Spot the leopard!

Beware - Etosha National Park hides elusive wildlife in plain sight! Photo: Tim “Nighthawk Smith”, Swakopmund’s Lycaon Photography

This spectacular photo is the work of Tim “Nighthawk Smith” of Swakopmund’s Lycaon Photography, taken in May 2023.

Etosha National Park, a major tourist attraction within the 067-valley, spans over 22,000 square kilometers and is well-known for its vast salt pan, which can even be seen from space.

Etosha, meaning "Great White Place" in the Oshindonga language, gets its name from the expansive Etosha Pan, which covers nearly a quarter of the park. Once a prehistoric lake, the pan transforms into a paradise when it receives an inflow of water, attracting flamingos and other water birds.

The area was first home to tribes such as the Hai||om San people. In 1907, during German colonial rule, Etosha was declared a game reserve—making it one of the oldest conservation areas in the world. Lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras, and various antelope can all be seen here. It is also regarded as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 340 bird species, including vibrant flamingos and raptors.

Etosha National Park is a beacon of wildlife conservation efforts. The park plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species, such as the highly threatened black rhino population. Namibia’s commitment to conservation has made Etosha a global leader in sustainable wildlife management.