Climate

Just as Namibia is filled with contrasting geography, equivalent climactic differences do apply depending on your location. Partially covered by the Namib, one of the world's driest deserts, Namibia's climate is generally very dry and pleasant. The cold Benguella current keeps the coast cool, damp and free of rain for most of the year. Inland, all the rain falls in summer (November to April). January and February are hot, when daytime temperatures in the interior can exceed 40ºC (104ºF). Winter nights can be fairly cold, but days are generally warm and pleasant. Namibia is a year-round destination. Pack accordingly.

Temperatures 
In keeping with the rains, the hottest months are Dec - March. Especially in the desert where temperatures frequently hit over 40ºC but nights are cool. Winter nights in desert can hit freezing.

Dry Season
April enjoys greener landscapes and fresh air. Becomes increasingly dry until October when the landscape is more scarce but wildlife viewing at it's best.

Wet Season
Namibia receives a fraction of rain experienced by its neighbours. Dec - March is humid with localised, afternoon thunderstorms. More commonly experienced in central & eastern parts of the country. More unusual in the desert.

Best known for: Safari experience within the Etosha National Park which, in the north, shimmers in the heat due to the salt pan and the grasslands of the south of the pan, rich in wildlife. 

Lesser known for:  Wild, rugged landscapes of Damaraland, home to a wealth of rock art | The fascinating towm of Swakopmund, perched between the sands of Namib Desert & waves of the Atlantic Ocean with wide, palem lined streets, old German architecture and delicious seafood. 

Dates for the diary

Namibia Independence Day
21st March | Annual | Throughout Namibia
Numerous banquets and festivals are held in a grand style. Parades and sports events are held in Windhoek

Oshituthi Shomagongo
March - April | Annual | Northern Namibia
A celebration of the marula fruit over 2 - 3 days. The 8 Aawambo communities gather to harvest & make the omagongo. Men carve cups from wood & gourds to drink the beverage. The women make clay pots & weave baskets in which to harvest the fruit.

Gams Art Festival
September | Annual | Windhoek
Celebrating the city’s rich cultural diversity with troupes of dancers, musicians, poets and performers as they compete to win the various competitions. The best of Namibian food is also available.

Windhoek Carnival
April | Annual | Windhoek
Dating back to 1953, the carnival has a great deal of social relevance in Namibia & its celebration is of Germanic origin. In keeping with carnivals held in Germany and reminiscent of the German Oktoberfest. There are street processions, music, dancing and celebration of German food and beer.

Hereos Day
August | Annual | Okahandja (Usually held on the Sunday closest to August 23 & lasts for three days.)
Honouring the memory of deceased chieftains of the Herero people. A rich celebration of culture & history. The festivities are marked by many parades of warriors and peoples dressed in traditional garb commemorating the battles against the Germans & the Khoi-khoi tribe.

Namibia Tourism Board contact information

NTB_Logo-removebg-preview.png

 

Email: [email protected]
Tel: +264 61 290 6000
Address: C/O Haddy & Sam Nujoma Drive, Private Bag 13244, Windhoek, Namibia
Web: visitnamibia.com.na

Namibia COVID Protocols Namibia COVID Protocols

Namibia COVID-19 Travel Protocols

Updated: 05 September 2022

Pre-Departure Requirements

  • Vaccination certificates or -ve PCR Tests for entry are no longer required

On Arrival

  • Vaccination certificates or -ve PCR Tests for entry are no longer required

On Departure

  •  Dependent on airline / transit point / final destination


Useful links and documents