Best Time To Visit Namibia
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On A Safari In Namibia
Enjoy classic game viewing, marvel at towering desert dunes & explore beautifully wild landscapes on a Namibia safari. A safari in Namibia is as much about the wildlife as the country’s scenic beauty. It is home to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves, but there’s so much more to discover. The national parks of the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) are finally getting the attention they deserve, while the dune-scapes of the Skeleton Coast and its hinterland are simply extraordinary. These are just the starting points for exploring a country rich in experiences and safari opportunities. Luxury African Safaris to Namibia will show you why Namibia is the soul of Africa; characterised by vast open spaces, breathtaking scenery and great contrasts.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Namibia For Safari?
Namibia offers travelers incomparable and mixed experiences, consider it the perfect fit for any Nomadic traveler, with the modern day Windhoek serving as the starting point of many Namibia holiday tours. You can spare some time and take part in short Namibia day tours before exploring the rest of the country’s offerings.
The dry, winter months from May to October are widely regarded by African safari experts as the best months for visiting Namibia for game viewing with the vast red sand dunes of the Sossusvlei salt and clay pan – mesmerizing in the twilight. It doesn’t matter what time of year you experience Namibia, or even the Namibia safari seasons — the country’s epic wildlife and breathtaking beauty is on display year-round.
That said, much of this country is arid but there are still plenty of things to do in Namibia if you are on a tight budget or short of time during your visit.
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Month-By-Month Guide On When To Go To Namibia
In this guide, we explain further about the best time of the year to visit Namibia for a safari by month, and apart from sharing with you insights to Namibia’s best safari months, our listed Namibia climate guide is designed to assist you plan your ultimate Namibia holiday vacation.
Overall Best Time to Visit Namibia
Namibia can be visited year-round- climate generally dry and pleasant
Travelling to Namibia from June to October (Dry Season) – Best time for wildlife game viewing in all park especially in Etosha
Travelling to Namibia from October to April – Best time for migratory birds and bird viewing
Best weather – April and May
Visiting Namibia In January
Travelling for Namibia safari in January?
Namibia in January it’s mid-summer heat and temperatures in most parts of the country experiences hot days with average temperatures ranging from 28-33°C (82-91°F) to night-time lows of 14-18°C (57-64°F), with some parts experiencing sharp showers in the late afternoons.
Summer is also the wettest time of year in Namibia, with the summer rains making Etosha National Park green and lush, meaning the wildlife spotting can sometimes be challenging through the dense foliage. January is the low season safaris in Namibia and especially bird watching is excellent during this time of year, for the most part to see the pink plumes of the flamingo. It’s therefore not advisable to travel to the Zambezi Region (previously the Caprivi Strip) during the rainy months, as the area receives the most rainfall in Namibia and roads may be flooded.
Visiting Namibia In February
Travelling for Namibia safari in February?
Namibia in February experiences warm to hot weather, and similar to January, humid days and dramatic thunderstorms electrify the afternoon sky. You can expect average temperatures between 30-35°C, and up to 40°C in the desert.
If you can tolerate the rain, there’s plenty to enjoy especially if you are taking one of Namibia photographic safaris, the arid landscape becomes green and lush, providing some unique photographic opportunities.
If you choose to travel to Namibia during February we recommend exploring the coastal areas, such as Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, and southern regions as these areas are likely to experience more moderate temperatures and much less rain. Even though most of tourists usually take self-drive safaris in Namibia, keep in mind that the wet months of February to early April can present challenging self-drive conditions as heavy rains and flooding can damage roads, you can easily opt for a Namibia Flying Safari as the perfect option for February.
The month of February is also the calving season in Etosha National Park, and even though it’s a tricky time to spot wildlife, you could have the opportunity to see newborn calves.
Visiting Namibia In March
Travelling for Namibia safari in March?
March in Namibia is a transitional period, whereby Namibia steadily transitions from the hot and humid summer season to a cooler and drier winter, there is less rainfall in March, but it’s still hot and humid in the day with the nights starting to get cooler, characterized by warm temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), with the possibility of higher temperatures in desert areas.
The wet season gradually comes to an end in March, some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localised, afternoon thunderstorms, thereby March is not the best month for game viewing, but April is the best time to go to Namibia if you are a passionate photographer – the skies are clear and nature’s canvas beckons.
Visiting Namibia In April
Travelling for Namibia safari in April?
Namibia in April is predominantly sunny and dry, with average temperatures ranging from comfortable to moderately warm, making this month one of the most enjoyable for traveling in Namibia, safari photographers of all skill and experience levels will find this an excellent month to travel through the varied country where the skies are clear and nature’s canvas summons, offering lush and desert landscapes, attractive cities, and awe-inspiring expanses.
Furthermore, April is considered the shoulder season, a great month to explore the Namib Desert as the air is clear of dust. While the weather is generally good for travel, the conditions aren’t ideal for game viewing, one of the major draws to visiting Namibia in April.
Visiting Namibia In May
Travelling for Namibia safari in May?
Namibia in May presents the start of winter, there is little to no rainfall during the winter and humidity is low, with daytime temperatures are comfortably warm at 25 to 30°C, while nights can cool down to around 10°C. This is when wildlife start gathering around waterholes when rivers and other water sources dry up and water becomes scarce.
