Mangetti National Park is situated in the Kavango region and was established in 2008 to safeguard the wildlife and vegetation present in the area. It spans approximately 420 square kilometers and serves as a habitat for a diverse array of animals and birds. The parks feature a variety of vegetation, including Mangetti trees, savannah plants, and Kalahari forests. The thick vegetation that blankets much of Mangetti National Park makes it challenging to observe the wildlife, so enlisting a knowledgeable tour guide skilled in tracking is essential for glimpsing some of the animals that reside within the park.
Mangetti National Park is recognized as one of the new generation parks established across the country to enhance tourism in Namibia, which in turn aims to alleviate the poverty faced in many rural areas of the nation.
What to do in Mangetti National Park
Hiking through the Mangetti National Park
Exploring Mangetti Park on foot offers an opportunity to observe the small animals you may have overlooked while driving, and it allows you to connect more deeply with nature. The walks through the national park are always guided, as access to the hiking routes is only permitted with an experienced tour guide accompanying you. You will have the opportunity to learn about the various uses of certain trees found in the park, as some locals utilize them for medicinal purposes. Before embarking on a hike, it is advisable to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from scratches caused by tree branches, and it is important to adhere to the directions provided by the tour guide.
Game viewing in the Mangetti National Park
Mangetti National Park is smaller than many other parks in the country, yet it serves as a habitat for various wild animals that can be observed while driving through or taking a bush walk in the park. During a game drive in the Mangetti, one can spot a variety of animals, including hyenas, blue wildebeests, common elands, African wild dogs, leopards, giraffes, common impalas, kudus, Burchell’s zebras, gemsboks, sable antelopes, African wild cats, and elephants, which are occasionally seen. Other species such as caracals and duikers can also be observed, among many more.
Birdwatching in the Mangetti National Park
The thick vegetation present in Mangetti National Park serves as a habitat for various bird species that can be observed within the park. Several bird species breed and inhabit Mangetti National Park, including the Tawny Eagle, the Striped Kingfisher, the Lappet-faced Vulture, the Bateleur, Meyer’s Parrot, and many other species. The dry season is the ideal time to observe these, as migratory birds also arrive in the park, increasing the variety of bird species that can be spotted.
Where to go in Mangetti National Park
The Kavango West concessions
The concessions are filled with sand dunes that were formed millions of years ago from the Namib Desert, now adorned with bushes and trees due to the presence of fertile soil that supports the growth of vegetation around the sand dunes. The dunes provide a suitable habitat for various wild animals residing within the park, with the Antelope being the most frequently observed species in the concessions.
The Hoba Meteorite
The Hoba Meteorite, situated in Grootfontein, stands as a notable tourist attraction to explore following a visit to the Mangetti National Park. The Hoba Meteorite is a mass that fell from the sky many years ago and was discovered in 1920. Upon testing, it was found to have a higher iron content than any other component on Earth. It was a massive rock that weighed tons, but due to vandalism from locals and erosion over the years, it has diminished significantly. Nevertheless, it remains large and cannot be easily relocated to another part of the country.
The Das Alte Fort Museum
The Das Alte Fort Museum is easily identifiable, situated on a hill in Grootfontein. Constructed in 1896 by German colonialists, it originally served as barracks for their forces during that period. Their elevated position on the hill provided a strategic advantage, allowing them to detect enemy troops from afar with ease. The museum officially opened its doors in 1983. Upon entering, guided by a knowledgeable tour guide, visitors can explore numerous historical artefacts used by the Germans, alongside exhibits that illustrate the rich history of Grootfontein and its residents.
The Tsumeb Cultural Center
The Tsumeb cultural center embodies the idea that a visit to Mangetti National Park offers a unique blend of game viewing and cultural experiences, all seamlessly integrated into one enriching package. The museum was established to provide tourists with insight into the diverse cultures present in Namibia, serving as a venue to comprehend the significance and traditions of the various tribes throughout the country. It offers visitors a view into the historical life of Namibians by narrating the remarkable history of the country, while also reflecting on the contemporary life of Namibians after independence.
How to get to Mangetti National Park
Fly from Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, and land at Rundu airport. From there, it’s just an hour’s drive to the camp located near Mangetti National Park. The journey from Windhoek to Mangetti spans approximately seven hours, and given the lack of notable sights along the route to the park, flying is a more advantageous option. This choice will also allow for an earlier arrival at the park. Upon arriving at the park, a 4×4 vehicle will be necessary for navigating the sandy roads found throughout the National Park.
When to visit the Mangetti National Park
The National Park is open for visits throughout the year; however, it is advisable to check the availability of the activities you wish to engage in during your safari. The timing of your visit to Mangetti National Park will largely depend on the specific activities you plan to pursue both inside and outside the park.
