THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NAMIBIA
A MONTH BY MONTH BREAKDOWN
Namibia is one of Africa’s top contenders when it comes to spectacular vistas and sheer natural beauty. There are few destinations on the planet as stirring, from the silvery sand of Etosha and the stark Skeleton Coast to the striking red dunes of the Sossusvlei. Running through the heart of the country, is a spine of mountains – the Naukluft Mountains, Spitzkoppe, Damaraland, the Brandberg, and the magnificent Fish River Canyon.
And do not be mistaken, Namibia is one of the best places in Southern Africa to see wildlife. Etosha National Park is one of the top wildlife-watching destinations – expect big cats, elephant, black rhino and an abundance of plains game. Another emerging destination is Damaraland with its desert-adapted lions and elephants and the largest population of free-ranging rhinos in Africa.
Have we got your attention? Well if the answer is yes, and you’ve already started dreaming up your dream Namibian vacation. Then, we suggest you read on and discover which time of the year will be best for your visit.
JANUARY
January forms part of Namibia’s low season and rainy season. The northern regions, Oshana, Zambezi region, Kavango East and Kavango West, tend to experience the heaviest rainfall. Despite the rain, it can get extremely hot and humid. The scenery is much greener because of the rains. Game viewing is also good even though there is rain.
Rainfall: up to 121mm
Temperature: 88.3°F (31.3°C)
FEBRUARY
February is also part of the rainy season so make sure to pack an umbrella as well as mosquito repellent. It is worth taking anti-malarial medication prior to travel. The heat continues and is even more intense in the south. We recommend visiting the coastal towns, such Swakopmund or Walvis Bay for some adventure activities, like sailing or dune climbing. Make sure to stay hydrated. Again, game viewing is good
Rainfall: up to 106mm
Temperature: 86.3°F (30.2°C)
MARCH
Temperatures are starting to cool slightly and there is slightly less rainfall but be prepared for scattered thunderstorms and the occasional cool day. It is a good time to go on a road trip. Visit the mysterious fairy circles in the Namib desert or take in the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon, Africa’s largest canyon.
Rainfall: 100.2mm
Temperature: 83.3°F (28.5°C)
APRIL
The rainy season has come to an end and daytime temperatures drop to a much milder heat. The nights can get quite chilly. Arguably, it is one of the best months to visit temperature wise and despite being a part of the rainy season there is little to no rainfall. Game viewing is good, especially for seeing newborn animals and migratory birds.
Rainfall: 47mm
Temperature: 80.4°F (26.9°C)
MAY
May marks the beginning of the dry season and one of the best months to visit Namibia. Wildlife start to gather around the waterholes as other water sources dry up, making animals much easier to spot. May is also just before the high season, so you can enjoy good weather, good game viewing with cheaper accommodation and no crowds.
Rainfall: 10.4mm
Temperature: 77°F (25°C)
JUNE
As Namibia moves into winter, temperatures become significantly cooler, especially the nights. However, depending where you are in the country, daytime temperatures are still mild (mid-20°Cs / 70°F). The cold makes for good safaris though as the animals tend to sunbathe and relax around the waterholes.
Rainfall: 1.7mm
Temperature: 72.6°F (22.6°C)
JULY
Namibia is in the heart of its winter now. Make sure to bring warm clothes because game drives in open vehicles will be chilly. Night times are especially cold, it can drop below freezing in the desert! Etosha National Park is very popular this time of year, so be warned, accommodation comes at premium prices.
Rainfall: 0.0mm
Temperature: 71.4°F (21.9°C)
AUGUST
August is the same as July when it comes to weather, game viewing, accommodation etc.
Rainfall: 0.3mm
Temperature: 78.6°F (25.9°C)
SEPTEMBER
Spring has sprung! September is considered the best time to visit Namibia. The temperature is starting to increase but humidity is still low. Game viewing is good and the skies are blue!
Rainfall: 5.7mm
Temperature: 85.4°F (29.7°C)
OCTOBER
October is the start of summer. The green vegetation begins to fade and heat builds. It is a good month for game viewing because the country is so dry – visibility is good and the wildlife gathers at the waterholes.
Rainfall: 7.9mm
Temperature: 89°F (31.7°C)
NOVEMBER
The heat continues to rise in November. However, humidity remains low. Clouds tend to build in the afternoon, bringing a chance of rain. November is the start of good bird watching opportunities, especially in the Caprivi Strip and at Swakopmund, when the flamingos start to gather.
Rainfall: 22.1mm
Temperature: 89°F (31.7°C)
DECEMBER
December welcomes the first rains. Temperatures remain high and the humidity begins to increase. The landscape begins to change with the rain as everything comes back to life. The animals start to disperse due to the increasing availability of water. Despite being low season, there is a brief peak around Christmas and New Year so make sure to book in advance.
Rainfall: 38.7mm
Temperature: 89°F (32.1°C)
