Best Time to Visit Namibia

Thinking of taking a trip to Namibia? Well, you're in for a treat! Namibia is a beautiful country, located in the southwest of Africa and is home to diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. It is a land of stark contrasts, towering sand dunes, vast savannahs and rugged mountains lying within a few hundred miles of each other. But when is the best time to visit this amazing place?

Bare tree in Namibian desert

Climate in Namibia

Namibia in general has a hot desert climate, particularly in the central and southern regions so the days are hot and the nights a lot cooler. On the coast, in areas like Swakopmund, the climate is a lot cooler with an influence from the cold Benguela Current, there is often a coastal fog that envelops Swakopmund. In the north, around Etosha National Park, the climate is semi arid, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Overall, Namibia is pretty dry, with clear blue skies, particularly during its winter months and little rainfall throughout the year, especially in the desert areas. If you are looking for the best time to visit Namibia then make sure you pack for warm sunny days and colder evenings.

Climate Table Namibia

Source:(travel climate for Namibia)

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Max. Temperature
21°
21°
21°
20°
19°
19°
18°
17°
17°
18°
19°
21°
Min. Temperature
14°
14°
14°
13°
12°
11°
10°
10°
11°
11°
12°
14°
Sun Hours
6
7
8
7
7
5
6
7
7
6
6
6
Water Temperature
14°
14°
15°
15°
15°
14°
13°
12°
11°
11°
12°
13°
Rain Days
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0

Low Season in Namibia

The low season in Namibia falls between January and March. During this time, the weather is hot and humid, but it is also the wet season making the landscapes green and lush. This season is the perfect time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and provides you with the opportunity to see wildlife giving birth or taking care of their young.

Best things to do in Namibia during the low season

  • Visit the Caprivi Strip, known for its beautiful scenery and birdlife
  • Explore Etosha National Park (etoshanationalpark) and observe a wide variety of wildlife around the water holes
  • Take amazing photos at the Sossusvlei sand dunes, where the desert landscapes will be vibrant and green
  • Hike through the Namib Desert and explore the unique plant life

 

Starry sky over Namibian desert

Shoulder Season in Namibia

The shoulder season falls between April and June, as well as between September and December. These are some of the best times to visit the country, as the weather is milder, and the landscapes are breathtaking. During this season you'll have the best of both worlds, with fewer crowds and plenty of sunshine.

Best things to do in Namibia during the shoulder season

  • Visit the Skeleton Coast, known for its shipwrecks and sand dunes
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Namib Desert and gain a unique perspective of the landscape

 

Dirt road through Namibian desert

High Season in Namibia

The high season in Namibia falls between July and August. During this time, the weather is cool and dry with clear blue skies making it the perfect time to explore the country's national parks and reserves. It is however also the busiest time of the year so plan your trip in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred activities.

Best things to do in Namibia during the high season

  • Visit Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world
  • Explore Sossusvlei (sossusvlei) one of the most photographed places in Namibia, with its towering red sand dunes and stark desert landscapes
  • Visit the Himba tribe, one of the last traditional tribes in Africa, and learn more about their way of life
  • Explore the coastal town of Swakopmund, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities including sandboarding, quad biking, and camel rides

 

Tarmac road through desert in Namibia

In conclusion, Namibia is a wonderful country to visit regardless of the season. Whether you're interested in the local culture or want to explore the natural beauty of the landscapes, there is something for everyone. So go ahead and start planning your trip to Namibia today and have a good trip!