In 1851 John Andersson and Francis Galton were the first Europeans to arrive by wagon in Namutoni, one of the parks inside Etosha. At that time Etosha didn’t attract the interest of tourists or conservationists until after the 20th century, when the German South-West African Governor Dr F von Lindequist became concerned over diminishing animal numbers.

Over 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 16 reptiles and amphibians as well as countless insects are protected by the Park. Today Etosha had been increasing in sq km up to 23,175. The most widespread vegetation is mopane woodlands, stretches of savanna dominated by the umbrella-thorn (Acacia torilis) and other trees.

Visitors may observe elephants, giraffes, Burchells zebras, springboks, red hartebeests, blue wildebeest, gemsboks, elands, kudus, roans, ostriches, jackals, hyenas, lions and sometimes even leopards and cheetahs depending on the season. Among endangered species is the black rhino seen at Okaukeujo and the black-faced impala around Namutoni. Bird watching is spectacular especially when it is hot. During winter season the wildlife normally cluster around the water holes while in summer conditions animals disperse and look for shelter in the bush.

In the Park you will find the Okaukeujo, Halali and Namutoni Rest Camps. Etosha National Park is easily accessible from the iGowati Lodge either with own transport or a daily 4x4 trip by iGowati Lodge.