Question 1

Which campsites can you find in Etosha National Park?

Accepted Answer

There are several official campsites within the park, each with its own illuminated waterhole where you can spot wildlife in the evening. The best known are  Okaukuejo  (known for its elephants) and  Halali ( a beautifully situated waterhole where black rhinos and leopards regularly come to drink in the evening). Other options in the park include  Namutoni (eastern side)  and  Olifantsrus (western side) .

Question 2

Do the campsites in Etosha have a shop and restaurant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the larger campsites have facilities, but prices are very high and the quality is unfortunately mediocre. The selection in the shops is often very limited. We therefore recommend that you  do your main shopping before entering Etosha  (for example, in larger towns such as Tsumeb, Outjo or Otjiwarongo).

Question 3

What is the 'Vet Fence' (Veterinary Control Fence)?

Accepted Answer

The  Vet Fence  (often commonly known as the  fat fence  ) is a veterinary control line that runs across Namibia. This boundary was established by the government to control the spread of  foot-and-mouth disease  and prevent diseases from passing from wildlife to livestock belonging to commercial farmers.

Question 4

Do I need to take the 'Vet Fence' into account when entering Etosha?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. At strategic points around and inside the park, officials strictly check which foodstuffs you are carrying. In general, you may  not transport raw (red) meat or unpasteurised dairy products  from north to south. So do not buy excessively large quantities of fresh meat beforehand. If you are carrying something that is officially not permitted through the checkpoint, there is a chance you will have to surrender it if it is discovered.

Question 5

What is the best way to spot wildlife in Etosha?

Accepted Answer

The best strategy is simply to drive from waterhole to waterhole and wait patiently there. Because the park is so dry, the animals are forced to come to these drinking places. Especially during the dry winter months (June to October), you sometimes do not need to move for hours to watch the complete  Big Five  pass by.

Question 6

Why is staying at Onguma just outside the park recommended?

Accepted Answer

The campsites in Etosha itself can feel very busy and touristy. Onguma is located directly on the eastern border of the park and offers a much quieter, more exclusive experience. The great advantage for campers staying at the Onguma Campsites is that you can use the beautiful, luxurious facilities at Onguma Lodge free of charge, including the swimming pool and the atmospheric restaurant overlooking its own waterhole.