Namibia is a mesmerising landscape where the oldest desert on earth, the Namib Desert, meets the sea while the coastline holds a perennial wake for ships sunk long ago. There are dunes so high they induce vertigo and towns whose German architectural accents make them seem more European than African. With so much wonder across its vast and intriguing landscape, knowing the best time to visit Namibia is an integral part of planning your trip.
With its low rainfall and sunny disposition, Namibia is a year-round destination but every season has its pros and cons. From the people in the know – we’ll tell you when the best time to visit Namibia is, according to your wishes and expectations.
Where to Go & What to See When You Visit Namibia
1. Peak Season | July – October
Winter and Spring are the most popular times to visit Namibia thanks to the cooler temperatures. The days are warm and sunny and at night, it is cool and clear. It’s around this time that travellers take advantage of excellent game-viewing opportunities in places like Etosha National Park, arid Damaraland, the Skeleton Coast with its unique desert-adapted wildlife, and the lush Caprivi Strip. Apart from excellent game-viewing, this is a truly exceptional time to spend your evenings gazing at the night sky.
2. Low Season | November – March
In the summer months, Namibia’s temperatures soar, exacerbated by its sparse vegetation and desert terrain. Expect temperatures 40 degrees Celsius and over (above 100 degrees Fahrenheit) between November and February. These high temperatures make travel somewhat uncomfortable for some. If you are a fan of the heat, though, you’re in a prime position to take advantage of low off-season rates and fewer travellers.
Game viewing is much harder during the low season, though, especially in Etosha which is a dry season destination. On the flip side, the Skeleton Coast National Park is best viewed in these summer months. At this season of the year, climate is warmer at night and there is less fog. The Namib-Naukluft National Park is another year-round destination.
3. Shoulder Season | April – June
April and May are two months that serve up some of the best weather conditions for a visit to Namibia. These two months promise moderate temperatures and a lush, green landscape. They are also two months that are great to travel in if visitors plan on doing all three of Namibia’s most popular parks (Etosha, Namib-Naukluft and Skeleton Coast). The parks are still quiet in April but the animals are starting to show themselves after the summer rains. Game viewing becomes even better in May as the dry season gets into full swing.
Photo Credit: Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge
The best time to visit Namibia is YOUR best time to visit Namibia
Overall, there is something to see and do no matter what time of year you decide to visit Namibia. This is what makes our wonderfully diverse country an exciting holiday travel destination all year round. We know what we are talking about and what we are doing, as we have been organising unforgettable trips for our clients since 2004. What’s more, we’ve personally visited each of the places we suggest.
Contact us today, and let’s start planning your dream holiday to Namibia!
Need another reason to go? We’ll give you seven:
