The best time to visit Namibia is from July to October, when daytime temperatures are just above 20°C during the day, the rain is at a minimum, and animal viewing is at its best. It's a wonderful time to visit, and you need to plan ahead. Namibia's winter months will offer warm days and cool nights, with a chance of dramatic thunderstorms. Mostly Namibia is dry, where the deep orange dunes are framed with cobalt skies, and the best month to visit Namibia depends on your interests. What do you prefer, game viewing, scenery, or good weather.
It's mid-summer in Namibia, and although it is usually not the best time to visit, Namibia has a different charm. Temperatures can be hot and humid, ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F) and can reach 40°C (104°F) in the desert. There may be downpours in the afternoon, but they don't come every day, and in the mornings it is generally clear and perfect for early excursions before the rain starts and the temperature increases.
Very similar to January, February in Namibia brings hot, humid days with temperatures often rising above 30°C and the chance of occasional afternoon downpours. While it’s not typically the best time to go to Namibia, this month can still offer lush landscapes and fewer crowds for those seeking a quieter travel experience.
Once the rains begin to die down, night temperatures start to get cooler in Namibia; this lightens the travel environment. Nights are cooling to around 15°C (59°F), and days are more comfortable around 30°C (86°F). If the travel environment is not better yet, it will start to be. People usually consider this phase, approaching the beginning of the high season, as the best time to go to Namibia, avoiding extreme heat and heavy rains.
By April, the rain should have stopped, and Namibia is beginning to experience less extreme and more pleasant weather; this is usually regarded as the beginning of the best season to go to Namibia. During this time, daytime temperatures decline to around 25°C (77°F), while at night the temperatures drop to around 13°C (55°F), and even lower on some occasions in the deserts. It is an excellent time to explore, without the extreme heat or summer rains.
May marks the beginning of Namibia's winter and is often considered part of the best time to go to Namibia. With little to no rainfall and low humidity, conditions are dry and comfortable. As rivers and natural water sources begin to dry up, wildlife starts to gather around waterholes, making it an excellent time for game viewing and outdoor exploration.
As winter settles in, Namibia begins to experience colder nights, with temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F) and some areas of the desert nearing freezing. Yet the days are pleasant with clear blue skies and daytime temperatures hovering in the mid-20° C (70° F). The cool, dry weather means winter is one of the best seasons to visit Namibia, particularly for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
July and August are Namibia’s main winter months and are widely considered the best time to go to Namibia, especially for safari enthusiasts. With daytime temperatures ranging from 21 to 25°C (70–77°F) and clear skies, conditions are ideal for outdoor activities. However, nights can be cold—around 7°C (45°F), and even below freezing in the desert—so be sure to pack warm clothing, particularly for early morning game drives in open vehicles.
September is a lovely month and is often regarded as the best time to visit Namibia. The temperatures are warm but not too hot, humidity remains low, and the weather is dry and clear, making it ideal for travelling through Namibia’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Under these conditions, it is one of the most popular times to go.
October marks the transition into Namibia’s hotter season, with green vegetation fading and daytime temperatures rising to around 29°C (84°F), and even higher in desert regions. Despite the heat, it’s still considered one of the best times to go to Namibia for game viewing, as the dry conditions draw wildlife to waterholes, making sightings more frequent and rewarding.
By November, the heat in Namibia continues to rise, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C (86°F). Although humidity remains low, the afternoons often bring cloud buildup and a chance of rain. While it's not typically the best time to go to Namibia, this transitional period can still offer rewarding experiences, especially for those who prefer fewer crowds and dramatic desert skies.
December marks the arrival of the first rains in Namibia, bringing a drop in temperature and a dramatic transformation of the landscape. As the countryside turns green and vibrant, wildlife begins to disperse with the increased availability of water. While it’s not the best time to go to Namibia for concentrated game viewing, this season offers a unique and beautiful perspective of the country’s renewal and lush scenery.
When considering Namibia travel tips, it’s helpful to know that leaving a tip of 5%-10% at restaurants is appreciated but not required. Many hotels and lodges provide a communal staff tip box, allowing you to leave one ti...
Travel Tips: When considering Namibia travel tips, it’s helpful to know that leaving a tip of 5%-10% at restaurants is appreciated but not required. Many hotels and lodges provide a communal staff tip box, allowing you to...