Best Time to Visit Namibia

• High Season: May to October
• Low Season: December to March
• All Seasons: May to October (high season), November (shoulder season), December to March (low season) and April (shoulder season).

The high season is the best time to travel to Namibia for the wildlife-watching activities. Hotel rates are the highest and you need to book the room well in advance. Rainfall is insignificant and morning temperatures tend to be low.

November features the rise in temperatures and short, yet intense showers. This month is the best time to go to Namibia for whale-watching activities along the coast. Humidity and high temperatures can make the low season unpleasant in Namibia. Furthermore, some paths become impassable due to heavy storms. This season is poor for observing the animals.

During April, the countryside is verdant, temperatures are pleasant with nice weather. 

The best time of the year to go to Namibia largely depends on your interests and the experiences you seek. For optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, check out our insights on the best time to visit Namibia. This guidance will help you explore its breathtaking landscapes, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage in the most enjoyable conditions throughout the year.

1. Winter in Namibia – May to October 

May to October is considered as one of the best months to visit Namibia. Winter is the best time to visit Namibia for watching the animals. Dry season forces the wildlife to gather around waterholes. During the day, temperatures are pleasant, but at night it can get cold. In the desert areas, temperatures may drop below freezing. During the season, you won't have much rain, if at all.

• Average temperature: 50°F - 84°F /10°C - 29°C (in Windhoek)
• Rainfall: around 60 mm during the entire period.
• Season: Dry / Winter
• Highlights: Etosha National Park offers great sightseeing during the day and night. Then, you will see many herbivores and carnivores around water sources, especially by the end of the season. The same applies to the region of Zambezi. Visit the Namib Desert to see sand dunes that change size and shape. Also, take a walk along the eroded Sesriem Canyon.

2. Fall in Namibia – November 

November is a variable month in Namibia, which means this is one of the best time to travel to Namibia.The dry period may continue, but this season is when the hot period begins. Also, clouds start to appear in the sky and you may experience intense rains.

• Average temperature: 61°F - 86°F / 16°C - 30°C (in Windhoek)
• Rainfall: 30 mm
• Season: Variable / Spring
• Highlights: If the dry season continues, you can see a lot of animals crowding sources of water. Go to Etosha, Ongava and AfriCat Foundation for the best sightseeing. The first thunderstorm of the wet season is a memorable show for everyone who attends it. November is the best time to go to Namibia for observing the migration of the whales. Go to Walvis Bay for the best experience.

3. Monsoon in Namibia – December to March

Namibia receives less rainfall than the neighboring countries, but summer is here considered the rainy season. Rains are short and usually occur during the afternoon. The humidity rises with high temperatures and the rainfall, and the days become unpleasant. Since there is enough water everywhere, spotting the wildlife is harder. If you plan to visit the Namib Desert, note that it is usually very hot there during this period.

• Average temperature: 59°F - 88°F / 15°C - 31°C (in Windhoek)
• Rainfall: 270 mm 
• Season: Wet / Summer
• Highlights: This period is the best time to travel to Namibia for experiencing the lush landscape. Animals scatter and remain hidden by vegetation. Flowers beautify the Namib Desert and the watching activities of migratory birds are excellent. Unlike the Namib, the Skeleton Coast is a good destination for a visit from December to March. You can find low rates throughout Namibia during the low season.

4. Fall in Namibia – April 

April marks the end of the rainy season and has pleasant temperatures. The weather is clear while the countryside is green and without dust. So, if you like beautiful scenery, April is the ideal time for visiting Namibia. Hotel and other deals begin to rise.

• Average temperature: 55°F - 79°F / 13°C - 26°C (in Windhoek)
• Rainfall: 30 mm
• Season: Dry / Fall
• Highlights: In April, green patches tend to appear in the Namib. The rest of the country is the most beautiful then. Animals start to show themselves, but much less than in the high season.

Depending on the region, you can always find the right time for visiting Namibia. Any season is good for visiting the national parks. It can be either for observing animals or beautiful scenery. A visit to the Skeleton Coast is ideal during the low season, when it is warmer. The only time when you should avoid coming to the Namib is from December to February when temperatures are high.