rhinos during Namibia Safari Tours . Rhinos are extensive across all major national parks in Namibia.  And the Etosha National Park is home to the largest population of Rhinos in Namibia. The sighting percentage of Rhinos is more than 50%.

Do you know: It's not the colour that differentiates the black rhinos from white rhinos, it’s the weight, size and body formation.

Cape Buffalos

Part of Africa's Big Five family, Cape Buffalos can be easily spotted on a Namibia Safari Tour . These large animals weigh up to nearly a ton and consider one the strongest animals of the Big Five.

These large animals can be fairly spotted in Etosha National Park . And it has a 61% sighting percentage.

Spotted Hyenas

Spotted Hyenas play an important role in the Namibia Ecosystem. They can be easily found around the water holes. With a 16% sighting rate, this animal can be commonly spotted in Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, the Caprivi Strip, Kavango and Buhsmanland Regions.

The characteristically stunning coats of black and white stripes are what make Zebras the most elegant animals in Africa. With a 67% sighting percentage, Zebras are all over Namibia, but the majority of them can be spotted in Etosha National Park .

Quick Fact: Etosha National Parks is home to the rare Hartmans Mountain Zebra

With over 68% sightings, Giraffes are the most fascinating animals in Namibia Wildlife . This tallest animal can be easily spotted in Etosha National Park , Damaraland and Kaokoland.

Quick Fact: Giraffes are known for having a sharp sense of hearing and smell, and this sense acts defence system against predators.

Wildebeest are Namibia’s indigenous species. Most of the wildebeest roam around waterholes and savannah woodland. In Namibia, Etosha National Park is the prime spot to find wildebeest.

Wildlife Safari In Namibia is home to more than 1300 animals, mostly found around the Kavango and Caprivi regions, which are located in the far northeast of this country.

Kunene river is also home to a large to a small population of Hippos. And the best part is you have an 81% chance of seeing them during your Namibia Safaris Tours .

Lions are highly dispersed across all regions in Namibia. Alone Etosha National Park , is home to more than 300 to 400 lions. And the western part of Namibia has some 100 desert-adapted lions.

Namibia is knowns for offering some of the best wildlife sightings in the entire African continent. The Country’s 12 National Parks and 6 protected areas offer an unparallel game-viewing experience. Out of all, here are some of the best national parks that will let you explore the true wonders of Namibia Wildlife .

Etosha National Park

For a truly spectacular game-viewing experience, there can be no better safari destination than Etosha National Park. Although it is not the biggest national park in Namibia, still it supports a diverse habitat of wild animals.

If you’re looking for endangered rhinos species, and rare antelope species, Etosha National Park is the right place.

Some other animals such as leopards, cheetahs, large herds of springbok, zebra, wildebeest, and giraffes are also part of this large diversity.

Best time to visit: The dry winter months of May to October, where you can find a large herd of animals congregating around the water holes.

Waterberg Plateau Park

With a distance of 68 km east of Otjiwarongo, the Waterberg Plateau National Park is located in central Namibia. As the name goes the main feature of this national park is its Waterberg Plateau. This park was declared a nature reserve in 1972.

This national park is home to several endangered species like black rhinos. And this ecologically diverse habitat has over 200 bird species.

Mamili National Park

May not be popular like other national parks, but the Mamili National Park is similar to the Okavango Delta . With a staggering number of 430 bird species, this will make you an avid bird-watcher.

Apart from bird-watching this national park has a large population of hippos, crocodiles, sitatunga and puku.

Namib- Naukluft National Park

Being the largest National Park, the Namib- Naukfluff National Park, is the most dynamic national park in Namibia. This National park is one of the least visited National Parks In Namibia . Which makes it the perfect destination for an exclusive safari experience.

The best highlight of this national park is Sossusvlei, the 325 m high monumental dunes. Formed by strong multi-directional wind, these dunes are sought-after topics for photographers and artists.

Apart from all its scenic beauty this national park boasts unique wildlife species like Hartmann’s Mountain zebra, kudu, gemsbok, klipspringer, duiker, steenbok, leopard, baboon, blue-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, African wild cat and many others.

Skeleton Coast National Park

The Skeleton Coast National Park is known for its unreal coastal landscapes and unique wildlife. The geography of this park is what makes it more surreal.

On the southern part of this national park Gravel plains are found, whereas the higher dunes are located in the northern part. And the northern part of this national park is known for having a large population of seals.

Talking about the wildlife some of the popular species like lions, giraffes, elephants, hyenas, black rhinoceros, and springboks can be found in this area.

Do you know: Local people often describe this place as “The Land God Made in Anger.”

Mangetti National Park

Compared to other national parks, this Magentti National Park is small, but still, it offers great wildlife viewing. Originally this park was dedicated to breeding rare and endangered species, but slowly it transformed into a national park.

This national park is home to a vast array of animals which includes, sable antelope, African wild dogs, hyenas and blue wildebeest.

Khaudum National Park

For visitors who are looking for a tranquil and peaceful trip, Khaudum National Park is the best safari destination in Zambia. This park is settled in the North-East of Namibia, and filled with untamed wildlife.

This national park is unfenced which allows animals to follow their migratory routes. On a game drive in this national park, you can spot some classic African animals like elephants, lions leopards and more.

Mudumu National Park

Mudumu National Park offers you the finest wildlife that you can explore on a Namibia Wildlife . The main attraction of this national park is large predators like lions and leopards.

Apart from pristine wildlife, this park has 430 bird species making this place a perfect hub for bird watchers. In recent years, giraffes and antelope species have been reintroduced into this national park.

Dorob National Park

Dorob National Park is a protected area in the Erongo Region of Namibia, located along the country's scenic Skeleton Coast. The park encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including sand dunes, gravel plains, and rocky coastline, that are home to a variety of wildlife, such as desert-adapted elephants, giraffes, and lions.

Visitors to Dorob can enjoy a range of activities, such as wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and hiking, and can also learn about the park's conservation efforts and the unique cultural heritage of the local communities.

The Gemsbok is the iconic symbol of Namibia, and it appears in the country’s coat of arms.  Gemsbok is generally desert-adapted animals and they are extremely tolerant to the arid condition of this country. ‘

It is the courage, elegance and pride of Gemsbok, which made it the National animal.

It is believed that currently, over 373,000 Gemsbok live in Namibia. You can easily spot them during Namibia Safaris , roaming alongside the roads.

Along with the commonly seen animals like Zebras and Giraffes, Namibia Wildlife is composed of some endangered animals. Below is a list of endangered animals that can be spotted in Namibia Wildlife Safari Tours .

• Black Rhinoceros
• African Wild Dog (Also known as the painted dog)
• Cape Mountain Zebra
• Damara Dik-Dik
• Spotted Hyaena

Namibia is home to a diverse range of bird species, with over 650 species recorded in the country. Here are some of the notable bird species found on Namibia Safari s -

The Best Time To See Namibia Wildlife depends on a variety of factors, including weather, animal behavior, and park accessibility. Generally, the dry season from May to October is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. This is also a good time to see predators like lions and cheetahs, as they are more active during the cooler temperatures of the day.

However, the rainy season from November to April can also be a good time for wildlife viewing, as it is the breeding season for many species, and many animals give birth during this time. Additionally, the landscape is transformed into lush greenery, providing a unique and beautiful backdrop for wildlife sightings.

It is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can vary from year to year, so it is important to do research and check weather forecasts before planning a trip. Overall, the Best Time To Visit Namibia is during the dry season, but the rainy season can also offer a unique and rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Namibia is one of the most successful countries in Africa when it comes to wildlife conservation. The Namibian government has implemented several policies and programs to protect its wildlife and its habitats. Here are some of the ways Namibia is conserving its wildlife:

Communal Conservancies

Namibia has established communal conservancies, which are community-based organizations that manage wildlife and natural resources in their areas. These conservancies help local communities to benefit economically from wildlife conservation through tourism and hunting.

Wildlife Management Areas

Namibia has established Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) which are large areas of land set aside for wildlife conservation and sustainable use. WMAs are managed by local communities and generate income from tourism and hunting.

Endangered Species Management

Namibia has established programs to protect endangered species such as black rhinoceros, cheetah, and African wild dogs. These programs include monitoring and tracking of the animals, as well as education and awareness campaigns to educate people about wildlife conservation.

Wildlife Research and Monitoring

Namibia conducts extensive research and monitoring of its wildlife populations to track their numbers and health. This information is used to inform conservation policies and management decisions.

Sustainable Tourism

 Namibia has developed sustainable tourism practices that support wildlife conservation while also providing economic benefits to local communities. This includes responsible tourism practices such as eco-tourism and community-based tourism.

Overall, Namibia's wildlife conservation efforts have been successful in protecting and conserving its wildlife populations, while also providing economic benefits to local communities.

Namibia’s unique landscapes and diverse wildlife make it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some interesting facts on Namibia Wildlife Safari .

• Namibia is home to the largest population of free-roaming cheetahs in the world, with an estimated 3,500 individuals.
• The Namib Desert, which stretches along the entire coastline of Namibia, is home to desert-adapted elephants, lions, and giraffes.
• The Black Rhino, which is considered critically endangered, is found in Namibia's Etosha National Park and Damaraland.
• The Quiver Tree, also known as Aloe dichotoma, is a succulent tree that is native to Namibia. Its bark was used by indigenous people to make quivers for arrows, hence the name.
• Namibia is home to the largest population of free-roaming black rhinos in the world.
• The Welwitschia Mirabilis, which is found only in the Namib Desert, is a plant species that can live for over 1,500 years.
• The Namib Desert is home to the world's largest underground lake, the Dragon's Breath Cave.
• The Namibian government has established several communal conservancies, which are community-based organizations that manage wildlife and natural resources in their areas.
• The Namibian desert beetle, also known as the fog-basking beetle, can collect moisture from the air by condensing water droplets on its bumpy back.
• Namibia is one of the few countries in Africa where populations of free-roaming lions and elephants are growing, due to successful conservation efforts.

Impact Of Namibia On Wildlife

Namibia’s wildlife is a significant contributor to its economy, particularly through tourism. The country's conservation efforts have helped to create a thriving wildlife population, which has attracted a large number of tourists to visit Namibia's parks and reserves.

• According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the travel and tourism industry directly contributed 7.7% to Namibia's GDP in 2019 and is projected to rise to 8.1% in 2029. In addition, the industry supported 94,000 jobs in Namibia in 2019, which is expected to increase to 117,000 jobs in 2029.
• Wildlife-based tourism is a significant contributor to this industry, with visitors from all over the world coming to see Namibia's iconic wildlife, such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, in their natural habitats.
• In addition to traditional safari experiences, there are also opportunities for adventure tourism, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in Namibia's Wilderness.
• The Namibian government has also implemented community-based conservation programs that provide economic incentives for local communities to protect wildlife and their habitats.
• This has helped to reduce poaching and create sustainable livelihoods for local people, further contributing to Namibia's economy.

Overall, Namibia Wildlife is an important economic asset that generates income and employment opportunities, and also plays a vital role in the country's conservation efforts.

Start Namibia Wildlife Safari Today

If you are a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, consider booking a Namibia Safari to witness its rich and diverse wildlife. Namibia is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and desert-adapted species, making it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers.

By choosing responsible tour operators and following ethical guidelines, you can help support conservation efforts and ensure the protection of Namibia Wildlife for future generations. Start planning your Namibia Wildlife Safari today and discover the incredible natural beauty and wildlife that this country has to offer.

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Frequently asked questions, where you can spot the big five in namibia safaris.

Etosha National Parks, except Buffalo, all others Big Five can be seen in this National Park. The Big Five, is a term refers to most dangerous animals in African that were hard to hunt. The animals that were included in the Big Five are African Elephant, Black Rhino, Leopard, Lion and Buffalo.

What is the total numbers of species found in Namibia?

As of September 2021, there were approximately 44,000 known species in Namibia. However, this number is constantly changing as new species are discovered and described, so the current total may be slightly different. It is worth noting that there may also be many species in Namibia that have not yet been discovered or documented.

Which wildlife you can spot in Etosha National Park?

Lion, leopard, elephant, giraffe, wildebeest, cheetah and the endangered rhinos can be easily spotted in Etosha National Park . Along with this diverse wildlife species, you can spot the mountain and plains zebras in this national park.

Which animal species can be only found in Namibia?

Oryx, the National animal of Zambia can be only found in Namibia. This other name of this animal is Gemsbok. This animal can live up to numbers of days without water.

Can I spot lion on a Namibia Safari?

Absolutely, you can lion in Etosha National Park on a Namibia Safaris . This national park is home to more than 750 lions. Other than Etosha National Park , lions can be spotted in Caprivi, Kaokoland, Bushmanland and Khaudom Park. And, it is surprising that, Namibia is the only country in the world, where the lions have adapted to desert conditions.

What are the endangered wildlife species in Namibia?

