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Safari: Etosha
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Experience a Wild and Luxurious African Safari
Etosha National Park is regarded as the greatest wildlife sanctuary in Namibia. The park’s main feature is a salt pan, the Etosha Pan, which is so large it can be seen from space. This huge salt pan is surrounded by grassy plains that after heavy rains becomes a lake and attracts large flocks of flamingos, colouring the landscape candy-floss pink.
When dry, the wildlife that roam this stark landscape have adapted to its arid conditions and they all rely on numerous waterholes that are dotted throughout the reserve, some man-made and some natural. The park boasts the largest population of black rhino in the world and is home to 4 of the Big 5 species, with only the exclusion of buffalo. The park is also famously home of some rare and unusual wildlife species including the black-faced impala, Hartmann’s mountain zebra and the smallest antelope in the world, the Damara dik-dik.
Etosha National Park has a selection of lodges that have waterholes, which are floodlit at night, to get the best sightings of black rhino, lion, elephant and the evasive leopard. This area is a wildlife photographer’s dream and a safari enthusiast’s delight.
Walking safaris are popular in Etosha and are a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The slow pace of the walk and the knowledgeable insights of trained guides, opens your eyes to a fascinating part of the world, where nature reigns supreme.
Incentive Highlights
- Unforgettable Walking Safaris
- Rare Wildlife Encounters
- Easily accessible national park from the Capital of Namibia, Windhoek
What to Do
Take a private charter flight direct to the lodge airstrip (Etosha)
We will arrange exclusive charter flights from South Africa’s international airports to the airstrips of a range of private game reserves in Southern Africa. Guests enjoy the adventure and the privilege of setting down in the heart of the African wilderness with all the logistics, such as allowable luggage for lightweight aircrafts, seamlessly taken care of.
Revel in the finest Luxury Safari Lodge accommodation (Etosha)
We offer you world-class safari lodges set in outstanding Big 5 private game reserves that also provide stylish African-inspired décor, breath-taking views; and spacious, private indoor and outdoor accommodations. With fine attention to detail and a warm smile, Southern Africa’s top safari lodges cater for your guests’ every need.
Enjoy sumptuous breakfasts, lunches & afternoon ‘High Teas’ (Etosha)
Day time meals, including elegant colonial era ‘high teas’ are seamlessly blended into the game-viewing schedule. Your guests can expect outstanding, freshly prepared cuisine served in picturesque settings, whether that is breakfast on a game deck overlooking a waterhole or a champagne lunch set out in the bush in a dry riverbed.
Dine under the dazzling African night-sky (Etosha)
Dining out under the starry African sky is a fantastic part of the safari experience. Dinners in traditional-style African boma’s are characterized by roaring fires and delicious meats, including game, cooked over the blazing coals and accompanied by the finest South Africa wines. These occasions are often enhanced by traditional song, dance and story-telling.
Encounter the Wild on morning and afternoon game drives (Etosha)
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the finest game-viewing opportunities. While on safari your guests will be encouraged to rise at dawn and head out with their rangers, full of anticipation for what wonders they may encounter. Knowledgeable and experienced rangers and trackers ensure the safety of guests and also enhance their game and bird-watching experiences by enthusiastically sharing their wealth of expertise about the magnificent and unforgettable fauna and flora of Southern Africa.
Set out on intrepid guided bush walks and game-tracking activities (Etosha)
Many of safari lodges offer guests guided bush walks that enable them to get up close and personal with Africa’s big and small game. Under the close guidance of experienced rangers and trackers they set out on foot to immerse themselves in the detailed beauty of the wilderness. At some lodges, game-tracking activities that serve as exciting team-building experiences can be added to your program.
Celebrate with Boma, Bush or Airstrip gala dinners (Etosha)
Luxury safari lodges offer a choice of inspiring venues to host outstanding and creative gala dinner events. These celebrations may be held at the Lodge’s boma, at a boma in the bush or even on Reserve’s airstrip. Surrounded by African wilderness and overhung by a legion of stars, a gala dinner while on safari will never be forgotten.
