Etosha First Safari Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist for Your First Etosha Safari

Use this checklist to ensure nothing important is overlooked before you arrive at the park gate. Etosha is generally forgiving of minor oversights, but some items — fuel, malaria prophylaxis, accommodation bookings — can’t be recovered on the day.

Weeks Before Departure

• ☐ NWR accommodation booked (book 3–9 months ahead for peak season)
• ☐ Vehicle rental confirmed (2WD adequate dry season; high clearance preferred)
• ☐ Travel insurance arranged (include medical evacuation coverage)
• ☐ See travel health clinic — malaria prophylaxis prescription
• ☐ Binoculars sourced (buy, borrow or hire — 8×42 minimum)
• ☐ Park map downloaded (or plan to buy at gate)
• ☐ Maps.me app installed with Namibia offline map downloaded

Days Before

• ☐ Print NWR booking confirmation (gates check this)
• ☐ Print NWR booking reference number for each camp
• ☐ Camera batteries charged; memory cards formatted
• ☐ Power bank charged
• ☐ Shopping done in Windhoek for full trip supplies
• ☐ Cooler box packed with ice and supplies
• ☐ Check tyre condition and pressure on rental vehicle
• ☐ Confirm spare tyre is present and in good condition

Day of Entry

• ☐ Fill tank COMPLETELY in Outjo (Anderson Gate) or Tsumeb (Von Lindequist Gate)
• ☐ Fill 20L jerry can if available
• ☐ Pack cooler box, snacks, water for full day
• ☐ Cash and card for gate fees (NAD 180/adult/day + NAD 10/vehicle)
• ☐ NWR booking confirmation ready to show at gate
• ☐ Start malaria tablets as prescribed (timing varies)

At Camp Reception (Day 1)

• ☐ Ask for today’s sightings board update
• ☐ Book NWR night drive (limited spaces — book immediately)
• ☐ Note exact gate closing time for tonight and tomorrow
• ☐ Save NWR emergency number in your phone
• ☐ Ask about current road closures

Every Morning

• ☐ Check sightings board at reception
• ☐ Confirm gate times for the day
• ☐ Fill water bottles before leaving camp
• ☐ Calculate latest possible return time from your planned route

Never Forget

• Keep NWR entry receipts accessible throughout stay
• Never leave your vehicle except in designated areas
• Always be back at camp before gate closing time
• No flash photography at floodlit waterholes