Black Rhinoceros, African Wild Dog (Also known as the painted dog), Cheetah, African Elephant, Pangolin, Lion, Cape Mountain Zebra, Damara Dik-Dik, Spotted Hyaena, Wild Cat, these are some of the rarest wildlife that can be found in Namibia.

Which national park has the highest density of wildlife in Namibia?

Etosha National Park. This national park has the highest density of wildlife in Namibia. Located in the North- West part of Namibia, this national park supports and incredible bio-diversity of wildlife. Around 4283 numbers of species can be found in Etosha National Park.

What makes Namibia Wildlife unique?

Namibia Wildlife is unique due to several factors. Firstly, the country is home to several species that have adapted to the harsh desert environment, including the desert-adapted elephant and Hartmann's mountain zebra. Secondly, Namibia has one of the largest populations of predators in Africa, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, the country boasts over 600 bird species, many of which are endemic to the region.

What is the best time of year to see wildlife in Namibia?

The Best Time To See Wildlife In Namibia is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The vegetation is also less dense, making it easier to see animals from a distance.

Is it safe to go on a wildlife safari in Namibia?

Namibia is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, including those going on wildlife safaris. However, it is important to follow safety guidelines and listen to the instructions of your guide to minimize any potential risks. It is also recommended to take out comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

Can I see desert-adapted wildlife in Namibia?

Yes, Namibia is known for its unique desert-adapted wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants and lions, which can be found in areas like Damaraland

Where can I see elephants in Namibia?

Elephants can be found in several national parks in Namibia, including Etosha National Park , Bwabwata National Park, and Khaudum National Park.

Elephants can be found in several national parks in Namibia, including Etosha National Park, Bwabwata National Park, and Khaudum National Park.

What is the best time of day for wildlife viewing in Namibia?

Early morning and late afternoon are usually the best times for wildlife viewing in Namibia, as many animals are most active during these times.

Are there any bird species unique to Namibia?

Yes, Namibia is home to several unique and endemic bird species, including the Rüppell's korhaan, Herero chat, and Dune lark.

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Discovering Namibia’s Unique Wildlife: Animals You’re Likely to See in this African Nation

Author: Antoinette Booyse - 27 July 2023

Last Update: 16 February 2024

Part of the Namibia Safari Holidays & Namibia Travel & African Safari Collection

Namibia’s surreal landscapes make it a popular safari destination for locals and international travelers alike. Epic open spaces, sprawling deserts, a rugged coastline, and mild climate all add up to a place unlike any other on Earth.

An interesting array of wildlife call this place home, each having adapted to the harsh environment in their own unique way. Keep reading to discover which animals you’re most likely to see in this otherworldly location.

One of the most striking of all the antelope species, the oryx is tan in color and features distinctive stripes. Two tall horns are set atop its head.

With its unique appearance and successful adaptation to the country’s harsh conditions, it’s no wonder it’s Namibia’s national animal. You’ll be able to spot oryxes all over Namibia, even from the road while you’re traveling the country, but a special treat is seeing them on the dunes of Sossusvlei at sunrise.

Also known as the greater kudu, this is the second tallest antelope on the African continent. The kudu is easily recognizable thanks to its long spiral horns and manes of long hair.

Despite its large build, it’s an agile species that can easily jump fences and other obstacles. You’ll find this antelope throughout central and northern Namibia and they’re typically prevalent on commercial farmland and in game parks.

South Africa’s national animal, the springbok is widespread throughout Namibia. Perhaps best known for their graceful jumps (they can leap up to two meters into the air) these striking creatures are built for harsh environments like dry riverbeds and short-grass savannas.

This makes them perfectly suited to the arid landscapes of Namibia. Large herds can be found in the Namib Desert and central Namibia , especially on farmlands around Windhoek , in Etosha National Park, and Namib-Naukluft National Park.

The desert-dwelling elephants of Namibia are no different from the bush-dwelling elephants you’ll find in Africa but they do demonstrate different learned behaviors and physical traits that allow them to flourish in this harsh and arid environment.

Where most African elephants tend to leave a trail of destruction in their wake, desert-adapted elephants are far more gentle and don’t damage trees and bushes.

The elephants of Namibia have smaller bodies, longer legs, and larger feet which help them gain better traction in sandy terrain. They can also survive much longer without water. You’ll usually be able to find them in Namibia’s northern regions like Damaraland and the Skeleton Coast National Park.

Namibia plays host to two of the four species of zebra to be found in Africa – Hartmann’s zebra and Burchell’s zebra. Look out for feint brown lines alongside the black stripes to identify Burchell’s zebra. Namibia’s zebras are uniquely adapted to survive and flourish in the hot and dry environment.

You’ll find Burchell’s zebra throughout the country, while Hartmann’s zebra sticks to the rocky terrain of western Etosha National Park .

Cape Buffalo

One of the Big Five, the Cape buffalo is one to tick off your list of famous wildlife. This ox-like and heavy set animal has thick legs and hooves that are larger in the front.

With its massive horns, this sociable creature is remarkable to behold, if a bit intimidating. Namibia’s population of Cape buffalo is much smaller than it once was, making these African bovines harder to spot. Most sightings are concentrated in the Caprivi Strip .

Often referred to as the Namib Desert Horse, the renowned wild horses of Namibia have been traversing the arid plains for decades. Having successfully adapted to the harsh ecosystem, they’re one of the most sought-after animals to spot on a Namib Desert safari .

They’re the only horses of their kind in Africa and you’ll find them around the Garub waterhole in Namib-Naukluft National Park .

While most African lions are found among acacia trees and rolling savanna, Namibia’s lions can be seen traversing mountainous sand dunes and feasting on seals along beaches. Namibia is the only place in the world where lions have adapted to thrive in desert conditions.

They tend to have smaller prides and larger home ranges than their bush-adapted counterparts. Namibia’s largest population of lions can be found in Etosha National Park , while smaller populations reside in the Caprivi, Bushmanland, Kaokoland, and Skeleton Coast Park.

Cape Fur Seal

Spend any amount of time on Namibia’s coast and you’re pretty much guaranteed to see the Cape fur seal. Known for their excellent swimming and hunting skills, they can close their nostrils and have eyes that can see both forward and to the sides.

One thing that makes them different from true seals is their external ears. Endemic to the coastline of Southern Africa, Cape fur seals can be found along Namibia’s seaside in places like Swakopmund and Skeleton Coast National Park .

Spotted Hyena

Spotted hyenas are referred to as the ‘laughing hyena’ thanks to their fast, loud, and high-pitched whoop calls. The other two subspecies, the brown hyena and striped hyena, make a grunt or chattering sound respectively.

You’ll find spotted hyenas in Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, the Caprivi Strip, Kavango, and Bushmanland regions. Smaller populations reside in the Namib Desert and within the Skeleton Coast National Park.

Giraffes are the tallest of all animals and one of Africa’s most popular game sightings. This large, gentle creature survives in the desert by being able to shut its nostrils to keep out the desert’s dust and sand.

Giraffes here can go without drinking water for several weeks. You’ll find the giraffes of Namibia in the east, south, and west of Etosha National Park, as well as on private reserves in Damaraland and Kaokoland.

The aardvark is a strange-looking creature with a long tubular snout.

This rare and fascinating animal is a sought-after sighting on a safari in Namibia. It can be found on the Skeleton Coast, in the Sossusvlei dunes , Kaokoland, and Damaraland.

Aardwolves resemble an unusual type of hyena. They tend to be small, weak, and cone-shaped. Because it can’t really protect itself from predators, the aardwolf lives in underground burrows and is mostly nocturnal.

Aardwolves are common sightings in the majority of Namibia’s savanna landscape, except for the coastal Namib Desert.

Bat-Eared Fox

This animal’s most notable characteristic are its large ears that give it an almost bat-like appearance. Smaller than jackals, bat-eared foxes are from the same family.

They are monogamous mammals found in groups consisting of just a mated pair and their pups. Bat-eared foxes can be found in nearly every region of Namibia and are known to follow the rains in their search for abundant insect activity.

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These wild birds are naturally found all over Africa but are especially well-adapted to survive in the dry and harsh conditions of Namibia since they can go for long periods without water.

They’re giant flightless birds and with their long legs they can reach speeds of up to 45 mph. Ostriches can usually be found in the northern parts of the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, the Kalahari Desert , and the Caprivi Strip.

Meerkats are loveable, cute, and highly social creatures. Their name translates to ‘ant cat’ and they feast on ants every chance they get, as well as foraging in dry riverbeds, sand, and crevices.

They’re hardy creatures that can eat scorpions and even survive snake bites. You’ll find them in eastern Namibia, Damaraland, and the Namib Desert.

Blue Wildebeest

Despite being most famous for their annual migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, Blue Wildebeest are actually common in many parts of Africa.

These large animals might seem quite intimidating, but they actually scare quite easily and prefer to stick to the herd. In Namibia, they’re most commonly found in Etosha National Park.

The most elusive animal of the Big Five, leopards are a thrill to spot given their rarity. Leopards are mainly nocturnal creatures, although you might be able to spot them during the day lazing in the sun on rocky ridges or on tree branches.

Leopards can usually be found throughout Namibia, and several lodges offer conservation projects including Okonjima Bush Camp and Okonjima Plains.

Cheetahs are one of the most endangered species on the planet, making seeing one in its natural environment a special thrill. The fastest land mammal, cheetahs can reach speeds of up to 65 mph and make their homes in open grasslands, savanna woodlands, and on the fringes of the desert.

They’re particularly suited to Namibia’s harsh climate because they can survive on moisture from their prey. Namibia plays host to a large number of the world’s remaining populations and you’ll be able to spot them in Etosha National Park.

African Wild Dog

One of the most endangered mammal species in Africa, African wild dogs are recognizable by their large rounded ears, long legs, bushy white-tipped tails, and compelling patched coats.

They’re highly social creatures that live and hunt in large packs of up to 20 members. Although sightings of wild dogs are rare, your best bet of seeing them is in Bushmanland, the Caprivi Strip, and Okonjima Nature Reserve.

Once abundant throughout Africa, both black and white rhino are today on the brink of extinction. Thankfully there are numerous conservation initiatives and projects working hard to ensure these creatures are around for future generations to witness.

The two species are almost identical. The only difference is the shape of their lips – black rhinos are hook-lipped while white rhinos are square-lipped.

Black rhinos can be found in Kaokoland and Damaraland, while white rhinos can be found in Etosha National Park and the Waterberg Plateau Park. Spotting a rhino is a highlight of a safari in Namibia .

This medium-sized stocky antelope frequents marshy grassland and riverine areas. Thanks to habitat loss, pukus are now on Namibia’s endangered list.

They’re known to emit a loud whistling sound to communicate with each other when something is approaching their territory. You’ll most likely spot pukus in the Caprivi Strip or on the Namibian side of the Chobe River.

Honey Badger

Usually most active between dusk and dawn, the honey badger is one of the most difficult animals to spot on a Namibian safari. About the same size as the European badger, these animals are extremely ferocious when under attack and have no problem fighting off animals that are much larger than they are.

With long claws and thick, loose skin that protects them from stings and bites, they’re also known to emit a foul-smelling odor that discourages predators or enemies. Honey badgers can be found throughout Namibia, especially Etosha National Park. The only place you won’t find them is in the Namib Desert.

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Safari in Namibia

An expert guide to the best safaris in namibia.

Melanie van Zyl

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Researching travel guides, reviewing campsites and finding new ways to photograph its sublime scenery, I've been going on safari in Namibia for over a decade and have visited virtually every corner of this vast and little-known country.

Namibia shares borders with some of Southern Africa’s safari heavyweights: South Africa , Botswana and Zambia . But the Namibia safari experience has little in common with its neighbours. Yes, there are all the “big five” and other blockbuster megafauna, but all in much lower densities. There are few open savannahs and vast river deltas. Here, the desert reigns supreme. Namibia is Sub Saharan Africa’s driest country, where the elephants have evolved into their own subspecies to adapt to the scarcity of water. Going on safari in Namibia is more about marvelling at the staggering desert scenery and the weird micro-scale wildlife that can withstand this extreme environment.

You can go on safari in South Africa or Kenya to chase the big five. You go on safari in Namibia to see something that is truly, often startlingly, different.

If there's one place that's truly about the journey, not the destination, it is Namibia. Read on for my expert guide to the best safaris in Namibia.

A lone oryx in the vastness of the Sossusvlei clay pans, Namibia

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Namib-Naukluft National Park

Hike landscapes straight from a surrealist painting.

Probably my favourite places in all Namibia are the pale clay pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Set in the sprawling Namib-Naukluft National Park, this is one of Earth's oldest and most captivating deserts.

