Where to Spot Oryxes in Namibia?

With a population of 373,000 scattered across the landscape, you are bound to encounter oryxes at every turn in Namibia. In fact, they are so prevalent in the Southern African country that you might just encounter them on the roadside shortly after your arrival. Yet, despite their abundance, few sights can rival the image of an oryx standing gracefully on the dunes of Sossusvlei with the sun ascending in the backdrop.

2. Kudu is a magnificent creature, embodying the spirit of the wild. Its graceful movements and striking appearance invite exploration and wonder. Encountering this animal in its natural habitat is an experience that stirs the soul and ignites a sense of discovery.
Afrikaans Name: Koedoe

Kudu in Namibia is a thrilling experience.

Kudu, often referred to as the greater kudu, ranks as the second tallest antelope in Africa, showcasing impressive long, spiral horns and flowing manes of hair that cascade from the back of their head to their tail. Even with their impressive size, kudus possess a graceful build and are celebrated for their remarkable ability to leap, effortlessly clearing fences and various obstacles in their path.

Where to Spot Kudus in Namibia?

Kudu roam freely across the vast landscapes of central and northern Namibia. They can be found abundantly on commercial farmland and in game parks throughout central Namibia, especially in Windhoek and Etosha National Park.

3. Springbok is a name that evokes a sense of excitement and exploration.
Afrikaans Name: Springbok

Two springbok in the wilds of Namibia.

The Springboks roam freely across Namibia and South Africa, so much so that South Africa has chosen this agile antelope as its national symbol. They are renowned for their elegant leaps – launching themselves into a series of impressive high jumps, reaching heights of up to 2 metres (7 feet) above the ground. These stunning beings are designed to thrive in tough and unpredictable settings, such as parched riverbeds and short-grass savannas – rendering the dry terrain of Namibia an ideal habitat for them.

Where to Spot Springboks in Namibia?

During your safari trip, you are bound to encounter the lively springbok, Namibia’s most plentiful antelope species. Vast groups of springbok roam the Namib Desert and central Namibia, especially on the farmlands near Windhoek, as well as in the stunning Etosha National Park and the breathtaking Namib-Naukluft National Park.

4. Majestic creature
Afrikaans Name: Olifant

An elephant enjoying a dust bath in the wilds of Namibia.

While the elephants of Namibia that roam the desert share the same subspecies as those found in the bush, they stand out in numerous other fascinating aspects. Desert-adapted elephants showcase unique learned behaviors and physical characteristics that enable them to navigate and survive in the challenging, dry landscape. For example, while the usual African elephant often creates chaos as it moves, those adapted to the desert are much more considerate, making sure to avoid harming the limited trees and shrubs around them. These gentle giants possess smaller bodies and longer legs, complemented by noticeably larger feet that enhance their grip on the sandy terrain. Desert-adapted elephants possess the remarkable ability to endure for days without water, a feat that savanna elephants cannot achieve.

Where to Spot Elephants in Namibia?

In the northern regions of Namibia, you can often encounter the remarkable desert-adapted elephants. Damaraland and the Skeleton Coast National Park offer some of the most thrilling opportunities for wildlife encounters.

5. Zebra
Afrikaans Name: Sebra

Zebra roaming through the wilds of Namibia.

Namibia boasts two of the four zebra species found in Africa – Hartmann’s zebra and Burchell’s zebra. To distinguish between the two, keep an eye out for subtle brown lines that run alongside the iconic black stripes – a trait that sets Burchell’s zebra apart. In the wild landscapes of Namibia, zebras roam freely, embodying resilience and grace as they navigate the challenges of their sun-soaked habitat, a favored target for the majestic lions that share their domain.

Where to Spot Zebras in Namibia?

Burchell’s zebras roam freely across the country, while Hartmann’s zebra prefers the rugged landscapes of western Etosha National Park – a place where both species can be observed together in their natural habitat. Namib-Naukluft National Park is an exciting place to encounter zebras.

6. Cape Buffalo
Afrikaans Name: Kaapse Buffel

Cape buffalo roaming through the wilds of Namibia.

The Cape buffalo, a member of the Big 5, is a highlight on every safari enthusiast’s itinerary. The robust, ox-like creature boasts a substantial size, characterized by powerful, sturdy legs and front hooves that outsize its hind ones, complemented by a massive head and a thick neck. With its impressive horns, this sociable being is a sight to behold, both awe-inspiring and formidable in presence.

Where to Spot Cape Buffalos in Namibia?

Today, Namibia’s population of Cape buffalo is sparse compared to its former abundance. Finding these African bovines in this area is quite uncommon, as nearly all sightings of Cape buffalo are focused in the Caprivi Strip – a unique geographic feature extending from Namibia’s north-eastern corner.

7. Untamed Steed
Afrikaans Name: Wild horse

Untamed equine roaming the landscapes of Namibia.

