About Goas Waterhole
Situated roughly 35 kilometers east of Halali, Goas is widely regarded by experienced safari guides as one of the most rewarding natural waterholes in central-eastern Etosha. Fed by constant underground artesian pressure, the water emerges into two distinct natural pools surrounded by yellow-bark acacia trees and dense bushveld.
Because of its natural double-basin layout and surrounding cover, game tends to linger here longer than at open boreholes. Large elephant herds frequently bathe in the muddy upper pool, while stealthy leopards utilize the thick tree line to stalk drinking antelope. For birdwatchers, the high acacia canopy provides roosting spots for magnificent raptors, including Martial Eagles and Tawny Eagles.
Key Facts & Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Waterhole Type | Natural Artesian Spring (Perennial Double Pool) |
| Structure | Upper mud pool and lower clear-water basin |
| Surrounding Vegetation | Yellow-bark acacia woodland & dense thickets |
| Best Time of Day | Early Morning (Leopards & Raptors) / Midday (Elephants) |
| Peak Season | Dry Season (May to November) |
| Parking Area | Shaded gravel loop offering elevated multi-angle views |
Searching for Leopards, Elephants, or Eagles?
Goas is a prime hotspot for big cats and impressive birds of prey. Use our Wildlife Finder to filter Etosha waterholes by your target species and track down the best viewing locations across the park.
Wildlife Sightings Matrix
| Species | Probability | Behavior / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leopard | High (70%) | Frequently spotted resting in acacia branches or drinking early morning |
| Elephants | Very High (90%) | Breeding herds mud-bathing in the upper pool during peak heat |
| Eagles & Raptors | Very High (95%) | Martial Eagles, Tawny Eagles, and Bateleurs roosting on tall trees |
| Black Rhino | Medium (35%) | Occasional visits during quiet early morning or late afternoon hours |
| Plains Zebra & Blue Wildebeest | Very High (95%) | Large mixed herds congregating continuously around the lower pool |
Planning a Rest Break Between Halali & Namutoni?
Goas is perfectly located along the central loop drive. Explore secure, fenced picnic areas like Springbokfontein or Halali Rest Camp to enjoy a peaceful break.
Distances from Main Rest Camps & Gates
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Halali Resort | ~ 35 km | ~ 40 – 50 mins |
| Namutoni Resort | ~ 45 km | ~ 50 mins – 1 hr |
| Okaukuejo Resort | ~ 105 km | ~ 2 hrs |
Calculating Central Drives & Exporting Offline PDFs
Map your journey along the famous Rhino Drive and Goas loop using our interactive route planner. Don't forget to download or print your route as a PDF before entering the park, as cellular reception around Goas is extremely limited.
View Goas on Interactive Map
Waterhole Gallery
Images property of NWR / Stalin Kay
Quick Facts
- Region Central-Eastern Etosha (Halali Loop)
- GPS Coords 18°59'24.4"S 16°33'22.8"E
- Water Source Artesian Spring (Double Pool)
- Key Attraction Leopards, Elephants & Raptors
- Photo Quality World-Class (Shaded vantage points)
- Shade Tree-shaded loop parking
