In the Kalahari summers are intensely hot, while winter nights can dip below freezing. Both seasons offer great wildlife viewing, but birdwatching is particularly rewarding during the green season.
Summer highs in the Kalahari can reach 45°C (115 °F) and the nighttime temperatures hover around the 25°C mark (80°F).
Winter days are warm and dry with temperatures around the mid-20s Celsius occasionally venturing into the 30s (70 - 90°F). Winter nights and early mornings are cold, dropping to single digits Celsius and occasionally dropping below freezing (50 - 25°F).
For most of the year, the Kalahari is dry and arid featuring classic golden grasses against the ochre sand. The landscape turns green during the rainy summer from January to March with sporadic showers and thunderstorms that vanish as quickly as they appear. Photography is best during and after the rainy season with clear light and saturated contrasts.
Weather: Peak summer, hot with occasional rain.
Temperature: 20°C to 38°C.
Highlights: The rains bring greenery and attract wildlife, but daytime heat can be intense.
Weather: Warm and humid, with scattered thunderstorms.
Temperature: 19°C to 37°C.
Highlights: Vibrant landscapes and dramatic skies; wildlife activity increases near water sources.
Weather: Late summer, slightly cooler with less rain.
Temperature: 17°C to 34°C.
Highlights: The vegetation begins to dry out, making wildlife easier to spot.
Weather: Transition to autumn, cooler and dry.
Temperature: 15°C to 30°C.
Highlights: Comfortable weather for game drives and exploring the desert.
Weather: Start of winter, dry with chilly nights.
Temperature: 10°C to 27°C.
Highlights: The Kalahari's iconic red dunes stand out against the clear skies.
Weather: Mid-winter, cold nights and mild days.
Temperature: 5°C to 25°C.
Highlights: Crisp, clear mornings and excellent wildlife viewing in the cooler weather.
Weather: Coldest month, with frosty nights and sunny days.
Temperature: 3°C to 23°C.
Highlights: Ideal conditions for walking safaris, but bring warm clothing for early mornings and evenings.
Weather: Late winter, starting to warm up.
Temperature: 6°C to 27°C.
Highlights: The dry season continues, making it easier to spot animals gathering around waterholes.
Weather: Early spring, warmer days and cool nights.
Temperature: 10°C to 30°C.
Highlights: Wildlife is highly active, and the landscape is bathed in golden light.
Weather: Hot and dry, with summer approaching.
Temperature: 15°C to 35°C.
Highlights: Increasing heat, but mornings and evenings remain pleasant for outdoor activities.
Weather: Very hot with the possibility of early rains.
Temperature: 18°C to 37°C.
Highlights: The start of the rainy season brings relief from the heat and a burst of greenery.
Weather: Peak summer, hot with scattered thunderstorms.
Temperature: 20°C to 38°C.
Highlights: Rain transforms the desert, creating stunning scenery and attracting migratory birds.
"We loved our experience with NTS"
We loved Namibia and its unique landscapes and kind people. It was certainly an adventure and a privilege to get to spend time there.
"We can't wait to return"
I can't thank you enough for helping to put together this trip. It exceeded all our expectations and we fell in love with your country.
"We had a wonderful time in Namibia"
All in all we had a wonderful time and appreciate the effort made to ensure all aspects of our tour ran smoothly with prompt email support where needed.
"What a wonderful journey we had in beautiful and friendly Namibia!"
Namibia has stolen our travel-heart and you can consider us as new ambassadors of this spectacular country.
