Things to do in Etosha Pan
Discover the best attractions and experiences Etosha Pan has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the tangible remnants of Namibia's colonial history and park heritage around Etosha Pan.
Fort Namutoni
A well-preserved German colonial fortress beside the Namutoni settlement, overlooking the pan.
Andersson Gate
The southern entrance to Etosha, named after explorer Sven Andersson, reflecting the park's frontier history.
Museums
Learn about Etosha's wildlife, geology and conservation at on-site centers where available.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding museums recommendations for Etosha Pan. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites are limited within the park, but nearby safari towns offer small chapels and churches.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Etosha Pan. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Namibia’s premier wildlife destination surrounds the Etosha Pan.
Etosha National Park
Namibia's premier wildlife sanctuary around the vast Etosha Pan, famed for dense wildlife sightings.
Okaukuejo Waterhole
Iconic floodlit waterhole inside the park, a magnet for nocturnal and daytime wildlife.
Namutoni Fort & Waterhole
Historic Namutoni Fort set beside a busy waterhole, blending colonial heritage with wildlife viewing.
Neighborhoods
The park’s main camps offer different bases for exploring Etosha.
Okaukuejo Camp
A central park base with a famous floodlit waterhole.
Namutoni Camp
A scenic camp around the fort, with forested surroundings and wildlife.
Halali Camp
A peaceful camp known for its waterhole and open-plan layout.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy wildlife-watching and stargazing that don’t require extra fees beyond park entry.
Watch wildlife at waterholes
Observe elephants, zebras, and other wildlife gathering at waterholes around the pan.
Sunrise and sunset viewing from platforms
Take in dramatic light over the pan from designated viewing areas.
Birdwatching along park roads
Spot many bird species such as lilac-breasted rollers along the pistes.
Gastronomy
Camps in Etosha Pan offer simple Namibian dining experiences.
Okaukuejo Camp Restaurant
Casual dining with local dishes and easy meals at the central camp.
Namutoni Camp Restaurant
Relaxed meals with lake views from the Namutoni area.
Halali Camp Bar & Grill
Casual dining and drinks near waterholes with a relaxed ambiance.
Nightlife
Evenings around Etosha camps offer glow from waterholes and quiet bars.
Okaukuejo floodlit waterhole
Night-time wildlife viewing at the famous floodlit waterhole.
Namutoni Camp evenings
Relaxed nights with camp bars and wildlife ambience.
Halali camp ambiance
Evenings with peaceful surroundings and stargazing opportunities.
Entertainment
Camp programs and cultural experiences add to the safari atmosphere.
Traditional Boma Dinners
Evening meals with local storytelling and music around a campfire.
Ranger-led wildlife talks
Short talks on predators, birds and ecology at campsides.
Cultural performances at camps
Local dances and music arranged for guests on select evenings.
Sports
Active travellers can engage in gentle pursuits and photography.
Birdwatching along park roads
Spot desert-adapted birds and raptors during scenic drives.
Guided photography safaris
Focused sessions on wildlife photography and composition.
Self-drive safari
Explore the park independently via its network of gravel roads.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the obvious with lighter, ranger-assisted experiences.
Night game drive
Guided drive focusing on nocturnal species and behaviors.
Early morning bush walk (restricted)
Short guided walks with a ranger under safety guidelines.
Pan-side stargazing
Clear Namibian skies offer excellent opportunities to view constellations.