Where to Stay
Andersson’s Camp, Etosha National Park
This luxury safari camp is named after the Swedish explorer who came across Etosha Pan, the heart of Namibia’s outstanding Etosha National Park, in 1851. Set against the backdrop of the Ondundozonanandana Mountains, the private, en-suite luxury safari tents nestle in the secluded, picturesque Mopane woodlands with stunning views from private decks. Andersson's Camp is a model of eco-sensitive lodging and provides an authentic, safe and down-to-earth experience for smaller incentive groups.
More informationCamp Kipwe, Damaraland
Camp Kipwe offers a refreshing perspective on traditional safari life. The camp is an organic extension of the expansive surrounding Haub River landscape. Nestled amongst impressive boulders the exclusive rooms with large private viewing decks incorporate stone, red basalt rocks and mopane branches. Guests will enjoy the cool thatched dining room, lounge and bar. There’s an outside boma area for star-lit fire-cooked meals. There’s plunge pool built into the rocks that boasts a 360 degrees of breath-taking beauty.
More informationOngava Lodge, Ongava Game Reserve, Etosha
Ongava Lodge is situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in the privately owned Ongava Game Reserve. This luxury safari lodge provides 5-star quality accommodation and cuisine, as well as some the finest game-viewing in Africa. Guests are accommodated in brick, rock and thatch chalets with en-suite facilities. Meals are served either in the main dining area under thatch with a view over the camp's water hole, or on the dining deck under the stars.
More informationOnguma Bush Camp, Onguma Game Reserve, Etosha
Situated on the eastern side of Etosha, bordering Fisher's Pan and close to Etosha’s Namutoni Gate, the 34 000-hectare Onguma Game Reserve provides the opportunity of experiencing Africa in all her beauty and diversity. Guests are accommodated in comfortable en-suite rooms with stunning waterhole and pool views. Guests can relax around the sparkling swimming pool and in the cool thatched bar. The lounge and dining area overlook the extensive waterhole visited by a variety of game.
More informationEtosha Safari Camp, Etosha National Park
Etosha Safari Camp is conveniently situated just 10 kilometres from world-renowned Etosha National Park. Perched on a small hill, each uniquely designed en-suite safari-bungalow promises comfort at all times. Beds are covered with spacious mosquito nets and the gauzed windows provide optimal air circulation. Meals are served in a rustic farm style restaurant at the foot of the hill and here guests can also refresh themselves in the swimming pool or enjoy one of the walking trails that surround the camp.
More informationKempinski Mokuti Lodge, Etosha National Park
The thrill of adventure and the awe of unique surroundings, envelop your guest from the moment they enter Kempinski Mokuti Lodge. They can expect lavish hospitality, exhilarating recreational activities, peace and tranquility. The lodge, with its stunning swimming pool and flood-lit bush tennis courts also flaunts the distinctive Kempinski standard of luxury. All rooms combine European Luxury with traditional African charm. Offering African cuisine infused by international flavors, there is a choice of extraordinary restaurants and bars.
What to expect
When to go on Safari
Visitors are often advised to go on a Southern African Safari during the Winter season when the bush is dry and game-viewing is easier. However, each season brings its own delights:
Hot, Wet Season
The summer rains bring swollen rivers, waterfalls and a green breath over the Southern African bushveld. Though exceptionally beautiful, game-viewing can be somewhat more challenging during these months because the vegetation is lusher and denser than in winter. The abundance of water means that the herds and predators also range more widely as they are not so dependant on waterholes. Some advantages of visiting during this season include memorable sightings of new-born mammals and opportunities to spot many of the summer migrant birds. Although you will be preparing for the African heat, it is important to also pack light-weight long-sleeved tops, trousers and socks for protection against mosquito bites. Sun hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are all advisable, as well as a light-weight jacket for evenings and early mornings.
Cool, Dry Season
The winter months are invariably the best for game-watching and wildlife photography, as the veld is sparse, grass levels are low and animals tend to congregate around waterholes, dams and rivers. Another advantage of visiting over the winter months is less risk of malaria infection. Winter mornings and nights can get very chilly, with average lows around 6°C in June and July, so be sure to pack accordingly for your game drives. You will still need to pack sun hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Malaria Protection
Visitors to Namibia’s Etosha National Park are advised to consult their doctors as to the latest malaria prevention. Your Grosvenor Tours Incentives Specialist can recommend malaria-free Safaris in South Africa if your guests don’t want to take any risk.