The renowned wild horses of Namibia, often referred to as the Namib Desert Horse, have been traversing the vast, dry expanses of the Namib Desert for decades. They have triumphantly navigated the challenging environment of their habitat and have emerged as one of the most coveted creatures to encounter on a safari in the Namib Desert. One of the country’s most distinctive and beloved attractions, these small, wild groups of horses are the sole representatives of their kind in Africa, thriving autonomously without human intervention. In other words, these are a few mounts you’ll want to steer clear of.

Where to Encounter Wild Horses in Namibia?

The Namib Desert is a place brimming with excitement, where wild horses roam freely in Namibia, especially near the Garub waterhole in Namib-Naukluft National Park.

8. A majestic creature of the wild.
Afrikaans Name: Leeu

A lion roaming freely in a national park in Namibia.

We frequently envision lions beneath acacia trees and across vast savanna – not scaling towering sand dunes and pursuing seals along the coastline. This is the journey of lions that thrive in the desert. Namibia stands out as a remarkable place where lions have not only learned to endure the harsh desert environment but have also flourished within it. These resilient survivors are distinct from their bush-adapted counterparts solely in their behavior. Desert-adapted lions often form smaller groups, roam over vast territories, and are capable of journeying great distances without the need for water. They also refrain from infanticide – a frequent occurrence among lions in the wild.

Where to Spot Lions in Namibia?

Etosha National Park boasts Namibia’s largest population of lions, with smaller groups also found in the Caprivi, Bushmanland, Kaokoland, and Skeleton Coast Park.

9. Cape Fur Seal
Afrikaans Name: Kaapse pelsrob

A Cape fur seal lounging on a rock along the stunning coast of Namibia.

One marine animal you’re sure to encounter during your time on Namibia’s coast is the Cape fur seal. Renowned for their remarkable swimming and hunting skills, their closed nostrils and large eyes offer a unique edge, allowing them to see both forward and to the sides, whether they are navigating through water or exploring the land. However, what truly sets them apart from genuine seals is their visible outer ears.

Where to Encounter Cape Fur Seals in Namibia?

Cape fur seals thrive along the stunning coastline of Southern Africa, where they can be spotted in great numbers in Namibia’s picturesque seaside areas, such as Swakopmund and Skeleton Coast National Park.

10. Spotted Hyena
Afrikaans Naam: Gevlekte Hiëna

Encountered a hyena pup in the wilds of Namibia.

Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed, the iconic hyena trio from Disney’s 1994 classic, The Lion King, drew inspiration from spotted hyenas, capturing their infectious laughter perfectly. Among the three living subspecies, the spotted hyenas are often called the ‘laughing hyena’. Their quick, boisterous, and sharp whoop calls resemble the sound of laughter or giggles. Brown hyenas rarely emit sounds apart from an occasional grunt or snort, whereas striped hyenas create vocalizations that resemble a chattering noise.

Where to Encounter Spotted Hyenas in Namibia?

Spotted hyenas roam freely in Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, the Caprivi Strip, Kavango, and Bushmanland regions. There’s an exciting possibility of encountering smaller populations in the Namib Desert and within Skeleton Coast National Park.

11. Giraffe
Afrikaans Name: Kameelperd

Three giraffes roaming the wilds of Namibia.

Among Africa’s most captivating wildlife encounters, giraffes stand as the tallest of all creatures, their impressive height primarily derived from their long legs – which can reach about 2 metres (7 feet) – and their extraordinarily elongated necks. This magnificent, yet mild-mannered, creature flourishes in the desert by skillfully sealing its nostrils to block out sand and dust (an incredibly useful trait in Namibia) and can endure long stretches without a sip of water.

Where to Encounter Giraffes in Namibia?

Giraffes in Namibia roam the eastern, southern, and western regions of Etosha National Park, and can also be spotted in private game reserves throughout Damaraland and Kaokoland.

12. Aardvark
Afrikaans Name: Aardvark

Aardvark roaming through the vast grasslands of Namibia.

The aardvark, known as the ‘earth pig’, is an intriguing and unusual creature with a distinctive appearance. Aside from its elongated tubular snout, which is the aardvark’s most distinctive feature, it bears little resemblance to a pig in any other aspect. Nevertheless, the aardvark is an intriguing creature that captivates those on safari because of its elusive nature – so if you catch a glimpse of one in Namibia, consider yourself fortunate!

Where to Spot Aardvarks in Namibia?

Aardvarks roam freely across Namibia, exploring diverse landscapes such as the Skeleton Coast, the enchanting Sossusvlei dunes, the rugged terrain of Kaokoland, and the captivating Damaraland, with the exception of the Namib Desert.

13. Aardwolf
Afrikaans Name: Aardwolf

Aardwolf roaming through the wilds of Namibia.