The odd oryx, springbok antelope and ostrich dot the scrubland but don't expect any big five sightings here, this place is more about unshowy wildlife and its visually arresting landscapes. (For game sightings I’d recommend Namibrand or Etosha instead.) Here you'll find a surreal playground of towering dunes in ombre spice-coloured shades, from paprika to turmeric to cinnamon and hauntingly beautiful fossil valleys.

As you venture deeper into the park, you can get out of the vehicle and touch the sands. Come at dawn, and you'll feel the mist from the Atlantic Ocean settling on your arm as you climb the dunes, before it dries out in the warming morning sun.

There are no adventure activities like sand boarding on offer here, it's about climbing the sand dunes (in designated areas), ambling across the pans, and stopping for a picnic to soak up the scenery.

Etosha National Park

Namibia’s most famous safari park.

Its name means 'the empty place' but with Namibia's highest concentration of wildlife, Etosha is anything but empty of safari sightings – the only big five animal not found here is the Cape buffalo.

Etosha National Park is well-known for its waterholes, best visited during the dry season when wildlife flocks to these oases dotted throughout the park. In Etosha I have spotted lions chasing springbok, dozens of bird species (including many pairs of elegant blue cranes), imposing white-crusted elephants, oryx herds, giraffes, and much more. But the real safari treat is to sit still. Pack a picnic and spend some time at the waterhole to appreciate the astounding diversity and density of the game.

Bwabwata National Park

Namibia’s safari hidden gem.

Escape the mainstream safari itineraries at Bwabwata National Park. Often overlooked in favour of Namibia’s more famous safari parks, I like to think of this area as a more affordable Okavango Delta .

With lush landscapes and riverine forests, the wetlands of the Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip) in northernmost Namibia offer a striking comparison to the stark coastline and desert interior. It's part of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, covering an area of 444,000 square kilometres. Bwabwata National Park sits at the heart of this region and is home to hippos, crocodiles, roan, sable, impala and red lechwe, and lions and leopards. The Buffalo Core Area is notable for its buffalo herds in the east. The Kwando Core Area to the west is primarily known for its elephants and sometimes African wild dogs pass through.

ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park

Trek the iconic fish river canyon.

Namibia's Fish River Canyon is a staggering geological masterpiece in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, shared by Namibia and South Africa.

The main viewpoint and information centre are worth a visit for an epic sunset if it's on your route, but to truly escape the tourists, your best bet is to embark on the epic five-day trek along the canyon floor. Sights in this area include quiver trees and cute klipspringer antelopes. It's a straightforward trek as you can’t leave the canyon walls, but you’ll be totally self-sufficient and it’s not to be underestimated – I had a friend who had to be helicoptered out due to heat exhaustion and dehydration. An organised trek accompanied with a guide is recommended, if not essential.

See Namibia’s rare desert dwelling elephants

You might only see a few animals here, but tracking Damaraland's desert-dwelling wildlife is a highlight in this fascinating region sandwiched between Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast.

Desert-adapted elephants, rhinos, and lions roam rocky terrains, dry riverbeds, and gravel plains dotted with the weird, twisted welwitschia mirabilis plants.

Although it can be challenging to see the wildlife here, I find this scarcity makes each sighting all the more memorable. Spotting one elephant in the desert is somehow more special than seeing an entire herd in a lush reserve.

Desert-dwelling elephants are considered an endangered subspecies and occur in five rivers usually devoid of water: the Ugab, Huab, Uniab, Hoanib and Hoarisib. These elephants have larger feet to walk on sand and travel in smaller herds. They only need to drink once every few days, using their long trunks to dig for water in the dry river beds.

Also here is Twyfelfontein, home to one of Africa's most significant collections of rock art, with over 2,500 engravings dating back some 6,000 years.

Birding on the Atlantic Coast

Although more industrial, these coastal towns harbour great wildlife opportunities coupled with creature comforts (don’t miss oysters and cold Namibian beers from the seaside restaurants in Swakopmund).

The expansive tidal lagoon south of Walvis Bay is primarily a birding attraction, hosting thousands of flamingos, pelicans and cormorants. Boat tours along the coast also provide a front-row seat to colonies of seals, and sometimes dolphins cruise the bow waves.

Inland, you can walk the coastal dunes searching for desert critters, such as the comical palmato gecko with its transparent skin, beautiful colours, and sand-disguised sidewinding snakes.

Namibia’s safari highlights

Our expert's top picks, namibrand nature reserve, gondwana namib park.

Stargazing and walking safari in NamibRand

If you have the bucks, the NamibRand Nature Reserve is where I like to escape the masses that can crowd Sesriem at the entrance to Namib-Naukluft National Park. There are luxury lodges here, such as Kwessi Dunes or &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, which are well-regarded if pricey. I prefer the organised overnight walking safaris: light pollution is minimal here and the skies are among the darkest and clearest on earth. Immersed in the silence of the desert darkness, I experience a humbling connection to the cosmos.

Balloon ride over the Namib Desert

While you might be disappointed that the balloon doesn't actually cross over the Sossusvlei or Deadvlei claypans, there is freedom in being beholden to the desert winds. Dramatic views from a balloon basket offer an eerie sense of the vastness and solitude of the Namib Desert, evoking a deep appreciation for this untouched wilderness. We even spotted a brown hyena scuttling across the sands below during my flight. Be prepared for a rudely early wake-up call. It's best to stay close to the launch site at Kulala Desert Lodge, or the kitschy Le Mirage Desert Lodge and Spa.

Wake early for sunrise at Deadvlei

The Sesriem junction is the starting point for trips to the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei claypans. To experience sunrise (or sunset), beat the heat and get ahead of the crowds, spend the night at one of two lodges located within the park gates (Sossus Dune Lodge and the pricier, more private Kulala Desert Lodge). Alternatively camp at the very basic Sesriem Camp for the perk of an hour-early entry to the park. It's a 60-kilometre drive to the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei sites (many visitors stop at Dune 45 instead, but I recommend you forge on). Deadvlei is then a further one-kilometre hike from the car park (not everyone is fit enough for this trek, especially in peak sunshine) and is where you can climb the spine of the Big Daddy Dune.

Watch migrating elephants

Bwabwata National Park has limited accessibility and few self-drive routes, but the wildlife is no less dramatic than other popular parks.

My favourite area is Horseshoe Bend in the Mayuni Conservancy zone, with its abundant plains animals. Elephants congregate here in their hundreds on their migration route between May and September, and it's where I snapped my first magazine cover shot. Nambwa Campsite and Nambwa Lodge (a treetop stay with high walkways for elephants to wander freely below) are the nearest accommodations.

The park can get busy in peak seasons, impacting the sense of wilderness. Also, consider exploring the less-visited Nkasa Rupara National Park nearby.

Horse ride (or ebike) past fairy circles at Wolwedans

Wolwedans is one of the most established lodge collections in the country, with enviable locations dotted across the NamibRand Nature Reserve. I loved how committed this operation is to treading lightly, and I had tremendous fun gliding along, up and down, over the dunes of the Namib Desert by horseback and bike.

Whether a flat-out gallop or a sedate trek, all levels of riders are welcome to wind between the “fairy circles”, mysterious barren patches amid the desert flora that have long perplexed scientists. Theories range from plant self-organisation to toxins from euphorbia bushes. Still, my favourite story is the Himba explanation that they are the footprints of Mukuru, their supreme being.

Spy on elephants at the waterhole

Etosha's waterholes provide an excellent David Attenborough-worthy opportunity to witness wild animals up close. Watch elephants slake their thirst under the scorching sun or detect the sounds of rustling leaves and animal calls as giraffes, zebra and impala tentatively gather during the evening.

The Okakuejo's floodlit waterhole is a great spot to glimpse the critically endangered black rhino.

I recommend you book accommodation in advance during peak season, weekends, and festive December. Alternatively, visit during the wet season when the landscape is greener, but water availability causes animals to disperse.

Etosha is surrounded by other private game reserves and luxurious places to stay, including Anderssons at Ongava (I have my heart set on visiting the Ongava Discovery Centre next) and Onguma Camp Kala.

Track the critically endangered black rhino

Head out on a game drive or an immersive (though sometimes hot and long) walking safari to track the world's last remaining free-roaming population of the critically endangered black rhino.

I always find Rhino tracking a heart-pounding adventure. A dance of anticipation and caution as you trek the rugged landscape. Palmwag Concession is the best area, and top sightings generally occur between April and November, but stay at least two days to up your chances of seeing the rare animals.

Well established, the Desert Rhino Camp is high-end, but Damaraland Camp, Camel Top Community Campsite, Palmwag Lodge and Sesfontein Guesthouse are affordable alternatives.

Learn about the living desert

So many people visit the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei but don't notice the phenomenal creatures that eke out an existence in this extraordinary landscape. Unlike other deserts, critical ocean mists feed the Namib sands and sustain fog-sipping beetles, nude-coated lizards and handsome snakes that bury themselves in the sand. They’re tricky to find by yourself, so get a guide to share their tips and tricks for seeking out the small stuff.

Sea kayak with seals

Enjoy a unique desert sea safari by kayaking amidst playful marine companions. Departing in the morning when the waters are calm, this three-hour tour has you paddling towards the Walvis Bay Cape fur seal colony, where it's common for them to swim close and sometimes even hop onto the ends of the kayaks! I also spotted dolphins, pelicans, flamingos, and Damara terns on the Pelican Point sandbar. Be sure to dress warmly. If kayaking isn't your thing, you can also opt for sedate boat tours.

Retreat to the Desert Whisper pod

Perched on the rim of a gravel-strewn hill, a 4X4 abandoned me at a remote villa in Gondwana Namib Park. This secluded stay feels like a Mad Max spaceship landed in the middle of nowhere. Designed for couples as a one-of-a-kind honeymoon hideaway, the open-plan apartment has a pool, plush reading lounge, and cocktail nook. The view – and everything besides – is yours alone, with nobody else for miles around. There are few places where you are left entirely to your own devices. Enjoy the breathtaking perspective and soak up the silence.

Namibia safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked, when to go on safari in namibia.

Namibia has diverse landscapes that shine at different times of the year. Typically, the best time for wildlife viewing is the dry season (May to October), while the wet season (November to April) transforms the desert into a blooming wonderland ideal for photographers and birdwatchers.

You can of course book an organised tour of Namibia with any number of safari operators. The standard itineraries typically include Etosha, the Sossusvlei claypans, Swakopmund and the Fish River Canyon. There are a few advantages of booking an organised tour, not least convenience and the extra reassurance of help and support while you navigate an unfamiliar country.

That said I’d encourage more independently-minded visitors to consider a self-drive trip. This way you can get well off the standardised itineraries and spend as long as you like in some of Namibia’s hidden gems mentioned in this guide. You can rent a 4X4 in Windhoek or Walvis Bay, and book your own accommodation directly. Hotels and lodges generally offer their own guided excursions and tours (for an additional fee.) But don't rush: fight the urge to cram too many sights into a short trip, or your trip will be exhausting. And be prepared for the challenge of driving. The distances between the various safari areas and national parks are huge, but the roads are often decent gravel. Plan a buffer day into your itinerary in case something goes wrong with the vehicle and ensure you have sufficient fuel. Some routes are 300 to 400 kilometres without gas stations. In my experience, most rental companies have great insight, so ask away! They will know the best routes and ask if they offer satellite phone rental or emergency assistance.

About the author

Melanie is a travel photojournalist and guidebook author based in Johannesburg. A qualified field guide, scuba diver and budding birdwatcher, she is an expert contributor on Southern Africa and has written for Lonely Planet, Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveller and Fodor's, and photographed some of the continent's beloved travel lodges.

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10 Tips on Discovering Namibia’s Wildlife: How to See the Animals?

The animals in Namibia aren’t just something you stare at from your car at the safari parks. Hold on to your safari hat because Namibia is about to shatter your preconceptions of what wildlife in Africa is all about. 

You’re just as likely to see a giraffe or hippo crossing the road in Namibia as you are running into a squirrel or pigeon in your hometown. Animals roam so wild and free in Namibia that the most important self-driving tip is related to them!  

It’s not just typical Namibia safari animals in nature reserves, you will have random wildlife encounters on the road, in the distance, and even right by your hotel .  

In Namibia, you'll find more than just the usual animal suspects—we're talking about the cool, the quirky, and the downright dangerous .  

1. Does Namibia have wildlife?

Where is everybody?  

Yes! And thank the universe for the animals, because otherwise we'd just be a bunch of tourists wandering around in the middle of nowhere , staring at sand dunes and wondering what the heck we're doing here. More than half of Namibia’s best tourist attractions exist solely because of the wildlife in this country.  

Lions, hyenas, hippos, zebras, vultures, snakes, seals, sharks… they’re all a huge part of what makes Namibia worth visiting. Some animals in Namibia I’m sure you’ve never even heard of, plus some that you can’t see in any other country.  

