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Etosha National Park zebra and giraffe
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About Namibia National Parks National Parks

Namibia’s national parks offer an extraordinary journey through some of Africa’s most captivating landscapes and unique wildlife habitats. From the otherworldly deserts of Namib-Naukluft National Park to the rugged wilderness of Etosha National Park, each park presents a distinct and unforgettable wilderness experience.

Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa, boasts towering sand dunes, vast salt pans, and breathtaking desert landscapes, including the iconic Sossusvlei. Etosha National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its expansive salt pan and abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos.

Skeleton Coast National Park, with its stark coastline and shipwrecks, offers a glimpse into Namibia’s maritime history and unique desert-adapted wildlife. These national parks not only safeguard Namibia’s natural heritage but also provide opportunities for eco-tourism, adventure, and cultural experiences, making them essential destinations for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic African wilderness adventures.

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Namibia National Parks's National Parks

Bwabwata National Park elephants

Bwabwata National Park

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Dorob National Park overview landscape

Dorob National Park

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Etosha National Park zebra and giraffe

Etosha National Park

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Khaudum National Park herd of elephants

Khaudum National Park

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Mudumu National Park elephants in the river

Mudumu National Park

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Namib Naukluft National Park

Namib Naukluft National Park

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Skeleton Coast National Park

Skeleton Coast National Park

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Waterberg Plateau National Park ridge with blue sky

Waterberg Plateau National Park

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FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are there in Namibia?

Namibia is home to a total of 22 national parks. These parks encompass a diverse range of landscapes, including deserts, savannahs, mountains, and coastal areas, and protect a wealth of biodiversity, including iconic wildlife species such as elephants, lions, rhinos, and zebras.

The national parks of Namibia offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, making them popular destinations for tourists and nature enthusiasts visiting the country.

2. What is the largest national park in Namibia?

The largest national park in Namibia is the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Covering an area of approximately 49,768 square kilometers (about 19,216 square miles), Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa.

It is located in the central and western parts of Namibia and encompasses a variety of desert landscapes, including the iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert and the rugged mountains of the Naukluft Range.

Namib-Naukluft National Park is renowned for its stunning scenery, unique flora and fauna, and exceptional biodiversity. It offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and scenic drives, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes and wilderness areas of the Namib Desert and Naukluft Mountains.

3. What is the smallest national park in Namibia?

The smallest national park in Namibia is the Daan Viljoen Game Park. Covering an area of approximately 4,000 hectares (about 15 square miles), Daan Viljoen Game Park is located just outside the capital city of Windhoek.

Despite its small size, the park is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Daan Viljoen Game Park is home to a variety of antelope species, as well as smaller mammals such as warthogs, jackals, and mongooses.

The park also boasts diverse birdlife, including numerous species of raptors, waterbirds, and songbirds. With its proximity to Windhoek, Daan Viljoen Game Park provides a convenient escape into nature for those seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

4. What was the first national park in Namibia?

The first national park in Namibia is Etosha National Park. Established in 1907, Etosha National Park is one of the oldest conservation areas in Namibia and Africa as a whole.

The park was initially proclaimed as the Etosha Game Reserve by the German colonial administration, and it was later expanded and upgraded to national park status after Namibia gained independence.

Etosha National Park is located in the northwestern part of Namibia and covers an area of approximately 22,270 square kilometers (8,600 square miles). It is renowned for its expansive salt pan, which dominates the park’s landscape, and its abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species.

Etosha National Park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, with numerous waterholes attracting wildlife during the dry season, making it a popular destination for safari enthusiasts and tourists visiting Namibia.