NAMIBIA - Mushara Lodge, Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park takes its name from the world famous Etosha Pan - one of the many large salt pans formed by the wind in this flat region. Etosha National Park is Namibia's premier wildlife destination and is almost the size of Switzerland. Etosha was declared a National Park in 1907 and is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and one species of fish.

Large herds of plains game concentrate around the waterholes in the dry season, whilst the sporadic rain that falls during the summer months produces a profusion of new life.

Etosha means "great white place" in the local language, appropriately derived from the blinding white salt bleached earth that stretches over 70 miles east to west and 34 miles north to south (covering over 3,000 square miles).

Mushara Lodge is a new luxury lodge, located only 5 miles from the Von Lindequist Gate on the eastern outskirts of the Etosha National Park. The name Mushara derives from the Purple Pod Terminalia tree, which grows in abundance in the lodge grounds.

ACCOMMODATION:

The lodge comprises twelve spacious chalets. The thatched public area consists of a good, small library, a bar with an extensive wine cellar, airy lounge with welcoming fireplace for winter evenings, a dining area and well stocked curio shop. Detailed attention has been paid to the décor, which is an electic blend of traditional African and modern art works combined with original paintings. Cuisine is of a high standard and there is an excellent wine cellar.

ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE:

Game viewing in Etosha National Park is very good year round, particularly around the waterholes: springbok, gemsbok, wildebeest, Burchell's zebra, Hartmann's mountain zebra, waterbuck, red hartebeest, giraffe, eland and the endemic black-faced impala. Elephant and lion are frequently seen and white and black rhino are a big attraction to this area.

Game drives are conducted in high quality vehicles with all weather safety design and offering 360 degree open-air unobstructed views – with optional height for visibility and spacious comfort. Guides are professional and local. Optional nature walks are also offered.

The plains game is always in sight: wildebeest, zebra and springbok. Birdlife is prolific, with 340 species to be seen - amongst them 10 of Namibia's 14 endemic bird species. Ostrich, the immense Kori Bustard and raptors like Greater Kestrel, Lanner Falcon and Pale Chanting Goshawk are found in abundance.