So, yeah, if you took the wildlife away, Namibia would just be a glorified sandbox . The desert might be beautiful for a while, but after a few hours of non-stop sand, you'll be praying for a herd of wildebeest to come stampeding by to break up the monotony.  

2. Where to see wildlife in Namibia

Etosha National Park will make you feel like you're in the Lion King  

Everywhere. No doubt you’ll see wildlife out in the wild when you’re driving from place to place, on a desert walk, or maybe even out the window of your carefully chosen accommodation .  

But I’m sure you want to be more intentional about spotting wildlife in Namibia, not just leaving it up to chance.  

Namibia wildlife safaris are the number 1 spot to see the big mammals you’re probably hoping for the most. Etosha National Park Safari is the top safari in the country, and you’ll be happy to learn that 4 of the Big 5 live there. Here are my 9 tips on planning your Etosha NP visit . Other options include Namib-Naufluft National Park and Nkasa Lupala National Park .  

You’ll certainly even see big mammals in Namibia in places where the main attraction is something else—there are leopards, zebras and kudus in Fish River Canyon, and you’re bound to get that shot of an oryx or ostrich against the sand dunes of Sossusvlei.

A flock of seals in Cape Cross  

In Namibia’s adventure capital, Swakopmund , you’ll get child, thrills, and snakes and lizards out in the wild on the epic Tommy’s Living Desert Tour (and we even saw some on our quad bike ride!). Hundreds of Cape fur seals (and their stench) await you at nearby Cape Cross.   

Hippos need a lot more water than some other species, so a water hole here and there isn’t going to cut it for them. To see the big (and dangerous) cuties, you’ll need to head out to the Caprivi Strip .  

If you’re into snakes and other critters, like yours truly, and you aren’t satisfied with the thought of randomly running into one, check out Swakopmund’s Snake Park .  

Some animals need extra protection from the ultimate predator—the human. Places like Cheetah Conservation Fund allow you to help with conservation efforts . They let tourists stay in several accommodation options, like the coveted Babson House , where you can see cheetahs from your terrace!  

I have lots more information about all of these places in Namibia in a separate article . You can read about everything Swakopmund-related here .  

3. Are the Big Five in Namibia?

The big 5!  

The big 5 refers to the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African Cape buffalo—and Namibia is home to all of them .  

But hold up... If a giraffe or hippo is bigger than these so-called 'Big Five,' then what the heck does 'Big Five' even mean ? Fun fact: The term originally referred to the animals that were the most difficult to hunt. No idea why the term stuck even now that hunting is considered abominable and utterly redneck, but the prestigious title now describes the top five most sought-after animals for wildlife viewing in Africa. 

You’ll have to do a bit of hunting around (with your eyes, of course!) to spot all the Big Five in Namibia, since they like to play hard to get. Even in the country’s premier safari destination, Etosha National Park , you won’t spot all five.  

Luckily, you don’t need to go far to complete your list: Just head over to the nearby Waterberg Plateau or Caprivi Strip , and voila— there's your buffalo!   

4. Which Namibia mammals can I spot?

Giraffes in the distance are a much better experience than a warthog up close... too close  

It is impossible to mention all of Namibia’s mammals here, because it would be such a ginormous list . Etosha National Park alone harbors 114 mammal species!  

Sometimes, all these mammals in Namibia can cause not only jaws to drop, but parts of your car as well! We got way too up close and personal with a warthog in a car accident where the score ended up being Pig 0 – Toyota Hilux 0 – Jan 1. Why? Because I took my own advice and got good insurance coverage (and so should you! Read all of my Namibia my driving tips ).

In Etosha National Park, elephants and other animals always have the right of way  

So, I’ll just list some cool Namibia mammals until the paragraph gets too long, but it won’t be exhaustive: elephants, lions, hippos, giraffes, leopards, zebras , cheetahs, rhinos, wild dogs, wildebeest, ostriches, seals, baboons, wild dogs, warthogs, meerkats, mongoose, civets, foxes, servals and antelope.  

There are also so many antelope species that most of their names sound like I just stung random letters together: kudu, dik-dik, duiker, tsessebe, sitatunga, grysbok, gemsbok and about 20 others.  

You haven’t been to Namibia until you have 500 photos of this guy:

The gemsbok aka South African oryx is Namibia’s national animal

5. Are snakes common in Namibia?

If you want to meet snakes in Namibia, not die and learn something about them at the same time, I recommend Tommy’s Living Desert Tour in Swakopmund  

I feel like you want me to say no to this one, but yes, there are over 80 types of snakes in Namibia. But don’t worry, “only” 11 can kill you!  

Adders, cobras, mambas—you name it, Namibia’s got it! And I love that , because you know how most people get giddy around puppies? That’s how I act when I see snakes.  

Namibia snakes aren’t picky when it comes to where you can find them —there are species that like the sand, some prefer bushy or forested areas (and suburban gardens), some literally hang out in trees (don’t go pulling on vines!), and some think that human houses are a great place to catch rodents.  

So to answer your question: There is no place in Namibia where you can’t find snakes. Luckily, they rarely target humans just for fun and only attack when they feel threatened . The first choice of Namibia snakes is always to flee, not to see if they can take you on despite your size.

We met this sand viper during our ATV trip in the desert  

Even my personal favorite serpent , the Puff Adder, who slithers around in a bad mood most of its life, would rather leave while mumbling expletives to itself than take a bite of you. Still, since it is highly venomous and easy to aggravate, you don’t want to see its puffed-up body in the wild.  

A little less optimistically, some of Africa’s deadliest snakes also live in Namibia. The Boomslang? Check. The Carpet Viper? Yep. The surprisingly not black Black Mamba? Yes, Black Mambas, too.  

Be ready to witness some type of snake while in Namibia, it’s hard not to. We saw some wiggling around in the sand on our quad biking adventure, for example. But no dangerous encounters.

Hello, my lovelies (at Snake Park in Swakopmund )  

I was able to cuddle up real close to a Puff Adder and a bunch of others I wouldn’t want to stumble upon in the wild in Swakopmund’s Snake Park . It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for me, it was an experience I won’t forget!  

6. Are there big cats in Namibia?

Is a lion big enough for you?  

If you’re not from Africa, you’ll be gobsmacked by many a creature you meet on your Namibia trip . Personally, I was most impressed by the ostriches, but if you're looking for something with a little more bite, Namibia's big cats are sure to make your jaw drop.  

First there’s the lion , the biggest and laziest of them all. Most lions in Namibia can be found napping in Etosha National Park . Free-roaming lions can be found in the Caprivi Strip and along the Skeleton Coast, where they’ve learned to enjoy a nice snack in the form of fur seals, flamingos and cormorants. Don’t let their docile demeaner fool you—they may not be the best hunters, but they're still kings of the desert—and you suck at running in the sand.  

But what about tigers?! There are no tigers in Africa. You’ll need to go to Asia for these big fellas. India has the most responsible wildlife reserves where you can see tigers in the wild.

The leopard is on the left, the cheetah is on the right. You're welcome!  

The leopard is notoriously difficult to spot, because it likes to hang out alone and is mostly nocturnal. You’ll get chills down your spine if you manage to catch a glimpse of one, not just because they are some of the most fashionable big cats in the world. Leopards are also the ultimate hunters— stalking and pouncing is their thing. If you happen to be staying at a luxury campsite in the more remote areas of Namibia and you hear someone with a rasping cough approaching, DON’T exit your tent to offer cough medicine.  

Namibia can also flex about having the largest remaining cheetah population in the world, and not just at the Cheetah parks in Namibia. Everyone knows that cheetahs are fast—running in short bursts of 105 km/h (65 mph) when capturing their prey. But did you know that it can survive without water ? All they need is the moisture from their prey and they’re good.  

7. Tell me about the cheetah parks in Namibia

These cats are fast and super cool, but unfortunately there are fewer and fewer of them due to poaching. I hate humans.  

There are several cheetah parks in Namibia, namely the Cheetah Conservation Fund overlooking the Waterberg Plateau. They do excellent work for the protection and education about the spotty animals.  

The Cheetah Conservation isn’t just a cheetah park, you’ll also run into other species that live on the Waterberg Plateau . You’ll certainly want to visit the Research and Education Centre to learn about what the conservation fund does. Did you know they provide livestock with security in order to protect cheetahs from getting shot? Those big dogs would scare even me away from your goats!

You can even see cheetahs right from the veranda of the Babson House!  

You can literally watch cheetahs from your veranda at the Babson House (part of the Cheetah Conservation Fund). The Cheetah Fund actually introduces this place as “for those who wish to experience the world of CCF at the next level ”, so you know you need to go. 

Always make sure that you are supporting renowned conservation sanctuaries and not shady businesses when planning a visit to any kind of sanctuary. Some aren’t as altruistic as others. 

8. What are the most dangerous animals in Namibia?

Hippos aren’t strictly vegetarian and have been known to snack on meat, so don’t get in their way!  

There is one mighty creature that often flies under the radar —the mosquito. In Namibia, they carry diseases like malaria and dengue fever, which both suck hard if contracted and even harder if left untreated.  

Do your research on malaria beforehand, but you’ll always need to stock up on long sleeves and mosquito repellent, since you can get dengue fever throughout the country and there is no vaccine for it.  

Now hold up—can we take a moment to stop and think about how some of the deadliest animals in Namibia don’t even eat meat? Honestly, it's like watching a fierce lioness choose a kale salad over a fresh kill.

You don't want to mess with this big guy  

Hippos need over 35 kg (80 lbs) of grass each day to sustain themselves and they waddle around looking like a cute, hairless stuffed animal. But they kill 500 humans each year (in Africa). Compare that to the less than 100 deaths caused by lions, and you know who not to mess with. Hippos run faster than you , are very territorial, and simply don’t like to be messed with.  

Similarly, elephants, rhinos, and African buffalos can turn into aggressive vegetarians if they feel threatened. Then they are quick to show you they’ve had enough of your nonsense and are ready to take you down faster than you can say ‘salad fork’!  

Of the meat-eaters, you might be interested to know that there are 10 shark species—including the great white!—that live in the waters off Namibia’s shores. As scary as that sounds, shark attacks are rare and mostly happen when you look too much like a seal.  

Tip: Have you read about my South African cage diving experience ? I loved and hated it all at the same time.  

9. What is the national animal of Namibia?

The oryx is also on Namibia’s coat of arms  

The oryx, or as the locals call it, the gemsbok , is Namibia's national animal. It's a fancy antelope that's adapted to the harsh conditions of the Namib Desert—it barely needs any water to survive .  

With impressive horns that look like they could double as a coat rack, the oryx looks real cool when you see it on the horizon or against the orange sand dunes of Namibia.  

10. Can you recommend the top Namibia wildlife safari?

In Etosha National Park , It’s like National Geographic  but you’re part of the show!  

Even though there are 26 national parks and game reserves in Namibia, the most famous one—it’s a must-visit—is Etosha National Park Safari with over 100 mammals. These include the most sought-after safari animals like giraffes, elephants, zebras and lions. Sorry, no buffalos, but you can see those a little ways away (by Namibia standards, anyway) in the Waterberg Plateau or Caprivi Strip .  

You also won’t bump into hippos at Etosha NP, because there simply isn’t enough water in the area to keep them happy. The Caprivi Strip is your best bet to find hippos.  

Tip: I have a whole guide on how to visit Etosha National Park and see some of the most incredible Namibia safari animals without ever leaving your car! 

Remember you don’t need to go to a safari in order to see wildlife in Namibia—the animals roam free throughout the country. It’s not just the zebras and ostriches by the road and flamingos in the bay (like in Swakopmund ), you can literally stay at your guesthouse , watching cheetahs !  

Now that’s a massive value proposition from Namibia right there!

Ijaba Lodge at Buschfeld is the best accommodation outside of Etosha NP  safari  

We were incredibly happy with our stays at the Ijaba Lodge at Buschfeld near Etosha NP, but you will probably see a snake or two while there! Don't worry, they're more afraid of you than you are of them! 

At the oasis-like Burgsdorf Guest Farm , you can actually have your dinner while spotting wildlife, making it one of the best safari lodges in Namibia. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.  

And I’ve already mentioned cheetah-spotting from the comfort of your own terrace at Babson House (part of Cheetah Conservation Fund).   

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps keep this blog free, thank you!  

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The Namib Naukluft National Park, in particular the Sossusvlei area, is the epitome of Namibia. It’s that place with the famous tree skeletons. I don't really like the desert, but Namib Naukluft NP is a must-see!

I’ve put together 2 detailed day-to-day itineraries for you: one for 10 days, and one for 14 days, both awesome. You will spend hours on the road, so you might as well do it in the comfort of your own vehicle.

Finding a great hotel in Namibia is like trying to spot a leopard in the dark. Not easy, but not impossible either. I won’t lie—it was hard finding something at a reasonable price of USD 100–400 per night. 

Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about! 

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right? 

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.  

