Shimmering Etosha is the most visited Namibian wildlife hotspot

Namibia's premier wildlife hotspot, Etosha National Park is named for the 4,731km2 pan around which the park is set. Habitats include mixed woodlands where dominant tree species include Camel-thorn and Mopane, bordered by grassland. The park is malaria free and you don't need a 4WD vehicle in order to access it. There are a wide range of accommodation options in the park, along with restaurants, shops, very welcome swimming pools and fuel stations. The park's three main camps - Okakuejo, Halali and Namutoni, offer chalets as well as campsites. They over look floodlit waterholes. Deeper into the national park are the more exclusive Onkoshi and Dolomite Camps, perfect for a luxury Etosha safari.

Game congregates around the park's waterholes on the southern edge of the pan, and wildlife viewing is best in the drier months (May to October). There are lots of things to see in Etosha, including elephant, black and white rhinos, giraffe, lion, leopard, zebra and of particular note, the endemic black-faced impala. Birders would do well to come in the wetter months, when after the rains, many species are calling, displaying and nesting.

Etosha's excellent infrastructure, accessibility and prolific wildlife make it a deservedly popular choice for self-drive safaris - its a wonderful park in which to watch game at your leisure, from your own vehicle.

There are three different areas to explore on a tailor made Etosha safari:

Eastern Etosha - superb game viewing, excellent lodges, and few other people

Southern Etosha - the easiest and most popular part of the park to access

Western Etosha - off the beaten track, with night drives