When to visit Namibia

The best time to go visit Namibia depends on where you are heading and what you would like to experience. As a significant proportion of Namibia’s land is blanketed by the Namib Desert, Namibia is a predominantly dry, sub-tropical destination that is bathed in glorious sunshine for much of the year. Temperatures can experience huge variations, from day to night and summer to winter, with the average being 25 degrees C.

Namibia is well known for having night skies that are remarkably clear and unpolluted, making it a refuge for astronomers and astro-photographers. You'll have the opportunity to see breath-taking celestial displays whether you're in the wide deserts, isolated lodges, or the nation's capital, Windhoek. Since the skies are clear and the air is fresh during the dry winter months of May to October, these are the best times to view the Milky Way, constellations, and even meteor showers. Your Namibian vacation has a fascinating new dimension thanks to this celestial encounter.

Wet season – December to March

During Namibia’s wet season you may experience heavy and prolonged downpours. On a typical day, blue skies will reign until afternoon clouds form, bringing rain with them before clearing again by early evening. The game also moves into the bush at the beginning of this period, where the more luscious vegetation hides them. January & February is the birthing season of the Springbok and Zebra give birth which leads to lots of predator interaction.

Shoulder Dry Season – April to June

Namibia emerges from the wet season and becomes increasingly arid, with crispness in the air and landscapes with more greenery as a result of the rains. The air also has lower dust content, making it more pleasant. Prices may also be lower these months are outside of the peak time to travel.

Dry Season – July to November

The latter part of the dry season is the most popular time to visit Namibia as the country cools down and dries out. June to October is also the best time to see big game as large concentrations of herbivore species congregate at watering holes. November can be variable, however, and you may still experience the hot, dry weather but it can also be cloudy and mark an early start to the rainy season. Birders will enjoy the latter months, as migrant birds arrive, anticipating the onset of the rains.

Damaraland

Known for its desert-adapted elephants, lions and rhinos, tracking these animals in their arid habitat in the stunning Damaraland region is a unique and rewarding experience.

Skeleton Coast

The location earned its name from the many shipwrecks that dot the shoreline but if you can get past the treacherous conditions, thick coastal fogs, strong currents, and shifting sands there's a huge array of wildlife viewing opportunities. Desert-adapted species like the gemsbok (oryx), springbok, desert elephant, and brown hyena roam the arid terrain. Seals and seabird colonies thrive along the coast.

Namib Desert Night Walks

The Namib Desert is a fantastic place to observe nocturnal animals that come to life when the sun goes down. Join a guided night walk for the chance to see scorpions, geckos and other desert dwellers.

Swakopmund

This coastal town offers plenty of marine wildlife experiences, including dolphin and seal cruises. If you're feeling really adventurous then hit the waters in a kayak to see marine life up close.

Cheetah Conservation Fund

The Cheetah Conservation Fund near Otjiwarongo is a great place to learn about the conservation efforts that are happening to protect these endandgered big cats and there's even an opportunity to see them up close.