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• Maximum Group Size Is Just Seven Travelers An authentic encounter with nature is hard to achieve outside of a small group. While Namibia's paved road system encourages a more "bus-like" safari approach in many popular places, we limit our groups to just seven guests,  allowing us to access remote areas that mini buses can't get to.
• Chartered Flights Maximize Your Time on Safari We opt for light aircraft transfers to maximize your time with wildlife, rather than negotiating rough and dusty roads between destinations. And from the air, you'll gain a whole different perspective on Namibia’s stunning landscapes.
• Private Reserves Offer Seclusion & Exclusive Activities Private reserves are essential to an optimal Namibia safari. From the million-acre Palmwag Concession to the Ongava and Kulala wilderness reserves—private concessions adjacent to national parks—we view abundant wildlife away from crowds (since most visitors are traveling on paved and gravel roads inside the parks). When we do visit the national parks, we enter prime wildlife-viewing areas quickly and return to our private reserves for a much quieter experience. We also enjoy exclusive activities not permitted in the parks, such as safari walks and night drives. And from fly-in Desert Rhino Camp, we have the rare chance to track endangered desert rhinos alongside conservation experts and researchers.
• Exclusive Opportunities to Explore on Foot, Including Rhino Tracking Guided bush walks are available on private reserves—rare opportunities to stretch your legs while on safari. Track rhino on foot during our stay at exclusive Desert Rhino Camp, a remote outpost that gives you the best access in Namibia to view this endangered species. And consider an optional climb up the sand dunes at Sossusvlei for a perspective on the landscape that most safari-goers confined to vehicles miss.
• An Open "Window" Seat for Everyone We limit our capacity to just seven travelers per vehicle on wildlife drives, assuring unimpeded views, maximum comfort and the best photo opportunities. In the Sossusvlei region, we explore in spacious closed vehicles that provide protection from wind and sand, with eight cushioned seats plus ample room for your gear. In less-sandy regions, our private chartered safari vehicles have open sides (no glass to interfere with your view) and 10 cushioned passenger seats—one in front next to the driver, followed by three rows of three seats each...lots of extra room for all!
• Remote Accommodations in Harmony with the Landscape The isolated luxury camps we've chosen are truly exceptional. Each is seamlessly integrated into the natural environment in a way that allows you to be fully absorbed in the landscape. Each tent or chalet also has a private veranda for personal wildlife viewing opportunities. We are proud to include a stay at rarely visited Desert Rhino Camp, located within the distant wilderness of the Palmwag Concession where many of the world's last desert rhinos still roam free.
• Africa's Most Outstanding Safari Guides We provide the personalized service of Namibia’s top naturalist guides. We employ only the most highly trained and experienced Expedition Leaders, who accompany your group from start to finish. Rather than relying on less-qualified local camp guides at each stop, our Expedition Leaders are the best-trained safari guides in Africa, averaging 15 years' experience, with additional resources provided by WWF’s leading scientists. See Expedition Leader bios   with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Superior Namibia Safari With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, which clearly states that we will meet the lofty expectations we set in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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A Namaqua chameleon in threat display, Namib desert, Namibia, by Yathin S. Krishnappa .

Meet the “Little Five” Safari Animals of Namibia

The primary goal of many safari goers is to see the Big Five African game : leopards, African elephants, Cape buffalos, rhinos, and lions. As rewarding as it is to watch these animals in the wild, you’ll miss out if they’re the only things you look for. Sometimes, the best things come in small packages!

Did you know that Africa also has the Little Five ? These diminutive creatures—the elephant shrew, the leopard tortoise, the buffalo weaver, the ant lion, and the rhinoceros beetle—live in many parts of Africa and are fun to look for around your lodge or while on a hike.

But there’s another “Little Five”! The unique desert ecosystem of Namibia ‘s Skeleton Coast has so many tiny critters that locals developed their own checklist. Read on to find out more about five marvelous animals of the dunes!

The Namib web-footed gecko’s translucent skin helps it blend in with the sand. Photo by Simon’s Images .

Namib Web-Footed Gecko ( Pachydacylus rangei )

Let’s meet the first of Namibia’s Little Five: the Namib web-footed gecko, also called the Namib sand gecko or palmatogecko. This tiny lizard can reach up to five inches long from nose to tail tip.

The Namib web-footed gecko is well adapted to desert life. W ebbed feet help it scurry over sand without sinking. They also serve as spades when the gecko burrows. Translucent skin helps it blend in with the sand.

Namib web-footed geckos are most active at night. During the day, they hide in the sand to stay cool. Their large eyes help them hunt for insects in the dark.

Interestingly, these geckos have no eyelids! They keep their eyes clean by licking their eyeballs.

Peringuey’s adder, or the Namibian sidewinder, can see what’s going on while buried in the sand thanks to having its eyes on top of its head, rather than at the sides. Photo by Jay Iwasaki .

Peringuey’s adder (Bitis peringueyi)

Peringuey’s adder travels over the sand in sideways, curving motions — giving it the second name of “sidewinding adder.”

The Peringuey’s adder eats other small reptiles, particularly lizards . Although venomous, its bite is not fatal to humans. To hunt, it buries itself in the sand with only its eyes and the tip of its tail showing. The tail tip can attract prey, who sometimes confuse it for a wiggling insect.

Like the rest of Namibia’s Little Five, Peringuey’s adders are small. Most individuals are just eight to ten inches long!

Dancing white lady spiders live in burrows beneath the sand. Photo by Lworch .

Dancing White Lady Spider

Dancing white lady spider is a name given to two species in the Namib Desert: Leucorchestris arenicola and Carparachne aureoflava.

The two species look similar, but are different sizes and perform different “dances.” Leucorchestris arenicola , a larger spider, taps its two front legs on the sand to communicate with other spiders. Carparachne aureoflava, which is only two centimeters long, cartwheels down sand dunes to escape enemies, such as parasitic wasps. Because of this, it is also known as the cartwheeling spider or wheel spider!

Both spiders live in burrows under the sand that they line with spider silk. The burrows can reach more than a foot deep.

Namaqua chameleons change colors to communicate and depending on temperature. Photo by Chantelle Bosch .

Namaqua chameleon (Chamaeleo namaquensis)

The color-shifting Namaqua chameleon is one of the larger chameleons in southern Africa, reaching up to ten inches in length. It’s also especially suited to desert life. Water is scarce in the Namib desert, so this chameleon “drinks” by absorbing water droplets that condense on its skin when temperatures drop.

With a pale belly to deflect heat from the scorching sand, the Namaqua chameleon can take on shades of gray, brown, deep red, yellow, and greenish-black, depending on its mood, lighting, and the surrounding temperature.

A shovel snouted lizard in Dorob National Park, Namibia, makes a threat display .

Shovel snouted lizard (Melores anchietae)

Shovel-snouted lizards are small, fast, and good at dancing! To keep cool on hot sand, they lift their feet in an alternating pattern. This gives each foot a brief break from the heat. It also makes it look like the lizard is trying to dance! So you might hear them called thermal dancing lizards.

Other names include Anchieta’s dune lizard, in honor of a Portuguese explorer, and the sand-diving lizard, because they tunnel into sand to escape danger or the heat. (The lizard’s shovel snout helps it burrow quickly.)

The shovel-snouted lizard has a special organ that stores water collected from morning mists. This and other adaptations help it tolerate temperatures as high as 111°F.

Namibia’s Little Five may be tiny, but they sure are tough!

See Namibia’s Little Five

The best way to see Namibia’s Little Five is on a guided walk in the Namib Desert. The cool mornings are best, but in winter timing may be more flexible due to milder temperatures. Bring plenty of water, a pair of binoculars, and a good camera if you enjoy taking wildlife photography.

Ujuzi Travel can help you find your perfect desert guide for the Little Five. We can also help you plan your entire Namibian safari! Home to the world’s oldest desert, Namibia is like no other country in Africa. You have many options for exploring Namibia , from self-drive safaris to having a guide with you every step of the way.

Want to see Namibia’s incredible wildlife in person? Schedule a free consultation and start planning your dream safari!

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Etosha National Park: A Self Drive Safari in Namibia

Etosha National Park spans an area of 8,600 square miles and is home to both commonplace and incredibly rare species of animals. On your self-drive tour, you may be lucky enough to spot elephants, endangered black rhinos, lions, giraffes, and possibly even leopards. And no doubt you’ll see plenty of zebras and antelope grazing right near the road. It is also home to more than 340 bird species, including the ostrich and the flamingo.

Early mornings, around sunset, and during the night are the best times to spot wildlife in the park. During the dry months, the floodlit waterholes at the main camps draw nearby animals for incredible viewing. The lions of Etosha not only use the waterholes to hydrate but also to prey on unsuspecting animals.

Etosha National Park is one of the top tourist destinations in Namibia so advanced accommodation bookings are recommended during the busy season. The more time you spend driving through the park, the better your chances of spotting wildlife!

Don’t forget to check out our web story:  Etosha National Park: A Self Drive Safari in Namibia

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Etosha National Park Travel Basics

Travel tips for etosha national park.

• Namibia accepts two kinds of currency: the Namibian Dollar (NAD) and the South African Rand and they are pegged at the same value. At the time of writing, the exchange rate was 13.87 NAD to $1 USD.
• The only place in the park that is cash-only is the Galton Gate. However, if you don’t have cash on you it is possible to pay your park entrance fee when you leave through another gate or at one of the campsites.
• We recommend renting a 4×4 vehicle for your self-drive safari in Etosha (and for Namibia as a whole). The roads in Etosha are generally in good condition, but you never know when you’ll encounter a rough patch.
• You cannot get out of your car in Etosha unless you are in one of the picnic areas or in the fenced lodge areas. Keep your water and snacks in the front seat.

Best Time of Year to Visit Etosha National Park

Namibia has a pleasant climate year-round but if you want to have easy access to wildlife gathered around the many watering holes, you’ll need to visit during the dry season – May to October. That is the busiest time of year in Etosha National Park so be sure to book your campsite or lodge well in advance.

The wet season is a nice time to visit Etosha because there are fewer crowds and it’s easier to secure last-minute lodging. But the roads can be really rough and it can be more difficult to spot wildlife as they can find water all throughout the park.

Packing for Etosha National Park

Read all about everything you should pack for your Namibian vacation here !

Getting to the Park

There are four different entrances to access the park (outlined below). The southernmost Anderson Gate is approximately 260 miles from Windhoek which is where you’ll likely fly into and out of.

Amenities in the Park

Most of the campsites have small stores that sell a few necessities. Wine, beer, a few canned goods, snacks, and overpriced souvenirs to name a few. But don’t count on them for having everything you’ll need to cook your meals. You’ll want to stock up on food and snacks before entering the park.

Note: Due to an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in Northern Namibia, including Etosha, there were agricultural checks at all exit gates when we visited in March of 2018. No one was allowed to take raw meat or eggs out of the park. If you are planning on bringing meat to BBQ into the park, make sure you only bring as much as you need as you will have to throw any extra away before exiting. 

Complete Guide to Etosha National Park

The entrance gates to Etosha National Park are open from sunrise to sunset. As are the gates to each campground. If you are found driving around the park before or after these times you’ll face a fine. You will also face a fine if you attempt to exit the park after sunset.

• The speed limit of 60 kilometers/hour in the park
• Do not feed or disturb wildlife
• No exiting the car unless in designated toilet/picnic spots
• No driving in the park before sunrise or after sunset
• Do not drive off of marked roads
• Drones are not allowed in Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park Entrance Gates

There are four gates that allow access to Etosha National Park. Each gate has security guards and they will request to check your passport and sign you in. You’ll need to sign a form stating that you agree to follow the rules of the park prior to entering.

• Galton Gate – the western entrance to the park. They only accept cash for your entrance fee. While you may be able to pay by card when you leave the park, it’s better to bring cash just in case. The Galton gate is quite far from the lodges and campgrounds in the eastern region so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to traverse the park. If you don’t have enough time to cross the park, plan on staying overnight at the Olifantsrus campground or in a room at Dolomite Camp.

• Anderson Gate – the southern entrance to the park and the closest to Windhoek. It is also the most popular (busy) gate as it has the most services nearby – campgrounds, lodges, etc.

• Von Lindequist Gate – the eastern entrance to the park and the closest access point for the Namutoni Camp.
• King Nehale Gate – the northern entrance to the park.

Etosha Entrance Fees

The fee to enter Etosha National Park is 80 NAD/person per 24-hour period + 10 NAD/car. So if you enter at sunrise and plan to stay the night, you’ll probably want to purchase two 24-hour permits per person to give yourself time to exit in the morning.

Safety in the Park

Do not get out of your car at any time in Etosha unless you are in a designated toilet or picnic site or in a campsite area. All of the campsites in the park are surrounded by electric fencing to keep animals out.

Do not feed the animals. Rabies can be common in jackals and squirrels in the park.

