The elephants in Etosha National Park are among the largest animals in Africa, both in body size and in their presence across the park’s open landscapes. They usually move in herds led by an experienced female called a matriarch.
Well adapted to the park’s dry and semi-arid conditions, they are often seen at waterholes where they drink, bathe, and cool off. Their huge bodies, long tusks, and slow, steady movements make them one of the most memorable animals for visitors to watch.
During the dry season, when water is hard to find, elephants dig into dry riverbeds with their trunks to reach underground water. They also use their trunks to break branches and strip bark for food. In doing so, they change the environment and open up areas for other animals.
Their diet includes grasses, leaves, bark, and fruit. Because they need to eat large amounts every day, elephants move across long distances in search of enough food and water.
Elephants are not only one of the park’s main attractions but also play an important role in keeping the ecosystem balanced. By breaking trees, digging for water, and clearing plants, they create paths for smaller animals and help shape the land. They have strong family ties, protecting and caring for their young, and they communicate with deep rumbles, touch, and body movements.
Visitors to Etosha often see elephants at well-known waterholes such as Okaukuejo, Nebrownii, and Olifantsbad. At these spots, they sometimes gather in large groups, spraying mud on themselves or splashing each other in the water.
While they often seem calm, elephants are powerful and intelligent animals, ready to protect themselves and their herd if they feel threatened. Their presence in Etosha makes every game drive more special, and their behavior offers a fascinating insight into the life of one of Africa’s most important and well-respected species.