Understanding Malaria
Malaria is a serious parasitic infection. The female Anopheles mosquito is the only mosquito to carry the parasite that causes malaria. The parasite can be transferred to humans through the bite of the Anopheles mosquito. The Anopheles mosquito is a small, silent mosquito and its bite can go unnoticed as it does not cause a typical mosquito bite reaction. Malaria is curable with the correct drug treatment. Malaria can be prevented by the use of prophylactic drugs and by reducing the risks of being bitten by the Anopheles mosquito. In Africa, mosquitos are more common in the summer months and the risk of being bitten in most malaria areas is somewhat reduced during the winter.
Malaria Prevention
Consult a doctor well ahead of travelling to a malaria-risk area. The use of anti-malarial medication is advised. It is essential to take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your medical practitioner. Mosquitos are most active in the early evening, through the night into the early morning. During these times, when you are in a malaria-risk area, you need to wear clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible, such as long trousers, long-sleeved tops and socks. Avoid exposing your arms, legs, ankles and feet. Apply a good insect repellent to exposed skin every 4 to 6 hours. Where provided, make use of insect screens over windows and doors. Avoid leaving doors and windows open in the evenings and at night. Where provided, use mosquito nets over your bed when sleeping. Where provided, sleep with a fan on over your bed as the moving air makes it difficult for a mosquito to land on you.
A typical day on Safari
While the day’s programme may differ somewhat from lodge to lodge, there’s a general rhythm to being on safari in order to optimise guests’ game-viewing opportunities.
Mornings
Guests are encouraged to wake at dawn and be ready to get out early with their rangers when the animals and birds are most active. They may start the day with tea, coffee and traditional rusks, and enjoy a full breakfast or brunch later when the heat has started to set in.
Midday
Guests can enjoy relaxing around the pool, game-watching from the lodge’s decks or any other activities the lodge has to offer before and after a leisurely, delicious lunch. The midday heat in the bush provides the perfect excuse for a wonderful siesta.
Afternoons and evenings
Most lodges serve ‘high tea’ so that guests can refresh themselves before setting out for their next exhilarating game experience, which may be an open-vehicle game drive, a boat cruise or a guided walk. Sundowners may be served out in the bush at a spectacular viewpoint or back at the game-watching deck of the lodge. Dinners in the bush are always fine affairs with sumptuous food, excellent wine and stunning entertainment in stunning venues.
What to Do
Take a private charter flight direct to the lodge airstrip (Etosha)
We will arrange exclusive charter flights from South Africa’s international airports to the airstrips of a range of private game reserves in Southern Africa. Guests enjoy the adventure and the privilege of setting down in the heart of the African wilderness with all the logistics, such as allowable luggage for lightweight aircrafts, seamlessly taken care of.
Revel in the finest Luxury Safari Lodge accommodation (Etosha)
We offer you world-class safari lodges set in outstanding Big 5 private game reserves that also provide stylish African-inspired décor, breath-taking views; and spacious, private indoor and outdoor accommodations. With fine attention to detail and a warm smile, Southern Africa’s top safari lodges cater for your guests’ every need.
Enjoy sumptuous breakfasts, lunches & afternoon ‘High Teas’ (Etosha)
Day time meals, including elegant colonial era ‘high teas’ are seamlessly blended into the game-viewing schedule. Your guests can expect outstanding, freshly prepared cuisine served in picturesque settings, whether that is breakfast on a game deck overlooking a waterhole or a champagne lunch set out in the bush in a dry riverbed.
Dine under the dazzling African night-sky (Etosha)
Dining out under the starry African sky is a fantastic part of the safari experience. Dinners in traditional-style African boma’s are characterized by roaring fires and delicious meats, including game, cooked over the blazing coals and accompanied by the finest South Africa wines. These occasions are often enhanced by traditional song, dance and story-telling.
Encounter the Wild on morning and afternoon game drives (Etosha)
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the finest game-viewing opportunities. While on safari your guests will be encouraged to rise at dawn and head out with their rangers, full of anticipation for what wonders they may encounter. Knowledgeable and experienced rangers and trackers ensure the safety of guests and also enhance their game and bird-watching experiences by enthusiastically sharing their wealth of expertise about the magnificent and unforgettable fauna and flora of Southern Africa.
Set out on intrepid guided bush walks and game-tracking activities (Etosha)
Many of safari lodges offer guests guided bush walks that enable them to get up close and personal with Africa’s big and small game. Under the close guidance of experienced rangers and trackers they set out on foot to immerse themselves in the detailed beauty of the wilderness. At some lodges, game-tracking activities that serve as exciting team-building experiences can be added to your program.
Celebrate with Boma, Bush or Airstrip gala dinners (Etosha)
Luxury safari lodges offer a choice of inspiring venues to host outstanding and creative gala dinner events. These celebrations may be held at the Lodge’s boma, at a boma in the bush or even on Reserve’s airstrip. Surrounded by African wilderness and overhung by a legion of stars, a gala dinner while on safari will never be forgotten.
Where to Stay
Andersson’s Camp, Etosha National Park
This luxury safari camp is named after the Swedish explorer who came across Etosha Pan, the heart of Namibia’s outstanding Etosha National Park, in 1851. Set against the backdrop of the Ondundozonanandana Mountains, the private, en-suite luxury safari tents nestle in the secluded, picturesque Mopane woodlands with stunning views from private decks. Andersson's Camp is a model of eco-sensitive lodging and provides an authentic, safe and down-to-earth experience for smaller incentive groups.
More informationCamp Kipwe, Damaraland
Camp Kipwe offers a refreshing perspective on traditional safari life. The camp is an organic extension of the expansive surrounding Haub River landscape. Nestled amongst impressive boulders the exclusive rooms with large private viewing decks incorporate stone, red basalt rocks and mopane branches. Guests will enjoy the cool thatched dining room, lounge and bar. There’s an outside boma area for star-lit fire-cooked meals. There’s plunge pool built into the rocks that boasts a 360 degrees of breath-taking beauty.
More informationOngava Lodge, Ongava Game Reserve, Etosha
Ongava Lodge is situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in the privately owned Ongava Game Reserve. This luxury safari lodge provides 5-star quality accommodation and cuisine, as well as some the finest game-viewing in Africa. Guests are accommodated in brick, rock and thatch chalets with en-suite facilities. Meals are served either in the main dining area under thatch with a view over the camp's water hole, or on the dining deck under the stars.
More informationOnguma Bush Camp, Onguma Game Reserve, Etosha
Situated on the eastern side of Etosha, bordering Fisher's Pan and close to Etosha’s Namutoni Gate, the 34 000-hectare Onguma Game Reserve provides the opportunity of experiencing Africa in all her beauty and diversity. Guests are accommodated in comfortable en-suite rooms with stunning waterhole and pool views. Guests can relax around the sparkling swimming pool and in the cool thatched bar. The lounge and dining area overlook the extensive waterhole visited by a variety of game.
More informationEtosha Safari Camp, Etosha National Park
Etosha Safari Camp is conveniently situated just 10 kilometres from world-renowned Etosha National Park. Perched on a small hill, each uniquely designed en-suite safari-bungalow promises comfort at all times. Beds are covered with spacious mosquito nets and the gauzed windows provide optimal air circulation. Meals are served in a rustic farm style restaurant at the foot of the hill and here guests can also refresh themselves in the swimming pool or enjoy one of the walking trails that surround the camp.
More informationKempinski Mokuti Lodge, Etosha National Park
The thrill of adventure and the awe of unique surroundings, envelop your guest from the moment they enter Kempinski Mokuti Lodge. They can expect lavish hospitality, exhilarating recreational activities, peace and tranquility. The lodge, with its stunning swimming pool and flood-lit bush tennis courts also flaunts the distinctive Kempinski standard of luxury. All rooms combine European Luxury with traditional African charm. Offering African cuisine infused by international flavors, there is a choice of extraordinary restaurants and bars.
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