Namibia
Summer (December - March): Expect hot days, with average temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Nights remain warm, typically between 17°C and 20°C (63°F and 68°F). This period marks the rainy season, bringing short, intense thunderstorms, especially in January and February. Humidity rises during this time but generally stays low compared to tropical regions.
Autumn (April - May): Temperatures turn pleasant, averaging 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Rainfall significantly decreases, leading to clearer skies. Nights begin to cool, settling between 12°C and 15°C (54°F and 59°F). This season offers comfortable climate for city exploration and represents a transition from the wet to the dry period.
High Season (July - October): Dry weather, excellent for wildlife viewing (animals gather around waterholes, easier to spot). Pleasant daytime temperatures make touring comfortable. Low malaria chance, particularly for northern regions. However, prices for accommodation and tours are higher. Attractions and popular sites might present more crowds. Cold nights call for warmer clothing for early morning activities. Book well in advance during this period.
Shoulder Season (April - June, November): Good weather, with fewer crowds than high season. Prices for accommodation and tours may be better. Landscapes stay lush after the rains (April-May), with beautiful photographic opportunities and good birdwatching. Early shoulder season (April-May) might still experience sporadic rain. November can see very hot temperatures before the full rainy season, which some travelers find uncomfortable.
Hot & Humid, Rain, Fewer Crowds
Lowest prices for accommodation and tours. Fewer tourists create a more secluded experience. Dramatic thunderstorms provide stunning photographic moments.
Hot and humid conditions. Risk of heavy rainfall, though downpours are usually short-lived. Some rural roads can become impassable, though less common for major routes to or from Windhoek.
Good Weather, Fewer Crowds
Good weather, with fewer crowds than the high season. Better prices for accommodation and tours. Lush landscapes after rains (April-May), great for photography and birdwatching.
Early shoulder season might still experience sporadic rain. November can be very hot, which some travelers find uncomfortable.
Dry Weather, Wildlife Viewing, Crowds
Dry weather, excellent for wildlife viewing (animals gather around waterholes). Pleasant daytime temperatures. Low malaria chance if traveling north.
Higher prices for accommodation and tours. Attractions and popular sites experience more crowds. Cold nights call for warmer clothing, especially for early morning activities.
While rains are typically short and intense, they bring flash floods in low-lying areas. This usually impacts rural roads more than Windhoek's city center, but caution is advisable. Daytime temperatures in summer and early spring may go over 35°C (95°F). Winter nights can drop below 0°C (32°F), calling for warm clothing.
Due to Windhoek's high altitude, the sun's UV index frequently goes high. Sunburn can happen quickly, even on cloudy days.
April-May or September-October for pleasant temperatures and comfortable conditions.
July-October are prime viewing months. Animals congregate around dwindling water sources.
July-October has clear skies and stark contrasts, showing true desert beauty.
Rainy season (December-March) brings migratory birds; water sources are abundant.
Entry requirements vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. This category includes most Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, Germany, France, Italy, the USA, and the UK. Always check the current list on the official Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security website prior to your trip. This list changes.
Your passport is your most important document. It must maintain validity for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and include at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Airlines and immigration officials enforce this rule strictly.
Checking the official Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs website prior to planning your trip is advisable. Requirements change. Keep digital copies of all your documents on your phone and in a cloud service.
Effective budgeting guides expense management during your Windhoek visit. Costs vary widely depending on your travel style.
The official currency counts as the Namibian Dollar (NAD). The Namibian Dollar maintains a 1:1 peg to the South African Rand (ZAR). This means one Namibian Dollar always equals one South African Rand. The South African Rand is also legal tender throughout Namibia. You use ZAR notes and coins for purchases. However, Namibian Dollars are not legal tender in South Africa. If you acquire NAD, plan to spend them all in Namibia before you leave or exchange them back.
Currency exchange at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) upon arrival, at commercial banks, and at Bureaux de Change in Windhoek city center. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available in Windhoek for cash withdrawals. They are located at banks, shopping malls, and petrol stations. Inform your bank prior to travel of your card usage abroad to prevent blocking. Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) see acceptance at most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Smaller establishments, local markets, and shared taxis often only accept cash. It is always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases and emergencies.
Daily cost: Approximately NAD 600 - 1,000 (US$30 - 55). This budget includes staying in hostel dorms or basic guesthouses. You would eat at local eateries, street food stalls, or buy groceries for self-catering. Use public transport, mainly shared taxis (combis). Focus on visiting free or low-cost attractions.
Low accommodation costs, inexpensive food options.
Limited comfort, reliance on local public transport.
Daily cost: Approximately NAD 1,500 - 2,500 (US$80 - 135). This budget allows for comfortable guesthouse or mid-range hotel accommodation. Dine at standard restaurants, enjoying a mix of local and international cuisine. Use metered taxis or ride-share apps for transport. Cover entrance fees for various attractions and museums.
Comfortable stays, diverse dining, reliable transport.
Higher costs compared to budget travel, still mindful of expenses.
Daily cost: Approximately NAD 3,000+ (US$160+). This budget covers stays at high-end hotels or luxury lodges. Enjoy fine dining experiences. Use private transfers and curated tours. Engage in premium activities and experiences.
Top-tier accommodation, exclusive experiences, private transport.
Higher overall trip cost.
| Category | Type/Item | Estimated Price (NAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostel Dorm Bed | 200 - 350 |
| Meals | Mid-range Restaurant Meal | 150 - 300 |
| Transportation | Shared Taxi (Combi) | 15 - 30 per ride |
This section covers important medical and security considerations.
Certificate for travelers from or transiting high-risk Yellow Fever countries.
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, routine vaccinations.
Prophylaxis may be for northern regions. Discuss with a medical professional.
Stay Hydrated: Windhoek's climate is dry, sun intense. Drink plenty of water. Use Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), Wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Practice good food and water hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. Eat only well-cooked food served hot. Avoid raw or unpeeled fruits and vegetables unless you can wash and peel them yourself or they originate from reputable establishments. Do not approach or feed wild animals, even those that seem tame.
Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade. Recognize symptoms of heat stroke like dizziness, nausea, and headache. While Windhoek has low malaria risk, other insects bite. Use Insect repellent, especially in the evenings, if venturing outside the city or if you are sensitive to bites.
Access to Healthcare: Windhoek has good private medical facilities (Lady Pohamba Private Hospital, Rhino Park Hospital) offering higher standards of care. Pharmacies are well-stocked. Tap water in Windhoek is generally safe to drink.
Windhoek is generally safe for tourists during the day. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) can occur in crowded areas like markets, bus stations, and the CBD.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit or deserted streets. Use licensed taxis or ride-share services after dark.
Secure valuables; avoid openly displaying expensive items. Keep cash and cards in a secure place. Lock car doors, even when driving, and keep bags out of sight. Areas like Katutura may have higher crime rates; consider visiting with a local guide.
Namibia is an arid country, and droughts count as a recurring natural phenomenon. Water conservation is always important. During the rainy season (Dec-Mar), sudden heavy downpours cause localized flash flooding in low-lying areas. This temporarily influences road access, especially rural gravel roads. Stay informed about weather conditions. Extreme heat occurs, especially in spring and summer. Follow sun and dehydration prevention strategies.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation to a facility that can provide appropriate care (which may locate outside Namibia). Make sure your policy covers trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss, and personal liability. If you plan adventure activities (e.g., hiking, game drives), be sure your policy specifically covers these. Review the policy details carefully.
Covers emergencies and evacuation.
Includes cancellation, interruption, baggage loss.
Specific coverage for adventure activities (if planned).