Road Conditions

Most of the roads throughout Etosha National Park are unpaved and can be rough, especially during the rainy season. Roads can have deep ruts and you’ll likely need to drive through several large puddles. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. Make sure you check out our advice for renting a vehicle in Namibia .

Gas and Food in the Park

Once you are inside the park, supplies are limited. It is recommended that you fill up on gas and food prior to entering the gate. Most of the campsites have stores but the pickings are slim and expensive. They also tend to close early. And the gas stations don’t always have gas available. Better to be prepared.

Etosha Campsites

All of the campsites in the park are managed by Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) and can be booked directly on their website.  Keep in mind that they have limited space and often book out way in advance. If you don’t plan ahead, there are also several options right outside of the park gates.

One of the advantages of camping inside the park is that each campground has its own waterhole and viewing area. Sunset and sunrise at the camp waterholes offer prime game viewing opportunities as you aren’t allowed to be driving in the park during these times.

Olifantsrus Campsite

Olifantsrus is the only campground in the park that is not connected to a lodge. This makes for a much more rustic and authentic camping experience. It also has an excellent covered platform overlooking the waterhole for amazing views of the animals from above.

Camping Fee:  389 NAD/person Number of Campsites:  10 Camping Amenities:  Each campsite has braai facilities and power is shared between every two campsites. Gas Station:  No

Okaukuejo Campsite

Okaukejo is the busiest campground in the park due to its proximity to the Anderson Gate (and Windhoek). Almost everyone that visits Etosha passes through here at some point. Make sure to book your campsite in advance (or at least stop by in the morning to check availability) if you plan on staying here.

Camping Fee:  333 NAD/person Number of Campsites:  46 Camping Amenities:  Pool, restaurant, small store, hot showers, drinking water, electricity. Gas Station:  Yes

Halali Resort and Campsite

This is the largest campground in Etosha and due to its central location, it provides quick access to many of the park’s most popular waterholes.

Camping Fee:  333 NAD/person Number of Campsites:  58 Camping Amenities:  Pool, restaurant, small store, hot showers, drinking water, electricity. Gas Station:  Yes

Namutoni Campsite

This is the nicest campground in the park as the sites are grassy and shaded. It also gives you access to an excellent viewing platform at the Namutoni waterhole.

Camping Fee:  333 NAD/person Number of Campsites:  25 Camping Amenities:  Pool, museum, restaurant, small store, hot showers, drinking water, electricity. Gas Station:  Yes

Campsites Right Outside of the Park

All of the campsites inside of Etosha are operated by NWR and tend to be expensive and run down. Wi-Fi is an extra charge and the bathrooms rarely have soap or paper towels. However, if you drive just outside of the gates of the park you can find campgrounds that are much nicer and less expensive.

Oppi-Koppi Rest Camp

Camping Fee:  150 NAD/person Camping Amenities:  Campsite has ostriches that don’t seem to be frightened by people as well as a nightly porcupine feeding. It also has a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant onsite. Every site has water, electricity, a covered kitchen area with lighting, a picnic table, and a sink. This is a good place to get some laundry done as they also have drying lines.

Eldorado Guest House and Camping

Camping Fee:  200 NAD/person Camping Amenities:  The campground has several animals caged on site and they offer guided tours to see them up-close. You will also have access to the swimming pool, bar, and restaurant. Every campsite has water and electricity.

Onguma Tamboti

Camping Fee:  255 NAD/person Camping Amenities:  Each campsite has its own shower, bathroom, and sink for dishes. The campground has a small store with unique souvenirs, a restaurant overlooking a waterhole, and a swimming pool.

Animal Spotting in Etosha

There are a wide variety of animals present in Etosha National Park, including four of the “Big Five” African safari animals – Elephants, Rhinos, Lions, and Leopards! 114 mammal species and hundreds of reptiles and birds call it home. Early mornings and later afternoons are the best times to spot wildlife as they generally tend to lounge in the shade in the heat of the day.

As tempting as it may be to get out of your car for a better photo, you really should be a good steward and practice sustainable travel photography . Follow the rules of the park and stay in your vehicle unless you’re in one of the picnic or camping areas. Also, make sure you’re off the roads before dark. The rules are there to protect both you and the animals of Etosha.

Be on the lookout for the following species (and note that Nick snapped all of these photos himself):

African Elephant

There are over 2,000 African elephants in Etosha. These animals generally travel in small family units of 10-20 so you’re more likely to spot several roaming around together. The best place to spot African elephants is either at the waterhole at the Namutoni Campsite or on the roads heading north from there.

Southern Giraffe

You’re likely to see dozens of giraffes throughout the park, grazing near the road.  Being that they are the tallest mammal on earth, they generally tower above the surrounding vegetation. They are cautious around waterholes as this is where they are most vulnerable to attack by lions.

Black Rhino and White Rhino

Black Rhinos are smaller than White Rhinos and have a hooked lip and a head held straight. Their numbers are currently stable due to conservation efforts in Etosha to protect them from poachers who kill them for their horns. They are very difficult to spot and generally only visit waterholes at night.

White Rhinos have a square lip and hold their heads downward. They were introduced to Etosha in 1995. They tend to be easier to spot as they are more comfortable around cars and enjoy rolling around in mud puddles.

You can recognize this species of antelope by their impressive corkscrew horns and white stripes extending down their backs. They can be seen grazing in open plains all over the park.

This is the largest and heaviest species of antelope in Africa and is fairly uncommon to spot. If you stay at the Eldorado Campground, there are several behind a fence near the road.

Black-faced Impala

These once endangered antelope can be spotted by the black coloring on their faces. They are endemic to Namibia but they can be difficult to spot as they prefer to stick to the woodlands rather than the open plains. Only the males have horns.

You’ll likely see hundreds of these around the park. They travel in herds and gather on open plains. These are one of the most common antelope in Namibia and if you’re lucky you may see them “pronking” – they quite literally leap through the air. It is a unique move used to ward off predators.

Burchell’s Plains Zebra and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra

You can tell the difference between the two in that Burchell’s Plains Zebras have virtually unstriped white legs while the Hartmann’s Mountain Zebras have fully striped legs. They are also near-endemic to Namibia.

These are wary creatures as they are a prime target for lions and leopards. Those in Etosha are very skittish so you’re most likely to see them scurrying away from you, tail held straight up in the air.

Blue Wildebeest

You’re likely to see quite a few of these magnificent creatures hanging solo in open fields or near herds of zebras. Sadly, their numbers have decreased in recent years as they are prime targets for lions.

These can be difficult to spot in Etosha but can be seen hanging out around watering holes by day. They generally hunt after dark and primarily prey on zebras. They live in prides of 5-10 females, 2-3 territorial males, and their cubs.

Gemsbok (Oryx)

Sporting long, straight horns, these antelope can be seen frequently throughout Etosha. Females have longer, thinner horns than males.

Black-Backed Jackal

These may seem innocent when approaching your car but beware, many have rabies so don’t feed or touch them. They are generally scavengers but also prey on rodents, insects, and birds.

This is the world’s heaviest bird and they can be found throughout Etosha.

Damara Dik-Dik

These darling tiny antelope are the smallest in Namibia. They have large eyes and look almost like cartoons. They often stand motionless in order to avoid detection.

Want more tips on traveling to Namibia? Read all about what to pack , what to expect when renting a car , and follow our recommended road trip itinerary !

We hope you have an amazing time visiting Etosha National Park!

Want more help planning your trip to Namibia? Check out our favorite travel guides!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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Namibia safari – The complete guide for first-time visitors

Namibia isn’t known for safari . This is Africa’s natural art gallery, a country of superlative landscapes and breathtaking silence.

Most people don’t even think a Namibia safari is possible. How can wildlife thrive in the desert? Why visit Namibia when Botswana and South Africa are next door?

Yet desert-adapted elephants make epic journeys across the sand. Rhinos gather around salt pans. Black-maned lions survey their dusty kingdoms. Gemsbok are everywhere, their majestic horns a symbol of Namibia.

A safari in Namibia can be as good as a safari anywhere else in Africa. It’s just a little different and you don’t have the same multitude of destinations.

This article guides first-time visitors through Namibia’s best safari destinations . It covers when to go, what to do, how to reduce costs, and how to make the most from the experience.

5 Compelling Reasons to Visit Namibia For Safari

1. Africa’s natural art gallery

Namibia requires time . It’s one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries and it’s difficult getting around. There’s virtually nothing other than wilderness. Even a town that’s signposted for 500 kilometres passes by in the blink of an eye.

Most of the land is inhospitable . Western Namibia is covered by the world’s greatest sand dunes, a barrier too inpenetrable for even the rampaging colonialists.

Eastern Namibia is dominated by the Kalahari Desert , barren plains that bake beneath the sun. Scattered through these deserts are some of Africa’s most surreal sights.

The Fish River Canyon , stark and evocative as it cuts a path through Africa’s crust. It’s the world’s second largest canyon and you can read our guide here .

Then the Namib Desert , where Sossusvlei and Deadvlei are just the famous attractions in a landscape of kaleidoscopic dunes. Read our complete Namib Desert guide here .

Damaraland is all strange rocks and massive mountains, an ethereal assortment of shapes and silence.

The desert has even taken over towns. Luderitz and Kolmanskop are a poignant reminder of nature’s power, where old wooden houses are now buried in sand.

These highlights make for an inspiring adventure. In Namibia there is more than safari and that is one of the big highlights. The vacation is more diverse and it’s also a lot cheaper when you don’t need to pay park fees every single day.

2. Animals are easy to find

Although it sounds counter-intuitive, such an inhospitable environment makes the safari incredibly easy .

Life in the desert revolves around water . Animals must cluster close to where water remains. So every Namibia safari focuses on waterholes, pans or rivers. Find the water and you find the animals.

Vegetation is sparse . There are very few places for wildlife to hide. Again, this makes wildlife encounters easy. Just gaze across the desert and you can spot herds from miles away.

3. Living with giants

You must be tough to survive here . So step forward desert-adapted elephants, white rhinos, Angolan giraffe and some of Africa’s most elegant antelope species .

In terms of actual numbers there are less large mammals in Namibia than Botswana , South Africa , Kenya or Tanzania . However, as these animals gather in similar places it’s possible to experience a superb wildlife diversity in one place.

Most importantly, Namibia is where you get close . It’s where you feel the battle for survival and experience life on the edge. It’s one thing to see an elephant in a lush forest. It’s quite another to see the emotion on an elephant that has travelled five days to reach water.

Evocative scenes play out. Enchanting gestures communicate how these animals feel. There’s joy and energy. And then there is the brutal reality of life .

Perhaps a carcass being picked at by African vultures . Maybe a wounded animal stumbling away from a battle to mate; or lions tossing bones from a zebra carcass.

4. Africa’s cheapest safari

Probably the biggest reason for choosing a Namibia safari is the cost . Here you get the most intense encounters for the best price.

Park fees are lower than other Southern African countries and significantly less than in East Africa.

The camps and lodges are usually modest , without the thrills and luxuries of some in South Africa. Most of them are at the lower end of the price scale, which is very different from Botswana where camps could be USD 1000 per person a night.

Namibia’s public campsites are excellent . They are simple and well maintained, located in areas that can be rich in wildlife. Anyone who is self sufficient will find these camps accessible and cheap.

While Namibia is an enormous wilderness country the safari destinations are relatively easy to reach . A four-wheel drive vehicle is required.

But it’s not like in Botswana where flights are necessary to reach parts of the Okavango Delta , or in East Africa where it’s almost impossible to visit without a local tour.

Namibia is so vast that you don’t need to escape the crowds . You can have a private concession-style safari experience, full of exclusive natural encounters, without needing to pay a premium.

5. The best country for a self drive safari

Excellent camps , easy to find wildlife , and accessible destinations . That adds up to a great self drive destination. You do the safari and this is cheaper than a tour.

The classic way to explore Namibia is to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle that is equipped with a popup roof tent, a camp kitchen, and everything that’s needed for multiple days in the wild.

Visit the national parks , spend the days on safari, then set up at one of the campsites. It’s raw and rugged , an adventure in elephant country with no guides to protect you.

Self drive safaris are not advisable in East Africa – rules and regulations make them expensive and dangerous. One Africa Freak contributor encountered two backpackers in a Toyota hatchback stuck in the Serengeti mud, leaning out of the window taking photos of lions.

South Africa is good but doesn’t have the same wilderness factor , not when the Kruger now has a paved road through the middle of it.

Much of Botswana’s best safari destinations are inaccessible, either because the roads are washed away or the area has been gazetted as a private concession.

Then there is Namibia: freedom , beauty , safari and a connection with your wild side.

Guide to Namibia Safari Destinations

Etosha is one of Africa’s ultimate safari destinations. The rest in Namibia is good and exciting. Visit Namibia and Etosha has to be at the top of the list. If you can, add on the Caprivi Strip for an experience in contrasts.