Aardwolves, translating to ‘earth wolf’, are a fascinating and unique variety of hyena. Aardwolves, unlike their hyena relatives with powerful jaws and strong teeth, are small, weak, and have a unique cone-shaped appearance. Due to its struggle to defend itself against predators, it seeks refuge in underground burrows and embraces a mostly nocturnal lifestyle.

Where to Spot Aardwolves in Namibia?

Aardwolves, though primarily active at night, can often be spotted throughout the vast savanna landscape of Namibia, with the exception of the coastal Namib Desert.

14. Bat-Eared Fox
Afrikaans Name: Vlermuisoorjakkals

Bat-eared fox roaming the wilds of Namibia.

The bat-eared fox captivates with its strikingly large ears, lending it an enchanting resemblance to a bat. While they may be smaller than jackals, bat-eared foxes belong to the same family and bear a striking resemblance to these fascinating creatures. It is intriguing to note that these creatures are monogamous mammals, typically seen in small groups that consist of a mated pair and their pups.

Where to Encounter Bat-Eared Foxes in Namibia?

Bat-eared foxes roam freely across Namibia, inhabiting almost every corner of this vibrant land. They are known to chase the rains, seeking out the vibrant buzz of insect life.

15. Ostrich
Afrikaans Name: Volstruis

Three ostriches roaming the wilds of Namibia.

These wild birds are found across Africa, but they truly excel in the challenging and arid landscapes of Namibia, where their ability to endure long stretches without water sets them apart. Ostriches are enormous birds that can not fly, yet they compensate for this with incredible speed, sprinting at over 45 mph or 72 kmph.

Where to Spot Ostriches in Namibia?

Ostriches roam the northern regions of the Namib Desert, and they can also be spotted in Etosha National Park, the Kalahari Desert, Windhoek, Swakopmund, and the Caprivi Strip.

16. Meerkat, the lively little creature, embodies the spirit of exploration and excitement in its every move.
Afrikaans Name: Suricate

A meerkat perched atop a rock.

Another inspiration behind one of The Lion King’s classic characters (Timon), meerkats are charming little rascals that will leave you ‘ooh-ing’ and ‘aah-ing’ at their cuteness. Their name means ‘ant cat’, highlighting their unique diet of ants and their remarkable foraging skills, as they dig through dry riverbeds, sift through sand, and explore crevices.

Where to Spot Meerkats in Namibia?

Meerkats inhabit the vibrant landscapes of eastern Namibia, along with the rugged terrains of Damaraland and the vast expanses of the Namib Desert.

17. African Penguin
Afrikaans Name: Brilpikkewyn

Two African penguins perched on rugged rocks along the stunning coast of Namibia.

It may seem unusual to pair the words ‘penguin’ and ‘Africa’ together, yet the African penguin is uniquely found in the southern part of the continent. Often referred to as the Cape penguin or Jackass penguin, these delightful, feathered beings are found in remote caves along the coast of Namibia.

Where to Encounter African Penguins in Namibia?

Exploring Namibia offers the exciting opportunity to encounter African penguins along the stunning coast at Roastbeef Island, Hollambird Island, Possession Island, and Penguin Island. Along with Sandwich Harbour, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Cape Cross, and Cape Fria.

18. Blue Wildebeest
Afrikaans Name: Blouwildebees

Blue wildebeest roaming the wilds of Namibia.

It’s easy to overlook the existence of wildebeest beyond their spectacular journey during the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara. They can be found in abundance across various regions of Africa, including Namibia. These large creatures may seem imposing and muscular at first glance, yet they are surprisingly nimble and can be startled quite easily.

Where to Spot Blue Wildebeest in Namibia?

Blue wildebeest roam freely in the vast landscapes of Etosha National Park in Namibia.

19. Leopard, a creature that embodies the thrill of the wild.
Afrikaans Name: Luiperd

A leopard sprawled on the earth in Namibia.

Leopards, the most elusive of the Big 5, offer a thrilling experience when encountered on safari, thanks to their rarity. But once you lay eyes on their stunning coat of black spots arranged in rosettes, observing their movements filled with grace and elegance, you’ll feel an immense gratitude for choosing to embark on this journey. These fascinating beings thrive under the cover of night, often spotted during the day lounging in the sun atop elevated spots, such as rocks and rugged ridges. The secret lies in exploring the heights during daylight and delving into the depths under the night sky.

Where to Spot Leopards in Namibia?

Leopards roam throughout the vast landscapes of Namibia. To enhance your experience, consider staying at one of the lodges that provide conservation projects, such as Okonjima Bush Camp and Okonjima Plains.

20. Thrilling Encounters with Namibia’s Endangered Wildlife & More
Cheetah
Afrikaans Name: Jagluiperd

Cheetah roaming through the wilds of Namibia.

