Let’s just be real and say it: It’s extremely difficult to choose the ten best waterholes in Etosha National Park. There are multiple factors that make a waterhole great – but each person’s encounter there could be different.
Don’t forget, animals move around constantly. So choosing a waterhole in general, let alone the best ones – that’s a pretty challenging task! Lucky for you, here’s a list of our Top Waterholes – based on ease of access, popularity, and the relative chance of spotting game.
Thanks for the clarification! Here’s the revised blog post with all waterhole titles intact and presented in a more detailed and comprehensive way:
Nebrownii Waterhole
Close to Okaukuejo, Nebrownii makes an unforgettable first impression on travelers entering Etosha National Park. This waterhole is a prime spot for wildlife viewing due to its strategic location and abundance of game. Throughout the day, a variety of animals, including large herds of zebra, springbok, and impala, gather here, providing excellent photo opportunities. It’s not uncommon to witness elephants lumbering in for a drink, sharing the water with other species.
Nebrownii’s accessibility makes it a favorite for self-drive safari enthusiasts, being the first major waterhole encountered after leaving Okaukuejo. Since it is surrounded by open plains, visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of approaching wildlife from a distance. Predators like lions are often seen here, particularly in the early mornings, making it an ideal spot for those seeking thrilling encounters.
Gemsbokvlakte Waterhole
The name Gemsbokvlakte, which translates to “plains of the oryx,” hints at the frequent sightings of these magnificent antelopes at this waterhole. This artificial waterhole, powered by a solar pump, provides a constant water supply, making it a reliable wildlife magnet, especially during the dry season.
With its vast open plains, Gemsbokvlakte is a fantastic location for spotting large herds of oryx, zebra, and wildebeest, often gathering in impressive numbers. The flat, open landscape offers breathtaking sunset views, making it an excellent spot for photographers looking to capture Etosha’s golden light.
Okaukuejo Waterhole
Okaukuejo Waterhole is one of the most famous in Etosha National Park and is located within the bustling Okaukuejo Camp. What makes it unique is the floodlit viewing area, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal wildlife activity in an extraordinary setting.
Elephants, black rhinos, and lions frequently visit Okaukuejo, providing unforgettable sightings throughout the day and night. The west-facing seating area offers the perfect vantage point for watching the sun set over the waterhole, painting the landscape in rich hues. Nighttime visits often bring thrilling encounters with predators stalking their prey, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Accommodation near Okaukuejo
Staying near Okaukuejo allows for easy access to this iconic waterhole. Accommodation options include:
Booking.comHalali Waterhole (Moringa Waterhole)
Nestled at the foot of a small hill within Halali Camp, the Moringa Waterhole provides visitors with an elevated view over the water. Surrounded by dense bush, it offers a more secluded and intimate wildlife experience compared to some of the busier waterholes in the park.
One of the highlights of Halali Waterhole is the frequent sightings of white rhinos, which often visit in the late afternoon and evening. The area is also a known hotspot for leopards, thanks to the dense vegetation that provides excellent cover for these elusive predators.
Halali’s relaxed ambiance and central location in the park make it an ideal stopover for travelers looking to enjoy wildlife in a tranquil setting.
Salvadora Waterhole
Salvadora Waterhole, named after the Salvadora persica bush, is located near the salt pan and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This waterhole is a known favorite for cheetahs, which use the open terrain to their advantage when hunting.
Lions are also a regular sighting at Salvadora, often resting in the shade, waiting for their next meal. The combination of predator activity and open views makes Salvadora a must-visit for those eager to spot big cats in action.
Rietfontein Waterhole
Steeped in history, Rietfontein Waterhole played an important role in the Dorsland Trek of the 19th century, providing vital water to early explorers. Today, it remains a key water source for wildlife, attracting a diverse array of animals.
Elephants, giraffes, and antelopes can often be seen drinking peacefully at Rietfontein. In the late afternoon, black rhinos sometimes make an appearance, adding to the waterhole’s appeal.
Goas Waterhole
Hidden within Etosha’s mopane woodlands, Goas Waterhole is a lush oasis that attracts both herbivores and predators. The dense vegetation provides ample cover for lions and hyenas, which often ambush prey drawn to the water.
Goas is particularly favored by birdwatchers, with a variety of species frequenting the area, making it one of the top spots in Etosha for avian enthusiasts.
Chudop Waterhole
Located near Namutoni Camp, Chudop Waterhole features a natural spring that pushes water to the surface, creating an inviting spot for a variety of animals. The slight incline around the waterhole makes it an excellent location for observing the interactions between wildlife.
Eland, the largest antelope species, are a common sight here, along with spotted hyenas and sometimes even leopards lurking nearby. Chudop is particularly active in the early mornings and late afternoons, providing exciting encounters for visitors.
Accommodation near Namutoni
For those exploring the eastern side of the park, staying near Namutoni offers convenient access to Chudop and other nearby waterholes. Options include:
Booking.comKlein Namutoni Waterhole
Klein Namutoni Waterhole, located near the Namutoni camp, is known for its regular giraffe and elephant visitors. This natural spring attracts a variety of game, including spotted hyena, Damara dik-dik, red hartebeest, and black-faced impala.
Due to its close proximity to Namutoni, Klein Namutoni is an excellent spot for a quick wildlife viewing session before returning to camp for the night.
Tsumcor Waterhole
A man-made waterhole, Tsumcor lies between Andoni Plain and Namutoni, making it an essential stop for elephants, eland, and other plains game. It’s especially popular in the late afternoon when large herds gather to quench their thirst.
Klein Okevi Waterhole
Although small, Klein Okevi is a busy waterhole that sees a steady stream of animals throughout the day. It is a reliable spot for black rhino sightings in the late afternoon, as well as frequent visits from zebras, kudu, and springbok.
Visiting these waterholes in Etosha National Park offers a glimpse into Namibia’s incredible wildlife. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a first-time visitor, or a seasoned safari enthusiast, each waterhole provides a unique and unforgettable experience.