namibia

Namibia Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Namibia

Namibia, a land of striking contrasts, is home to a diverse range of wildlife that thrives in its unique ecosystems. From the vast expanse of the Namib Desert to the rugged terrain of Damaraland and the lush banks of the Okavango River, Namibia offers a haven for a variety of fascinating animal species.

Embark on a journey to discover the incredible wildlife of Namibia. Encounter the majestic African elephant, a symbol of strength and wisdom, as it roams the arid landscapes in search of water and sustenance. Witness the graceful movements of the cheetah, the fastest land animal on Earth, as it hunts across the open plains of Etosha National Park. And don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the captivating sight of the endangered black rhinoceros, a resilient species that has found refuge in the remote corners of Namibia. Join us as we explore the captivating world of animals that call Namibia home.

Mammals of Namibia

In the diverse and arid landscapes of Namibia, one can encounter a remarkable array of mammals that have adapted to thrive in this environment. The majestic African elephant roams the dry riverbeds and savannas, while the endangered black rhinoceros finds refuge in the bushveld. The elusive leopard, with its striking spotted coat, stealthily navigates the rocky outcrops. In the semi-desert regions, the peculiar-looking oryx, with its long, straight horns, stands resilient against the harsh climate. The sociable meerkat colonies enliven the Kalahari with their vigilant foraging. Namibia's Etosha National Park is a sanctuary for these and many other species, including the regal lion and the towering giraffe, offering visitors a glimpse into the heart of Africa's wildlife.

Birds of Namibia

Namibia, a haven for avian enthusiasts, boasts a remarkable array of bird species, including the vividly colored Lilac-breasted Roller, which is often spotted perched on acacia branches scanning for insects. The country's diverse habitats, from the arid Namib Desert to the lush Caprivi Strip, support a variety of birds like the endemic Dune Lark, adapted to the desert environment, and the striking Crimson-breasted Shrike, known locally as the 'German Flag' due to its bold black, red, and white plumage. In the Etosha National Park, one might catch a glimpse of the sociable weavers constructing their massive communal nests, a marvel of avian architecture, or the elegant Blue Crane, Namibia's national bird, gracefully foraging in the grasslands.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Namibia

  • Etosha National Park, situated in the northwestern part of Namibia, is a vast salt pan surrounded by grasslands and savannah. It is a sanctuary for some of Africa's most iconic wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos (both black and white species), giraffes, and numerous species of antelope, such as the kudu and oryx. The park's numerous waterholes provide excellent opportunities to observe animals, especially during the dry season when they congregate for water.
  • Skeleton Coast National Park, stretching from the Swakop River to the Angolan border, is a harsh but beautiful landscape where the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to Cape fur seals, particularly at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, where one of the largest colonies can be seen. The park also supports desert-adapted elephants, lions, and hyenas, as well as a variety of birdlife, including the endemic Damara tern.
  • Namib-Naukluft National Park, encompassing part of the Namib Desert and the Naukluft mountain range, is the largest conservation area in Namibia. This park is famous for the Sossusvlei dunes and the Deadvlei clay pan, but it is also home to unique desert wildlife such as the oryx, springbok, and Hartmann's mountain zebra. The elusive desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos roam the more remote areas of the park.
  • Bwabwata National Park, located in the Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip), is a lush area with riverine forests, floodplains, and wetlands. It is a haven for water-loving animals such as hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of antelope species, including the red lechwe and sable. The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded, including the African fish eagle and the rare Pel's fishing owl.
  • Khaudum National Park, in the northeastern corner of Namibia, is a remote and wild area characterized by dense mopane woodlands and dry riverbeds. This park is less frequented by tourists, offering a more rugged safari experience. It is home to African wild dogs, roan antelope, and large herds of elephants. Predators such as lions and spotted hyenas are also present, though they can be more challenging to spot due to the dense vegetation.

Where to next? Discover country icon Angola, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder