Etosha (Namibia) and Madikwe (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Etosha | Madikwe | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Namibia | South Africa |
| Type | National park | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 22,935 km² | 750 km² |
| Best time | August to October | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 2–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Present |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Etosha | Madikwe |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Etosha if
- you are travelling in October to November
- you want camping
- you hope to see oryx, ostriches, flamingos and foxes
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in February to May and July
- you want walking safaris
- you hope to see white rhino, buffalo, hippos and African wild dogs
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Etosha or Madikwe?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Etosha is stronger in October to November. Madikwe is stronger in February to May and July.
When is the best time for each?
Etosha: August to October. Madikwe: July to September.
Sources: MEFT Namibia - Etosha National Park · Namibia Wildlife Resorts - Etosha National Park · Weather2Travel - Etosha climate · North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.