Animals in Namibia
Wildlife
Namibia hosts an impressive array of wildlife adapted to deserts, savannas, and coastal regions. From desert elephants and oryxes in arid zones to whales and dolphins off the Atlantic coast, the country offers a striking blend of land and marine biodiversity.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsGreater Kudu

Elegant antelope with spiral horns, common in African woodlands and bush.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsSpotted Hyena

Scavenger and predator with a strong bite, known for its eerie laugh.
See animal detailsTransvaal Lion

Subspecies of lion found in southern Africa, large with light-colored mane.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal detailsLanner Falcon

Medium-sized falcon from Africa and southern Europe, fast and agile hunter.
See animal detailsAfrican Fish Eagle

Iconic raptor with white head, feeds mainly on fish in African lakes.
See animal detailsBlack-browed Albatross

Seabird with dark eye-stripe and long wings, glides over southern oceans with ease.
See animal detailsCape Petrel

Spotted seabird from the Southern Ocean, follows ships and feeds at sea.
See animal detailsBottlenose Dolphin

Smart and social dolphin with curved mouth, common in warm seas.
See animal detailsCommon Dolphin

Fast-swimming dolphin with a yellowish side patch, lives in oceans worldwide.
See animal detailsSouthern Right Whale

Large baleen whale with calluses on its head, found in southern oceans.
See animal detailsNational Animal of Namibia
The oryx, known for its long, straight horns and desert resilience, is a prominent symbol in Namibia. Often seen in arid landscapes, it represents endurance, elegance, and adaptation—qualities that reflect both the natural spirit and cultural identity of the nation.
Most Dangerous Animals in Namibia
Despite its beauty, Namibia is home to species that can be dangerous under certain conditions. From territorial elephants and aggressive hippos to sharks off the coast, caution is needed when exploring wild zones or remote marine and inland environments.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsSpotted Hyena

Scavenger and predator with a strong bite, known for its eerie laugh.
See animal detailsTransvaal Lion

Subspecies of lion found in southern Africa, large with light-colored mane.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal detailsTop 10 Iconic Animals in Namibia
Namibia's most iconic animals include powerful mammals and elusive predators that define its wild terrain. Elephants, big cats, and venomous snakes are among the species that contribute to the country's renown as a destination for nature tourism and safaris.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal details