Namibia
With more than 300 days of sunshine, Namibia is an excellent destination throughout the year. Some days may be humid and rainy, while others may feel drier and hotter, but generally, the climate is warm and pleasant. During the dry winter months (May to October), game viewing is generally better as there are more animals visiting waterholes, and with its clear skies and cold temperatures, it makes for truly fantastic stargazing. Birding and botanical safaris are particularly popular during the rainy season (November to April). However, National Parks offer spectacular wildlife experiences throughout the year.
Dry Season – May to October
- May – day temperatures minimum of 24°C to a maximum of 28°C
- June to August – day temperatures minimum of 21°C to a maximum of 25°C
- September – day temperatures minimum of 22°C to a maximum of 27°C
- October – day temperatures minimum of 23°C to a maximum of 29°C
Green Season – November to April
- November/ December – day temperatures over 30°C
- January/ February – day temperatures 30-35°C / over 40°C in the deserts
- March/ April – day temperatures minimum of 25°C to a maximum of 30°C
Wildlife viewing
There is no better way to experience Namibia’s wildlife than through its various National Parks. Etosha National Park – Namibia’s flagship Reserve – lacks buffalo (though they are in the nearby Waterberg Plateau and Zambezi Region/Caprivi) but more than compensates for this with its abundance of elephants and lions. It’s also one of the best places in Africa to see the black rhino, observe waterholes both day and night and see the magnificent cheetahs roam the plains. Featuring an intriguing lunar landscape of massive deserts, sweeping sand dunes, and seascapes, Namibia is a country abundant in natural resources. It offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa. Unlike the savannahs and rainforests that cover much of the rest of the continent, Namibia’s interior presents an altogether different perspective.
Best time for viewing wildlife
- Excellent – June to October
- Good – May, November
- Possible – December to April
Summary
Every single month is worth a journey to Namibia. The best time to visit Namibia depends on your activities. For travellers who prefer to avoid the intense heat of high summer (December to March), travelling during the winter months is a good option (May to August). Visiting the Caprivi Strip between November and April is great for bird watchers, while the best time for safari-goers is from June to September. Due to the dry vegetation, animals need to visit permanent water holes resulting in perfect game viewing and photographing opportunities. Most visitors prefer to travel during the months May to October. It hardly ever rains, and you can enjoy the uninterrupted sunshine, except at the coast that can be foggy in the morning. The climate is moderate and does not get extremely hot during the day.