Cheetahs are among the most endangered species in Namibia and across the globe, making encounters with them in their natural habitat truly remarkable. Cheetahs, the swiftest creatures on land, can effortlessly dash at speeds of up to 105 kmph (65 mph) and thrive in the vast expanses of open grasslands, savanna woodlands, and the edges of the desert. Their remarkable adaptation to Namibia’s challenging climate lies in their skill to extract moisture from their prey, allowing them to thrive with minimal water intake.

Where to Spot Cheetahs in Namibia?

Namibia boasts a significant share of the world’s remaining cheetah population, with thrilling sightings in Etosha National Park and Windhoek.

Oribi
Afrikaans Name: Oorbietjie

Oribi, a captivating destination in Namibia.

The oribis, small and graceful beings, are a rare sight in Namibia, often roaming the grasslands, floodplains, or lighter wetlands of this captivating land. The antelope species stands out with its elongated neck and limbs, complemented by short, upright horns.

Where to Spot Oribis in Namibia?

The Caprivi Strip in Namibia is the ultimate destination for those eager to encounter oribis in their natural habitat.

African Wild Dog
Afrikaans Name: Afrikaanse Wilde Hond

African wild dog roaming the wilds of Namibia.

African wild dogs are among the most fascinating creatures in Africa, yet they are also one of the most threatened mammal species. With their distinctive large, rounded ears, long legs, bushy tails tipped in white, and stunningly patched coats, this sociable species thrives in packs, showcasing their prowess as some of the most effective hunters in the wild. Where you spot one, you can bet that a whole pack of dogs is close by, ready to join in the fun.

Where to Encounter African Wild Dogs in Namibia?

Spotting African wild dogs is a rare thrill across Africa, but for the best chance, head to Namibia and explore Windhoek, Bushmanland, the Caprivi Strip, or Okonjima Nature Reserve.

Rhino, a creature that embodies the spirit of exploration and excitement.
Afrikaans Name: Renoster

Rhino in Namibia, a land brimming with excitement.

Both black and white rhinos roamed freely across the vast landscapes of Africa. Today, they stand at the edge of their survival. Fortunately, there is still a glimmer of hope as numerous conservation initiatives and projects are passionately dedicated to safeguarding these majestic giants for the enjoyment of future generations.

The two species of rhino are strikingly similar (no, one isn’t black and the other white), both showcasing a captivating blue-grey hue. Their lips tell a unique story, setting them apart in a world full of possibilities. Black rhinos have a unique hook-shaped lip, while white rhinos boast a broader, square-shaped lip. Another exciting way to distinguish them is by examining their foreheads. Black rhinos possess a shorter forehead, yet their heads are more protruding and smaller. White rhinos possess a more elongated and less distinct forehead, along with an extended skull.

Where to Encounter Black and White Rhinos in Namibia?

In Kaokoland and Damaraland, you can encounter over 35% of Africa’s black rhino population, while the majestic white rhinos roam freely in Etosha National Park and the Waterberg Plateau Park.

Puku
Afrikaans Name: Poekoe

A gathering of puku in Namibia.

Pukus are medium-sized, robust antelope that are often found exploring the lush marshy grasslands and vibrant riverine regions of Namibia. As a result of habitat loss, pukus now find themselves on the endangered list of the country. Luckily, there is still a good opportunity to encounter them on your journey through Namibia. In truth, you’re more apt to catch their sounds before catching a glimpse of them. Pukus are renowned for their distinctive, loud whistling calls, which they repeat in a rhythmic sequence to alert each other when something encroaches upon their territory.

Where to Spot Pukus in Namibia?

To encounter pukus in Namibia, you’ll need to venture out to the Caprivi Strip and explore the Namibian side of the Chobe River.

The Honey Badger is a fearless creature, known for its tenacity and boldness in the wild. This small but mighty animal takes on challenges with remarkable courage, often venturing into territories that others would shy away from. Its adventurous spirit and relentless nature make it a fascinating subject of study in the animal kingdom
Afrikaans Name: Ratel

A honey badger roams through the vast grasslands of Namibia.

Active primarily under the cover of night, these elusive beings present a thrilling challenge for those on safari seeking to catch a glimpse of them. But if you’re among the fortunate few to witness them, understand that you belong to an exclusive group. These captivating creatures are roughly the size of a European badger or a medium-sized dog, yet they become incredibly fierce when threatened – taking on animals as formidable as buffalo. Their elongated claws and robust, flexible skin shield them from stings and bites, while unique glands release a pungent liquid that deters any would-be predators or foes.

Where to Encounter Honey Badgers in Namibia?

Honey badgers roam freely across Namibia, even though they are often thought to be elusive during a safari. Etosha National Park is an exciting destination to seek out honey badgers. The sole place where honey badgers are absent in Namibia is the Namib Desert.