Etosha National Park

Etosha has an eternal paradox . Like all of Namibia there is an incredible sense of wilderness and exploring a distant piece of old Africa. Yet Etosha is also very accessible and the game viewing is so simple.

There’s comfort and simplicity here, even when gazing across the shimmering Etosha salt pan. Within Etosha there’s the only water for hundreds of miles. That attracts a great succession of migratory mammals during the dry reason.

Often there’s a mystical collection of animals at a waterhole, a kind of animal party featuring hippos, gemsbok , impala, elephant, zebra and giraffe. Then the lions come and transform the dynamic.

The Etosha savannah is scorched yellow and red. Vegetation shrivels and a lot of the park appears lifeless. At the park’s heart is the Etosha Pan , a mammoth salt bed that the park is named after (Etosha literally means great white place ).

Antelope splash about the pan after the rains. Elephants and buffalo dig for the nourishing salt. Gaze across the pan and rhinos emerge from the mirage, the image like something from a work of fiction.

After the pan shrivels and dries, life revolves around the park’s different waterholes . Most camps overlook one of these waterholes so a lot of the safari can be spent sat on a balcony, drinking a beer as wildlife also takes a drink.

The Etosha camp accommodation is very cheap in comparison to South Africa and Botswana, usually less than USD 150 per room for a very comfortable tented camp in a prime location (it may be USD 1000 in South Africa).

Public campsites aren’t next to the waterholes but are among migratory channels so you will see animals nearby. And every night the Etosha animals create their own noisy lullaby.

Animals to see and planning an Etosha visit

Etosha is home to four of  the big five . It’s one of the best places in Africa to see white rhinos and their abundance is quite remarkable here.

Elusive species like black-faced impala are common. Tense predatory scenes are witnessed around the waterholes.

There’s just about everything you could ask for in a safari destination and the ease of the game viewing is elevated by Etosha’s openness . Spotting wildlife is straightforward, even without a guide.

Etosha is located in northern Namibia , roughly a four-hour drive from capital city Windhoek and seven hours from the Caprivi Strip.

Allow at least three full days . The park is big and there is more than enough wildlife for three days. Ideally consider four nights, allowing for two nights in two different sides of the park.

Ongava Game Reserve

A private concession in southern Etosha, Ongava is a luxurious and expensive destination. It’s typically included on high-end safari itineraries that use light aircraft to hop around the country.

The key highlight is the walking safaris , in particular walking safaris with white rhinos. Nighttime game drives and photography hides add to the intimacy.

Wildlife is similar to Etosha and there are only a dozen guests at a time , so it does feel very personal. Still, it’s debatable whether Ongava is worth the price when Etosha next door is so good.

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Halfway between Windhoek and Etosha, Okonjima can be a good Namibia safari introduction . The park is small and fenced but does provide good wildlife encounters, particularly with the cats.

Okonjima is home to the Africat Foundation that helps to rescue and rehabilitate Africa’s carnivores. These cats are in addition to free roaming wild predators. You will need to stay at the lodge in the reserve and one night is sufficient.

Caprivi Strip

Namibia’s fertile panhandle is a surreal contrast to the country’s desert wilderness. Forests and grasslands flourish as four of Africa’s great rivers take root: the Okavango, Zambezi, Chobe and Kwando .

These rivers attract migratory herds throughout the dry season, from various antelope to many thousands of elephant. Many animals stop by the Caprivi as part of their journey to the Okavango Delta or Chobe.

Animals and villages must coexist in the Caprivi. This makes sense: in a desert country almost everything wants to be near a river . There is no single national park but a series of small national parks interspersed with villages and a paved highway heading towards Victoria Falls.

Some of these have been established by local communities and the Caprivi Strip is a celebration of locally organised conservation .

Here there’s an acknowledgement that local people have been integral to conservation since the dawn of time. They’ve found a modern solution that satisfies the needs of wildlife, local people and tourists.

Bwabwata is the largest of the parks, followed by Mudumu and Nkasa Rupara . There’s also Caprivi Game Park , Mashi Conservancy , Wuparo Conservancy and Salambala Conservancy .

Although they don’t share borders, these parks do help create a single wilderness . They have successfully ensured the preservation of one of Africa’s most important wildlife corridors. Here you will see elephants and many other animals crossing the highway.

Each has either a public campsite or a camp and the prices are very reasonable .

Animals to see and planning a Caprivi visit

There is a little of everything but mostly you encounter elephants and different antelope . Giraffe poke their heads up above the trees, buffalo march around and zebra are conspicuous.

Don’t expect many big cat encounters . Not many live here and the lush vegetation makes them difficult to find.

Local San guides may be able to show you a wild dog den, so visitors with patience can be rewarded with sightings of one of Africa’s most endangered species;  read the full wild dog story here .

It’s relatively easy to cover any of the parks in a single morning or afternoon drive. To spend more than two nights in any of these parks doesn’t make sense.

The Caprivi is in the far north of Namibia and it’s literally a 400 kilometre strip that juts above Botswana. Follow the strip to the end and you reach Victoria Falls .

We’d recommend spreading the Caprivi journey over three days . With that you can spend a night in two parks or conservancies before leaving Namibia to visit Victoria Falls or Chobe in Botswana.

But if you are blessed with time then extend the journey. These peaceful parks provide a beautiful connection with your wild side . No other people, a handful of grazing animals, and a fertile wilderness.

When to Go on a Namibia Safari

Namibia has clearly defined seasons and these have an enormous impact on the safari experience.

June to August – dry season, mild temperatures, good game viewing

• Mild days and cold nights ; bring warm layers and expect to spend each evening around a campfire.
• Great dry season wildlife viewing with lots of animals around waterholes.
• Dusty skies which aren’t ideal for photography.
• Peak season can result in crowds, especially in parts of Etosha.

September to November – dry season, hot, excellent game viewing

• Hotter days and warmer nights; be prepared to sweat.
• Outstanding dry season game viewing ; there is hardly any water left so wildlife is highly concentrated.
• Less visitors compared to June to August.
• The rains usually start in November and usually come as a relief.

December to January – wet season, very hot, best avoided

• Very hot days in the desert.
• Occasional storms but it doesn’t rain that much in the desert.
• A surprising number of visitors as it is school holiday time in Southern Africa.
• Animals have dispersed so game viewing is more difficult .

February to May – wet season, warm and beautiful

• Namibia is incredibly attractive after the rains have come.
• You may experience storms but mostly these months have blue skies and warm temperatures .
• Wildlife looks healthy and you can see lots of babies.
• However, it’s harder to see animals as they are dispersed.

Planning a Namibia Safari

Namibia safaris often require intensive planning as you must decide how to get around. Overland tours are the most popular mode of travel. You are in a small group and usually spend one to two weeks traveling through Namibia.

For self drive safaris think very carefully about where to pick up and return the vehicle. There’s a superb loop from Windhoek: Windhoek, Damaraland, Etosha, Caprivi Strip, Victoria Falls, then returning via Botswana.

It’s very tempting to extend the journey by starting in Cape Town or Johannesburg but this does add a lot of miles and fuel cost to an already long journey. However, coming from South Africa allows for a route incorporating Fish River Canyon and Sossusvlei.

Another option is to take public transport to Windhoek and then continue the journey from there. Windhoek based tour operators can take you on a three or four-day trip to Etosha for a reasonable price.

The more expensive option is a fly-in safari . Beautiful views extend from the window as you fly to Namibia’s distant destinations. These are aerial safaris and maximize the time you have, ideal if this is a multi-country and you only have two weeks in total.

Map of Namibia’s Main Parks

There’s at least a dozen national parks in Namibia. Here’s the country’s major protected areas and where to find them on a map.

Good Luck in Namibia

We love Namibia . This is where you really connect with your wild side.

At first it seems like an endless empty wilderness. Spend time and look closer, because this is where safari secrets hide .

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

Cape Cross Seal Reserve: a smelly encounter

Deadvlei is far more impressive than Sossusvlei – Here’s why

Etosha National Park – The ultimate guide

2 thoughts on “namibia safari – the complete guide for first-time visitors”.

Is it easy to arrive in the capital of Namibia and get a 5, 6 day tour/safari in a local enterprise, that will be cheaper then the ones we find on the internet and we contacted previously when abroad? I mean, I would like to know if I arrive in Namibia will it be easy to find a safari organized by locals, that are cheaper then the ones I find on the internet?

Sure, it is definitely possible to organize your trip once you land in Namibia. There are various travel operators, especially in Windhoek.

That being said, I wouldn’t say it is necessarily “easy”.

It still requires time to organize things properly. You need to find a reliable operator, you might not have as many options… plus pricing will depend on the travel period (more expensive in the high season; in July-October).

NB: Namibia is the perfect destination for self drive safaris , so this could be a nice option to consider if you prefer more flexibility and freedom.

Hopefully this helps.

Happy planning,

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Namibia Wildlife Safari Tours

Whether you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat or learn about wildlife protection, with 133 wildlife safaris in Namibia you're sure to find a holiday package that will astound you.

133 Namibia wildlife tour packages with 310 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

6 Day Dunes & Wildlife Accommodated Safari

A wonderful tour. The tour description is precise, and we actually went through like that. Like the most tours, you'll probably need to ask something to them, but they were responsible almost all the time, which was helpful. Accommodations are very satisfiable. Of course, they're not like 5 star hotel, but are high quality given the places we visit. I liked especially 2nd to 5th nights. As others mentioned, we need to spend lots of time driving without music, but I feel that was inevitable to visit across the country. Still, what I was amazed the most was the guide. Gideon, our guide, prepared pretty meals every time, explained well about everything, spotted animals quickly in the safari, drove with safety, and clean the bus every day. Thank you for the experience

Private 10 Days Beauty of Namibia - Lodges

You will not regret it at all. Namibia is a great county

10 Days Self Tour - Beauty of Namibia

Highlights of Namibia (11 Days)

WINDHOEK, ETOSHA, SWAKOPMUND & SOSSUSVLEI ADVENTURE (Guided)

Namibia Lodge Safari

It's great! Well organized and full of attractions.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Overland Truck

7 Day Namibian Highlights Accommodated Safari

Fantastic would definitely recommend this tour. Accommodation in Windhoek - bah- more like backpackers. Used it for convenience sake to depart from and return to. However regretted not booking my last night at Heja Lodge which looked fantastic. I was picking up my Nomad tour from there early in the morning and regretted staying in Windhoek at Chameloen Guest House the last night. Room dark, very basic.

Sossusvlei, Swakopmund & Etosha (Camping) - 7 Days

Excellent tour, well organized and paced. Good good, facilities were simple but adequate and with perfect positions. Lukas was a very good driver and all the staff was very responsive and attenti be Only negative note: the first 3 days we were in 4 and that meant 3 people sitting on the back seat, very tight and uncomfortable.

Classic Namibia 12 Days DEPARTING SATURDAYS **Sustainable Approach to Travel

I had an amazing time I finally visited Namibia with my husband on the twelve day classic camping safari. The tour surpassed our expectations from the quality of service by Calisto our guide. He showed us many wild animals, taught us about Namibia's history, culture and ecosystems and so much more. Camping in the wild was exciting, sharing great food, nice stories under the open African sky is so rejuvenating. It was much fun exploring Namibia in tranquility away from the crowds. My appreciation goes to the WAT team for going out of their way to host us and sparing no effort to ensure our delight.

6 Day Etosha & Skeleton Coast Experience * DEPARTING THURSDAYS

7 Days / 6 Nights Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Etosha National Park ( Comfort)

I really enjoyed my time in Namibia with this tour. It was a great way to safely see so many of the wonderful things Namibia has to share. You see all the major spots and the accommodations are really unique and beautiful! The company needs to work on some COVID procedures as most people I interacted with were unfortunately unvaccinated.

7-Days Sossusvlei, Swakopmund & Etosha National Park (Lodging)

We had an amazing time seeing the highlights of Namibia with our tour guide Shawn! Small groups are ideal for this type of travel and you may be lucky enough to be the only couple on tour like we were! Meals and lodges were great, vehicle was perfect for the safari in Etosha and long stretches of driving on gravel roads. Highly recommend travelling with Discovery Transfers and Tours!

8-Day Etosha NP, Swakopmund & Sossusvlei ( Camping)

This is an excellent tour to give you a small slice of Namibia. As the country is so large this tour covers a lot of ground as best as one could possibly do in barely a weeks time. You experience the extreme of the desert at the dunes of Sossusvlei, the Atlantic coast at Swakopmund/Cape Cross and the famous wildlife of Etosha. If you are short on time I highly recommend this tour. While self drive is possible the distances are long and would have left me too exhausted to enjoy the destinations. Our five year old daughter also loved the entire trip, especially the camping!

