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Summer in Namibia

Q: When to go in Namibia?

The best time to go to Namibia is during the dry season, between April and November: it's warm and sunny throughout the country. Those readers with allergies would be better off, however, putting off their trip until the first few weeks of November or the month of April: there may be showers here and there, but they won't stop you enjoying the trip and you'll run into fewer tourists. Do make sure, however, to avoid the rainy season.

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What to do in Namibia?

Welcome to the holiday in Namibia pages. Namibia is a large country located in south west Africa. Known to many Brits as a member of the Commonwealth, this country, which gained its independence in 1990, deserves to be famous! Did you know that Namibia has the highest dunes in the world? Or that the sun shines 300 days a year? Its size is around a third of that of the UK and its wildlife a savage paradise... … Trust us, you certainly won’t be disappointed by a trip to Namibia! In a country called, until recently, South West Africa, you'll spot lions, elephants and giraffes in well organised natural reserves that you can also explore at your own will. You can fly over deserts and coastlines, feel your hackles rise in forests charred over 1,000 years ago, or explore one of the largest canyons in the world ... One thing's for sure, your trip to Namibia will be unforgettable, whether you're on a family holiday or travelling solo.

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When to go in Namibia?

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Start planning your summer trip to Namibia

Namibia is an ideal year-round destination with its hot climate and generally dry days. But summer in Namibia is especially excellent for viewing its famed wildlife in their natural habitats, as they're attracted by the added vegetation that’s available. With the tremendous Namib desert and extensive Atlantic coastline, there’s plenty to enjoy during a summer trip to Namibia.

Why should I visit Namibia in the summer?

The summer months in Namibia last from November to February and are mostly dry and hot. The scenery is usually at its greenest at this time of year, and you'll also have a good chance of spotting baby animals and migratory birds. Whether it's gorgeous sand dunes or historically rich cities with German architecture, Namibia offers a different kind of travel experience that sets it apart from its regional neighbors.

The best things to do in Namibia in summer

Even for veteran travelers, Namibia in the summer presents plenty of new and exhilarating adventures. Here's some of the top picks for a fun summer trip to Namibia.

Go searching for elephants in the desert

Damaraland is one of the best places to see something truly special. Here, hardy herds of elephants have defied nature's odds and adapted to a dry, harsh desert lifestyle. This region is located between the Skeleton Coast and Etosha National Park, making it an ideal stop off between the two. You'll also see gemsbok, kudu, black rhinos, and springboks roaming around Damaraland.

Swakopmund's sea breezes and fresh seafood

A beach resort community, Swakopmund is Namibia's second-largest city, located between the Namib Desert and the roaring Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy great seafood from the nearby waters, and take part in extreme sports like quad biking and skydiving.

Climb the Namib-Naukluft National Park’s sand dunes

Located south of Swakopmund, these massive formations are UNESCO World Heritage-listed and are the biggest of their type in the world. To truly appreciate their sheer size and beauty, make the climb up and down their ridges before sunrise. It’s often too hot here by 10am, so it’s well worth the early wake-up call.

Explore Mount Erongo

This granite peak was formed from an extinct volcano, and today it makes a great place for nature walks. The geology of the surrounding lands, as well as cave formations and ancient rock art, are some of the most exciting discoveries here.

Visit the dramatic Skeleton Coast

Located along the Atlantic coast, this region is a place for true adventure. In this sparsely populated region, you'll find various shipwrecks and unique ecosystems that are home to seal colonies, baboons, giraffes, and jackals in inland riverbed areas.

What’s the weather like in Namibia in the summer?

The average daytime temperatures during a Namibian summer are around 85°F, and are often higher in the desert regions and around 20° cooler on the coast. The beginning and end of the summer tend to be the rainiest times of the year, but rainfall is usually short in duration. Remember to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.