Mai is highly regarded as the best time to visit Namibia, as it marks the start of peak safari season. Expect cloudless blue skies, plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall throughout the country – the conditions are perfect for game drives.
Visiting Namibia In June
Travelling for Namibia safari in June?
Namibia in June is predominantly sunny, with clear blue skies providing excellent photographic safari conditions and a great time to spot African wildlife. The nights are getting cold and temperatures can drop dramatically to below 10°C (50°F), while desert areas can experience below freezing conditions. Daytime temperatures are pleasant however, with temperatures in the mid-20°Cs (70°Fs). Wildlife sightings are excellent in Etosha National Park and Ongava Game Reserve in June.
With the dry season in full swing, the weather is pleasant no likelihood of rainfall, the landscape becomes dry, and less dense making it much easier to spot wildlife, a good chance for an exciting luxury safari in Namibia.
Visiting Namibia In July
Travelling for Namibia safari in July?
Namibia in July is by far the driest and coolest month of the year, with daytime temperatures generally warmer in the northern regions, averaging around 25°C (77°F), but can drop dramatically to as low as 10°C (50°F) at night, meaning you’ll need to pack plenty of warm clothing if you are planning Namibia safaris during this period because game drives in open vehicles can very chilly.
July also marks one of the best times for travelling to Namibia and visiting the game parks since game-viewing in most areas is at its best, especially Etosha National Park.
Visiting Namibia In August
Travelling for Namibia safari in August?
Namibia in August welcomes the height of winter, characterized by a dry, sunny climate with very little or no rainfall, another fantastic month to visit Namibia with Day time temperatures are still fairly warm (average 20-23°C) although the nights can be very cold (average 6-9°C and even lower in the desert). July and August are the main winter months in the country thus a great time for outdoor desert activities such as wildlife watching, hiking, and exploring the vast desert landscapes.
Take note since this is a very popular time for travelling here, it’s best to book your accommodation in Namibia well in advance.
Visiting Namibia In September
Travelling for Namibia safari in September?
Namibia in September experiences comfortably warm days as the dry winter season continues, you can expect little to no rain throughout the country.
September is another lovely month and considered an ideal time to travel to Namibia. The weather is warm and dry, with low humidity, keeping a very a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation after a day of exploring. It’s a popular time to visit, but if you want to experience the Etosha National Park or the red dunes of Sossusvlei at their best and most comfortable, don’t hesitate to take this trip to Namibia on September.
Visiting Namibia In October
Travelling for Namibia safari in October?
October in Namibia is warm-to-hot, marking the last month of Namibia’s winter season. The weather starts to get warmer and there is a chance of rain, but the skies are generally still clear – expect average day time temperatures of 29°C (84°F) and night time temperatures of 15°C, good time for game viewing.
On your list of where to go in Namibia during this time of the month, consider visiting Etosha National Park and Ongava Game Reserve which is scarce during October, meaning that the wildlife is easier to spot because the country is so dry.
Additionally, about the things to do in Namibia during this period, go for whale watching on the coast as southern right, minke and humpback whales pass by the Walvis Bay area on their annual Atlantic migration.
Visiting Namibia In November
Travelling for Namibia safari in November?
Namibia in November is characterized by warm to hot temperatures, and can be quite unpredictable weather wise. On average, daytime temperatures are above 30°C (86°F), the heat continues to rise by November and it will be very hot; although humidity is still low – however on other days the sky can fill with heavy clouds and you may even experience a dramatic rainfall in the afternoon.
The low season for travel catches up, as the rainy season begins in November, and it becomes cooler across the country.
Visiting Namibia In December
Travelling for Namibia safari in December?
Namibia in December is characterized by clearer, sunnier skies at the beginning of the month, summer has set in and temperatures increase throughout the country which often give way to brief, short afternoon showers which often don’t last for long leaving the skies clear again by early evening.
If you are in Namibia for Christmas, spend your time at the bone-dry dunes of Sossusvlei, the foggy Skeleton Coast, or embrace the heat and go bird-watching in the Caprivi Strip which is excellent from November to February – during this time, the migrant birds begin to arrive with the rainy season and more than 450 species of birds are recorded in the area.
Given December is also a rewarding time for the low season safaris in Namibia, enjoy the low number of tourists crowds and also lower safari prices during this period. Talking about the top attractions in Namibia, you may start with Etosha National Park where game –viewing is at its best in December.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Visit to Namibia?
Not yet close to finding your best time to travel to Namibia? Worry not, chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.
Discover Kenya Holiday Safaris
When it comes to choosing the best places for an African safari, it’s difficult to beat a safari to Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. Kenya delivers some of the best African safaris so far, from unforgettable African family safaris with child-friendly safari lodges to exclusive hide-outs for couples and honeymoon trips, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari.
9 Days | 8 Nights
Frequently Asked Namibia Holiday Safari Questions
Q. Passport, Visa & Other Kenya Entry Requirements
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia – www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada – travel.gc.ca
EU Member States – ec.europa.eu
Ireland – www.ireland.ie
New Zealand – www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom – www.gov.uk
United States – travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. What medication do I need for Kenya safari?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. Where to stay on safari in Kenya
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. Where are the places to visit in Kenya?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Namibia Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
Namibia Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
Namibia Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.