10 Day Discover Namibia Small Group Safari

My daughter and I did the 9 day discover Namibia tour and had a fantastic time. The itinerary and accommodations were great, and our guide Willem was fantastic. He was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and accommodating; we could not have asked for a better guide. Namibia is a beautiful country; we would love to return.

Summer Safari Package to Africa

This was my first traveling experience alone. I had the most amazing trip! Junita's Extreme Adventures took care of everything once I told her the activities & excursions I was interested in. My lodging, meals & transportation were all planning out for me in a wonderful, busy itinerary. I have the most wonderful experiences & memories for the rest of my life! This felt divinely planned for me. I could not have asked for better!

What people love about Wildlife Tours in Namibia

A wonderful tour. The tour description is precise, and we actually went through like that. Like the most tours, you'll probably need to ask something to them, but they were responsible almost all the time, which was helpful. Accommodations are very satisfiable. Of course, they're not like 5 star hotel, but are high quality given the places we visit. I liked especially 2nd to 5th nights. As others mentioned, we need to spend lots of time driving without music, but I feel that was inevitable to visit across the country. Still, what I was amazed the most was the guide. Gideon, our guide, prepared pretty meals every time, explained well about everything, spotted animals quickly in the safari, drove with safety, and clean the bus every day. Thank you for the experience

WOW, Motema Tours had everything under control !! From the booking consultations to the Excellent guided excursions. Not only were they well prepared, but they also had all Covid-19 regulations in place for our safety. We highly recommend Motema Tours and Safaris for a Great Tour.

Very well organized tour, small group, we were lucky with 2 guides, saw lots of places, animals and everything that was there to be seen. Namibia incredible country. As a recommendation- 2 or 3 days more would have been ideal. Swakopmund has lots of activities and shops (this should be visited not on a weekend as everything shuts at 5pm) and the waterberg plateau also has so much more activities to do. And possibly 1 day just to relax as the drives of 500+ km per day are exhausting. But overall great experience

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• Etosha National Park (45)

Regions in Namibia

• Etosha National Park (61)
• Sossusvlei (54)

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• 10 Amazing Wildlife Tours & Trips 2024/2025
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Top 10 safari animals in Africa & where to find them

• South Luangwa National Park

Sweeping savannas, grassy wetlands, and wind-sculpted dunes play host to hundreds of creatures across Africa, from tiny reptiles to the largest mammals on the planet. Which ones capture the public’s attention the most? We’ve delved into UK Google search data to find out.

Below, we reveal the top ten African safari animals and why they’ve earned a spot on our list. We’ve also gathered expert insights from our Africa specialists to let you know where you can see each species in its natural habitat, unveiling the best safari experiences across the continent.

Despite their apex-predator status in the animal kingdom, lions have captured people’s hearts since childhood, with beloved films and whole documentaries dedicated to their hunting prowess. That’s why it’s no surprise to see them on our list of top ten African safari animals. The good news is that you can see lions across Africa with relative ease, though each destination offers a different experience.

If it’s your first safari and you’d like to see all of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos), you can’t go amiss with a trip to South Africa’s Greater Kruger Region . Or, to witness the drama of the Great Migration, when herds of migrating wildebeest attract opportunistic prides, head to the Serengeti in northern Tanzania .

For a luxury lion-spotting experience, we recommend a trip to Botswana’s Okavango Delta . Alongside safari drives and boat rides, you can head out on foot with a guide who’ll point out the paw prints of resident cats as you walk, before you retreat to your luxury lodge.

After chimpanzees and bonobos, gorillas are humans’ closest living relatives and share up to 98% of our DNA. It’s perhaps this odd familiarity that makes gorillas one of the top safari animals in Africa. Not only that, but you can only encounter mountain gorillas in the wild — they don’t survive in captivity.

Two of the only places you can get up close with these elusive (and often shy) creatures is in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Encountering a troop often involves hours of hiking and bushwhacking through primeval forest with an expert guide, but this makes it all the more special when you finally set eyes on them.

To recuperate, you could add on time at the beaches of Zanzibar , doing as much or as little as you want on the sugar-soft sands. Alternatively, expand your safari beyond gorillas and take a primate tracking trip through Rwanda  to spot chimpanzees and golden monkeys as well.

3. Elephant

Towering high above the undergrowth, elephants are the largest land animals currently on the planet, but they’re also gentle giants capable of displaying deep emotions. On safari, you can watch elephant herds frolic in waterholes, walk in convoy trunk-to-tail across the plains, and graze lazily under the sun, all the while learning about their intricate social structures and communication methods.

You’ll spot elephants across Southern and Eastern Africa. However, the highest concentration on the continent is in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, which we suggest pairing with a trip to the Okavango Delta . As you look out for herds among the region’s grassy floodplains, your guide might also point out leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.

Or, for an entirely different elephant experience, you could opt for Namibia instead . Here, the local population has adapted to the desert climate and you can see herds wander against a stark backdrop of sun-scorched peaks.

Leaving a trail of dust in their wake, buffalo move in huge herds, often fighting off lions as they go. During drier months, you’ll find them hanging around waterholes and floodplains, congregating in their hundreds for protection. When water is more abundant, they don’t linger as long, moving about constantly in search of food.

You can see buffalo herds in many parks and reserves across East and Southern Africa, but you’re most likely to encounter them wherever there’s a good water source (buffalo need to drink every day). Botswana is one of our top destinations for buffalo sightings, with herds moving between the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park regularly. You can combine the two regions in a single trip , taking boat and mokoro (canoe) rides to spot the resident buffalo from a different perspective.

5. Flamingo

In whimsical shades of coral, pastel, and fuchsia, flamingos appear like something out of a fairytale. When flocked together, they paint the landscape in a pearly pink hue and, during breeding season, the males ‘dance’ in unison, heads bobbing and wings flapping as one.

Our specialists recommend taking a trip through northern Tanzania  to spot flamingos, hippos, and tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara before heading into the wilds of the Serengeti. If you’re an avid flamingo fan, you could also venture further north to Lake Natron, where around 75% of the world’s lesser flamingo population is born.

Alternatively, spot these fancy-feathered creatures at Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya, just a couple of hours’ drive from Nairobi, which you can tie in with a wider safari and beach trip . Here, we recommend staying at a lava-stone cottage at Mbweha Camp , heading out on wildlife drives with your guide to watch the birds blanket the lake in a cloud of pink.

Coat patterns as unique as our fingerprints. Legs that appear to run in slow motion. Winding tongues that grapple with tree branches high above the savanna floor. Giraffes are curious creatures and unlike any other living animal on the planet. For this reason, it’s easy to see why they rank in third place on our list of top ten African safari animals.

On a trip to Nyerere National Park in Tanzania , you can watch as herds of over 50 giraffes congregate at the lakes, sliding into a splits-like position to crane their long necks down to water level. Or, for a rare opportunity to soar above these gangly creatures, take a hot-air balloon ride over the Masai Mara on a luxury safari in Kenya .

Another of our top destinations for giraffe-spotting is Botswana, at Thamo Telele lodge. Located just outside of Maun, the lodge boasts its own herd of 20 giraffes, which graze at the nearby waterhole. During your stay, its team of naturalists can teach you how to identify each individual by their distinct spot patterns. And, a portion of the money from your stay will go toward the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, which supports the species throughout Africa.

7. Scorpion

Dozens of scorpion species scuttle around Africa’s deserts, grasslands, savannas, and forests, but they’re not often the star of the show on a safari. Nevertheless, their reputation for being dangerous (not all actually are) is perhaps what reels in more adrenaline-oriented wildlife enthusiasts.

Scorpions tend to emerge at night and often steer clear of people, so you don’t have to worry too much about coming across one unwittingly. However, your guides and lodge staff will give you safety advice should you spot one (our specialists also recommend shaking out your shoes before putting them on, just to be safe).

That said, if you do want to proactively glimpse one of these pincered critters, a trip to Namibia’s dunes  should be top of your list. Just south of Swakopmund, you can head out with a guide who’ll sift through the sand to unearth Namibia’s smaller creatures, including — if you’re lucky — scorpions. You might also spot dancing lizards and cartwheeling spiders.

The fastest land animal in the world, the cheetah makes for a thrilling sight on safari. Even if you don’t catch them darting after prey, you can take the time to appreciate their solid black spots, rounded ears, and fuzzy stomachs as they lounge. Unlike leopards, they come out during the day, but they are typically harder to spot.

Though cheetahs are present in many of Africa’s wildlife reserves, including the Serengeti, Masai Mara, and Kruger National Park, our specialists particularly recommend a visit to Etosha National Park on a wildlife-focused trip to Namibia . It has large swathes of grassy plains, ideal for spotting cheetahs (and an array of other big cats), and is far less visited than Africa’s popular parks, meaning you won’t come across many other vehicles on your drives.

9. Chameleon

With striking color-shifting abilities, it’s no wonder chameleons make it onto the list. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t actually change color to blend with their surroundings, but instead to convey mood, communicate with mates, or to adapt to the temperature. Despite that, chameleons still tend to be hard to spot, so exploring with an eagle-eyed guide is a must.

Namibia’s dunes are the ideal place to spot chameleons — specifically, the Namaqua chameleon. These speedy little creatures change color to thermoregulate in the ever-changing desert climate, turning black in the morning to absorb the heat and a lighter shade in the daytime to cool off.

However, if you want to admire a more diverse array of chameleons, head to the rainforests of Madagascar . The island provides shelter for around half of the world’s species, including the tiny Amber Mountain leaf chameleon, just the size of your fingernail.

10. Crocodile

With their prehistoric appearance and powerful jaws, crocodiles are always high on people’s safari wish lists and feature in sixth place in our own list of top ten African safari animals. You can watch them basking lazily in the sun, gliding ominously through the water, or grappling with prey as they reveal an impressive collection of serrated teeth.

Perhaps the most exhilarating way to see crocodiles on safari is from the banks of the Mara River during the Great Migration. Here, they lurk and leap out of the water hoping to catch wildebeest and zebras as they dash to the other side. You can witness the drama on a trip to Tanzania  or Kenya  between July and October.

Further reading

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Unforgettable Safari Adventure
• Photographic safaris
• Safaris for less: 3 great-value safari ideas
• Safari on a budget
• Walking safaris

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Desert Animals of Namibia

• March 10, 2021 March 10, 2021

When we think of a desert, we think of sand and sand dunes. The Namib Desert, however, has many wild animals, mostly in their National Parks, but also can be seen en route to your destination. If you are planning a Namibia tour, these are some of the animals you can spot.

Amongst the antelope you will see in Namibia is the Oryx, which is the national animal of Namibia. These beautiful animals roam everywhere in the country, from parks to small towns or villages. In the savannah areas of Namibia, Kudu can be seen eating leaves or fresh shoots. These antelope are very shy and will flee if they feel threatened. Another antelope that can be seen in many numbers is the Springbok. The Springbok is a smaller antelope, easily distinguished by their white belly, medium brown coat and white spot on their bottoms. These animals got their name because they run and jump, sometimes up to a height of 2 meters!

One of the animals found mainly in the National Parks of Namibia is the African Elephant. The only other place they are found in Namibia is in the Damaraland. Most Elephants are found in the Etosha National Park. Another animal that is protected in the National Parks of Namibia is the Rhinoceros. There are two species of Rhinoceros in the Namibia, the Black and the White Rhinoceros.

The Zebra’s black and white stripes are easily spotted in the bushy areas of Namibia. These animals are relatives of horses and live in large herds.

An interesting story about the wild animals in Namibia’s, is that of the wild Horses. During World War 1, there were about 6000 horses stationed at Garub. On the 27 March 1915 a pilot successfully dropped bombs on the camp, which resulted in many of the frightened horses running away. Today they are lovingly known as “The Namib’s”, the free horses of the Namib Desert. This area is no animal’s paradise as it is harsh and arid, but these horses survive against all odds in the barren plains around Garub.

Africa would not be Africa without Lions. The most famous lions in Namibia are the incredible desert-adapted lions of the Kunene. They are also resident in the woodlands of Etosha National Park, Caprivi, Kaokoland and Khaudom Park.

Due to huge organizational efforts, Namibia is now proudly known and the Cheetah Capital of the World. Namibia has more cheetah than any other country on earth. Otjitotongwe Cheetah Guest Farm is one of the personal guest farms found in Namibia. This guest farm focuses on the interaction with tame and wild cheetah. This family run guest farm will take you on an adventure amongst the wild cheetah during a game drive. You will also get the opportunity to join the family while they feed the tame cheetah. You may even get to touch the tame cheetah.

The Skeleton Coast National Park is along Namibia’s northern coastline and is home to one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of Cape Fur Seals. Here about 100 000 seals can be founds year round. A visit in November or December will ensure you see their tiny pups.

When you go on a Namibia tour , you can expect to see all sorts of interesting animals as well as interesting landscapes. You can book your tour today and visit this fascinating place.

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

#1 Botswana

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Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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