Getting to grips with the Namibian Weather
Did you know that Namibia is one of the sunniest countries on the planet? And did you know that travelling through the desert each day can be quite taxing on your body?
Adjusting to the climate is not necessarily something you have to do if you want to spend only one or two weeks in the desert, but to brave the heat and sometimes the humidity as well, it helps to have some tips at your disposal.
Namibia’s climate can vary greatly from place to place. There are some areas where the heat is simply hot and dry, while there are other parts where the temperatures are high and the air is filled with humidity.
For the most part, Namibia is considered to be a subtropical desert. There is a huge difference between the day time and night time temperatures and the rainfall is also quite low overall. The country has summer and winter at opposite times of the year as North America and Europe, which is important to remember when planning your trip.
Travelling in the Dry Season
Although Namibia doesn’t get all that much rain throughout the year, it gets enough to have a wet season and a dry season. The dry season is from about May to October, which are the winter months. There will be just about no rainfall during this time and humidity is also likely to be very low. During this time of the year, the wildlife flock to the various water sources, like rivers and waterholes, and sightings of wildlife grow towards the end of the season, as water sources dwindle.
May heralds the end of summer and although the rain is gone, the green bush remains. The nights aren’t frigid yet and the day time temperatures are still quite pleasant. From June, the temperatures drop drastically and by July or August, the country is in the middle of winter.
By the end of August and into September, the days start heating up again and the skies clear, bringing along with it the heat and eventually the rain.
Most guests will plan their Namibia holiday during the dry season, given the fact the weather is more comfortable and the wildlife sightings increase. When travelling during this time of the year, it is best to pack some winter clothing, although a huge winter jacket, the type you’d wear to keep warm during a snow fall, is not necessary.
Travelling in the Wet Season
The limited rain completely transforms the country, bringing out the new shoots as well as some unique desert flowers.
In November, the heat starts rising fast and the days get intense. But although the heat is there, the uncomfortable humidity does not accompany it. As the summer progresses, the clouds start rolling in, and with it comes the first rains, generally in December.
January and February are considered midsummer and it is during this time that the temperatures are unbearably high and accompanied by high humidity. Many summer afternoons end with downpours.
By March and April, the heat slowly dissipates and the rain leaves behind it cool weather. The nights will also start getting colder.
Most people will not enjoy travelling in Namibia during the height of the summer months, but for those who do, there are a few perks such as the beautiful vegetation and spectacular thunderstorms. If you wish to travel in the summer, make sure that you pack light clothing and plenty of water.
