Climate
55% of the country is classified as arid or extremely arid. Summer months are hot, temperature of 35°C or higher are common Northern and Southern Namibia. Winter days are generally pleasant but night temperatures can drop below zero. Travellers to Namibia are advised to pack for both cold and hot scenarios with layering being the best choice.
Average annual rainfall varies from a meagre 10 mm along the coast to 700 mm in the North East.The national average rainfall is 270 mm per year. More than 70% of Namibia's rainfall is recorded between December and March.
Fog is common occurrence along the coast, but usually lifts about mid-morning and settles again in the afternoon.
Average annual rainfall varies from a meagre 10 mm along the coast to 700 mm in the North East.The national average rainfall is 270 mm per year. More than 70% of Namibia's rainfall is recorded between December and March.
Fog is common occurrence along the coast, but usually lifts about mid-morning and settles again in the afternoon.
When is the best time to visit Namibia?
Namibia has a lovely summer climate all year round. However, if wildlife is the main reason for your visit, sightings are generally better in the dry season (May to October). In May the scenery is still green from summer rainfall and, as the land begins to dry, animals move closer to water sources. June to August become even drier, which makes for more predictable (and better) game viewing, but these months are also cooler, especially at night. August and September are the best months for game viewing, but the dry land can make the atmosphere very dusty. The dry months until August are great for going to the desert, the air is clear of dust and clouds: perfect conditions for photography.
Namibian school holidays fall in May, August and December. Make sure you plan your tour well ahead if this is when you would like to travel.
Are you a birdwatcher? Then the wet season (October to April) might be a better time to go. Don't be put off on account of the rain, it usually rains hard for a brief period in the afternoon and clears up before sunset. With the rains comes lush green growth, which coincides with when many animals birth their young. The temperatures peak from October to February and it can get unpleasantly hot, however, the coastal areas are very pleasant at during these months.
Namibian school holidays fall in May, August and December. Make sure you plan your tour well ahead if this is when you would like to travel.
Are you a birdwatcher? Then the wet season (October to April) might be a better time to go. Don't be put off on account of the rain, it usually rains hard for a brief period in the afternoon and clears up before sunset. With the rains comes lush green growth, which coincides with when many animals birth their young. The temperatures peak from October to February and it can get unpleasantly hot, however, the coastal areas are very pleasant at during these months.
