namutoni
Etosha National Park - Namibia
Namutoni is situated on the eastern side of Etosha pan, just inside the von Lindequist entrance to Etosha National Park. It is an improbably beautiful Beau Geste-style fort situated in an area dotted with graceful makalani palms, Hyphaene petersiana. It derives its name from the old German fort around which it is built and it overlooks the King Nehale waterhole. The presence of this fort undoubtedly gives Namutoni more character than the other rest camps inside the park.
It is also the closest restcamp to the picturesque Fischer's Pan, so expect great concentrations of waterbirds around here when it's wet – including a breeding colony of flamingos.
It originally dates back to a German police post, built here before the turn of the century. Later it was used as an army base and then for English prisoners during World War I, before being restored to its present state in 1957. The sunrise and sunset bugle calls are no longer sounded, but you can still get a great view of the park and the setting sun from the elevated deck walkways of the fort.
Namutoni’s accommodation was completely re-furbished in 2007. There are 20 bush chalets and 24 double rooms. All rooms have en-suite facilities of a bath and shower, a toilet, mini-bar, air-conditioning and a tea/coffee station. Mosquito nets are fitted to the front and back doors.
- Double Rooms: accessed along wooden walkways and offer comfort & privacy with access to a private area both at the front and from the bathroom. Equipped with a fridge & tea station.
- Bush chalets: spacious and private, with double shower and basin bathroom. Sliding doors give access to a relaxation area in the front of the chalet while an outside shower is reachable via the bathroom. Equipped with a fridge & tea station
Namutoni's office and reception are on the right as you enter the camp. In front of reception is a museum and the petrol station is across from the museum.
Located inside the fort are 2 restaurants. ‘African Fusion’ offers African fare, whilst ‘The Steakhouse’ has a more of a European flavour to it’s menu. Take your meals and drinks in the ‘Chill Lounge’ if you prefer.
Also inside the fort is the tourist shop where you can stock up on groceries. You can also find a craft shop selling a wide variety of traditional handcrafted Namibian goods. Jewelry and book stores complete Namutoni’s facilities.
Most people choose to drive themselves around the park. But you can join one of the three daily game drives around Etosha: Early morning, late afternoon and at night.
- Guided Game Drives
- You can join one of the twice daily game drives around Etosha
- Game Drive
- Game viewing is best done in the cool of the early morning and late afternoon, most people choose to drive themselves around the park - stopping at the various waterhole's and watching the animals as they come down to drink
Directions:
Namutoni is situated just inside the von Lindequist entrance to Etosha.
Small mid-price lodge close to the park gate - situated of the private Fischer's pan reserve
Large lodge situated at the Namutoni entrance gate to Etosha. Excellent facilities but expect to share these with large group tours
Small intimate tented camp built on raised platforms, good for privacy and a 'luxury outdoor' feel
Inside the park borders, built around Fort Namutoni. Recently upgraded to appeal to more 'up-market' visitors