Namibia is one of the leading tourist destinations in Africa, but what is the best time to visit the South African country? From major landmarks to beautiful places and famous tourist attractions, Namibia has several must-see destinations and is more diverse than you ever imagined.
Namibia is a tourist-friendly country and is also known for its abundance of wildlife. A visit to the country will leave you stunned by the sheer number of elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes. It is one of the most scarcely populated countries in Africa, making it a top destination for every traveller.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Namibia?
The best time to visit this South African country is from July to October. This is when the temperatures are just above 20 degrees Celsius and the chance of rain is low. This is also the best time for wildlife viewing in the country which is one of the leading tourist destinations. During this period, the risk of contracting malaria is at its lowest and animals are increasingly concentrated around the water points.
Hiking is best planned for the cooler winter months from May to October to avoid the summertime heat. During October, the green vegetation fades away and the heat gradually builds up. Temperatures during the day can reach 29 degrees Celsius and it even gets hotter in the desert. However, coastal exploration is easier in the summer from December to March, when winds are gentler and there is less fog.
Best time to visit Namibia. Photo/ The Unconventional Route.
If you want to visit Namibia at the start of the year, it’s worth noting that temperatures in most parts of the country are hot. Some parts of the country experience heavy afternoon showers, which make Etosha National Park green and lush. As a result, wildlife spotting can be quite challenging through the dense foliage.
However, bird watching can be good during this period of time. You get the opportunity to see the pink plumes of the flamingo. Ensure you avoid the Zambezi region during this period because the roads may be flooded and there is a higher risk of malaria.
Is Namibia a Cheap Country to Visit?
If you’re wondering how much a trip to Namibia costs, then look no further because we have the information you need. Namibia is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Africa and it all depends on factors such as time, chosen method of transport and accommodation preference.
According to Nomadic Matt, you can average about $45 USD a day for food, transport, accommodation, and campsites. If you’re staying in dorm beds, taking the train and cooking all your own meals, your budget can be between $20 and $30 USD per day. However, the amount can rise to between $45 and $90 a day if you want to camp and get outside the main cities.
Tips For Traveling in Namibia
Apart from considering the best time to visit Namibia, you also need to know some tips before visiting the South African country.
Visiting Namibia. Photo/ Go2Africa.
- Prebook in the high season – Namibia’s high season runs from mid-May to mid-November. We recommend you make your bookings for these months ahead of time. If you wait until the high season, you may challenges in finding rooms since the hotels are full.
- Learn How to Change Tyres – Well, by now, you should know that Namibia has some of the roughest roads in Africa. So, you should learn to change tyres for you to travel without having the fear of being stuck on the road for hours while waiting for a mechanic.
- Do Not Drive at Night – There are no streetlights on most Namibian roads. As a result, avoid night driving if you can. It is advisable that you find a place to rest to avoid accidents.
- Carry Cash With You – In Namibia, you can withdraw cash in Windhoek, Luderitz, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Since credit cards aren’t widely accepted, ensure you withdraw cash in the above-mentioned towns or any other place where withdrawals can be made.
- Take Care of Your Belongings – If you’re in Namibia, ensure you take good care of your belongings, such as cell phones, cameras, and laptops. These gadgets should be protected from the dry air and dust.
