About Klein Namutoni Waterhole
Located barely 2 kilometers south-east of the historic Namutoni Fort, Klein Namutoni is a convenient and highly rewarding natural artesian spring. Because of its proximity to Namutoni Resort, it is an ideal spot for early morning game drives or last-minute afternoon viewings before the main camp gates close at sunset.
The spring creates a vibrant green oasis surrounded by dense acacia scrub and woodland. Journeys of tall giraffes are a staple sight here, splaying their legs awkwardly to drink from the clear water. The surrounding thickets on the loop drive toward Dik-Dik Drive are famous for harbouring tiny, elusive Damara Dik-Diks, while large acacia trees overhead serve as favored perches for Martial Eagles and Tawny Eagles.
Key Facts & Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Waterhole Type | Natural Artesian Spring (Perennial) |
| Structure | Natural spring basin with lush reed banks & surrounding bush |
| Surrounding Vegetation | Dense acacia bushveld & riverine thickets |
| Best Time of Day | Early Morning & Late Afternoon (Golden Hour) |
| Peak Season | Dry Season (May to November) |
| Parking Area | Convenient loop parking with wide sightlines over the spring |
Searching for Giraffes, Dik-Diks, or Eagles?
Klein Namutoni is a top spot for spotting Damara Dik-Diks and drinking giraffes. Use our Wildlife Finder to filter waterholes across Etosha by your favorite animal species.
Wildlife Sightings Matrix
| Species | Probability | Behavior / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Giraffe | Very High (95%) | Frequent visits throughout the day to drink from the shallow spring pool |
| Damara Dik-Dik | High (80%) | Pairs spotted feeding along the dense acacia thickets on the approach road |
| Eagles & Raptors | High (85%) | Martial Eagles and Tawny Eagles perched atop surrounding acacia trees |
| Black-Faced Impala | Very High (90%) | Regular breeding herds drinking along the grassy edges |
| Elephants | Medium (50%) | Occasional afternoon herds arriving from nearby woodland sectors |
Exploring Around Namutoni Fort?
Combine your stop at Klein Namutoni with a relaxing lunch break or stroll inside the historic, fenced Namutoni Rest Camp or near Dik-Dik Drive.
Distances from Main Rest Camps & Gates
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Namutoni Resort | ~ 2.5 km | ~ 5 mins |
| Von Lindequist Gate (East) | ~ 13 km | ~ 15 mins |
| Chudop Waterhole | ~ 9 km | ~ 12 mins |
| Halali Resort | ~ 72 km | ~ 1.2 hrs |
Plan Eastern Pan Drives & Download Offline PDFs
Use our interactive route planner to map short loops around Namutoni, Chudop, and Fisher's Pan. Download or print your itinerary as an offline PDF before heading into areas with limited cell reception.
View Klein Namutoni on Interactive Map
Waterhole Gallery
Images property of NWR / Stalin Kay
Quick Facts
- Region Eastern Etosha (Namutoni Hub)
- GPS Coords 18°49'37.6"S 16°57'04.7"E
- Water Source Artesian Spring (Natural)
- Key Attraction Giraffes, Dik-Diks & Eagles
- Photo Quality Excellent (Short drive from camp)
- Shade Vehicle Parking Loop
