Photo Safari at the Okaukuejo Waterhole, Etosha

What Is Okaukuejo?

Located just outside the Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha National Park, Namibia, lies the world-famous Okaukuejo waterhole, a place that has become legendary among wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Set against the stark beauty of Etosha’s vast salt pans, this waterhole serves as a lifeline for countless animals that rely on it during the dry season. From dawn until late into the night, wildlife moves in and out in a near-constant rhythm, creating one of the most spectacular natural gatherings in Africa.

Photographers and filmmakers from around the world travel here to witness the extraordinary diversity of species that congregate in a single frame. Towering elephants stride in beside elegant giraffes, while herds of zebra, springbok, gemsbok, and kudu drink cautiously, always alert to the possibility of predators. Occasionally, a lion or black rhino appears, adding tension and excitement to an already dynamic scene.

What makes Okaukuejo truly special is its accessibility. Visitors can photograph from comfortable raised platforms or from the nearby lodge area, providing clear views without disturbing the wildlife. At night, the waterhole is softly illuminated, allowing photographers to capture rare nocturnal activity such as elephants under starlight or rhinos interacting at the water’s edge.

For any wildlife photography enthusiast, Okaukuejo is more than just a waterhole. It is a place to study animal behaviour, master low-light techniques, and build a portfolio that captures the raw essence of African wilderness. Every visit offers new compositions, new interactions, and the kind of once-in-a-lifetime moments that define a photographer’s career.

The images shown below were taken in the heat of the day, just before we sat down for lunch. This sighting was not even rare, as we often see this on a daily occurrence here in Etosha.

A selection of great images by Jaren A Fernley

Elephant joins a herd of Zebra drinking among many local Springbok.

Close headshot of Etosha's famous Ghost Elephants

The arrival of the Gemsbok herd

Female Elephant cools off under the mid-day sun

Play time

Do you want to get involved? Then join our next Namibia - Botswana photographic safari with Mark and Jaren. The wildlife photographed during this Southern African camping photo tour exceeds your expectations. For any wildlife photography enthusiast, this photo safari will get you up close to some of the best African wildlife, where you will be submerged into the great wilderness allowing you to enjoy camping under the African stars.

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