The Best Time to Go on a Namibia Safari: A Seasonal Guide
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Discover the best time to go on a Namibia safari with this comprehensive seasonal guide. From dry season to green season, we've got you covered. Namibia is a stunning destination for a safari adventure, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. But when is the best time to go? This seasonal guide will help you plan your trip, whether you prefer the dry season for optimal game viewing or the green season for lush scenery, fewer crowds.
There is never a bad time to experience Namibia's wilderness. Each season offers something unique. Keep reading to understand what time of year is best for you.
November - March: The Green Season
While the dry season may be the most popular time to go on a Namibia safari, the green season (November to March) has its own unique advantages. This is when the landscape transforms into a lush green paradise, with wildflowers blooming and newborn animals frolicking about. It is also the best time for photographers, as the soft light and dramatic skies make for stunning shots.
December - February is summer in Namibia, and it can get very hot, with temperatures reaching the high 30 degrees Celsius. While heat can certainly add to the desert atmosphere if you don't do well with the heat, we recommend either the shoulder seasons or dry seasons.
November - March is the most affordable time to travel to Namibia, and while the heat keeps away the majority of tourists, it also makes prices very affordable.
Shoulder Seasons (April to May)
The shoulder seasons in Namibia offer a great balance between the two distinctive dry and green seasons.
The first shoulder season is between April to May and marks the end of the rainy season. The landscape is still lush and green, but the rains have subsided, making it easier to navigate the roads. The temperature is very pleasant at this time, with April daytime highs reaching about 25 degrees and May daytime temperatures averaging 20 degrees.
The second shoulder season of the year - November is the end of the dry season, and temperatures are still mild but starting to creep up. Maximum temperatures will still only reach a very comfortable 30 degrees. Water sources are hard to come by in November, and wildlife is actively searching for available water sources.
The shoulder seasons allow you to enjoy the best qualities of the green and dry seasons, with good weather conditions but without difficulty finding availability during the peak winter months. Lodges and operators typically offer discounted rates for travel during the shoulder season, and there is real value for travellers during this time.
The Dry Season (May to October)
The dry season is considered the best time to go on a Namibia safari, as the lack of rain forces animals to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Temperatures are also cooler during this time, making it more comfortable for both travellers and animals. However, it is important to note that this is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
When we say crowds, it is important to note that Namibia receives much fewer tourists than it deserves. Even during the busy season, you will still enjoy Namibia's peaceful and quiet vibe. If you plan to travel between May & October, booking early to secure your preferred lodges is important. Namibia is not built for mass tourism, and even its most popular attractions, such as Sossusvlei, only offer a small number of very high-quality accommodation options.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Wildlife viewing in Namibia is excellent year-round, and Namibia offers some truly unique wildlife experiences. In particular, spotting desert-adapted species amongst the harsh rocky and sandy landscapes is one of the truly special wildlife experiences that only Namibia can offer.
June to October is the best time to see wildlife in Namibia as the limited water means wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making them easier to spot. You can expect to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and many other species.
No matter what time of year you visit, Namibia's wildlife will leave you in awe, from the incredible diversity of Etosha's wildlife to the challenge of finding elusive desert-adapted species.
