Plan Your Visit
Etosha Route Brief Template (Copy/Paste)
Etosha Route Brief Template: Copy and Customise
Use this template to create a practical route brief before entering Etosha. A brief keeps you focused, helps you communicate your plan to a co-driver or partner, and gives you a reference when making real-time decisions in the field.
How to Use This Template
Fill in each section before departure. Refer to it each morning in camp. Adjust as conditions change — a good brief is a living document, not a rigid plan.
Route Brief Template
Trip Overview
- Travel dates: _______________
- Entry gate: _______________
- Exit gate: _______________
- Camp sequence: Night 1: ___ | Night 2: ___ | Night 3: ___ | Night 4: ___
- Total nights in park: ___
Primary Wildlife Goals
List 3 species or experiences that matter most:
- _______________
- _______________
- _______________
Priority Waterholes by Camp
| Camp | Must-Visit Holes | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Camp 1 (___) | ||
| Camp 2 (___) | ||
| Camp 3 (___) |
Gate Times This Month
- Gate opens: ___ (check nwr.com.na for current month)
- Gate closes: ___
- Latest departure from furthest waterhole: ___ (gate closing minus 30–45 min buffer)
Daily Drive Structure
- Wake time: 05:30 (or earlier if gate opens at 06:00)
- Leave camp: 05:55 (at gate opening)
- Morning session: 06:00–09:30
- Midday rest: 10:00–14:00
- Afternoon session: 14:30–17:00 (adjust for gate closing)
- Back at camp: 30 min before gate closing
Self-Catering Notes
- Bought in Outjo/Tsumeb: _______________
- Camp shop needed for: _______________
- Fuel plan: Fill at ___ camp on arrival; check again before transit day
Emergency Contacts
- Okaukuejo reception: _______________
- Vehicle hire breakdown: _______________
- MedRescue: +264 61 230 505
- Travel insurance emergency line: _______________
Pre-Built Versions by Camp Sequence
3-Night Standard Route Brief (Anderson Gate entry)
- Entry: Anderson Gate | Exit: Von Lindequist
- Night 1: Okaukuejo | Night 2: Halali | Night 3: Namutoni
- Priority holes: Salvadora (Day 1), Kapupuhedi/Goas (Day 2), Fischer’s Pan/Chudop (Day 3)
- Must-do: Okaukuejo night waterhole (Night 1); Halali koppie waterhole (Night 2)
4-Night Route Brief
- Night 1–2: Okaukuejo | Night 3: Halali | Night 4: Namutoni
- Day 2 Okaukuejo: revisit best performers from Day 1; extended Salvadora session
- Priority: Use Day 2 for no-pressure revisits; this is your slack day
Next decision steps
Quick decision FAQ
Can this be adapted to my exact dates and style?
Yes, these are structured planning frameworks and should be tailored to your constraints.
Do these frameworks improve inquiry quality?
Yes. Better inputs create faster and more accurate route recommendations.
Can I request a no-obligation custom route?
Yes. You can review trade-offs before any booking decision.
Let us help you plan the perfect Etosha safari — self-drive or guided, any budget.
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