Best time to visit Namibia & Botswana
Climate and weather
Best time to travel & weather guide in Namibia & Botswana
In Namibia and Botswana, the seasons are the opposite of those in the UK – during our winter it is summer and vice versa. Although you can travel to Namibia and Botswana year-round, we find they are best explored between May and October, during the dry season, when there are better opportunities for wildlife spotting, and roads are more passable.
These months are very popular with travellers however so accommodation fills up quickly, especially during July and August, so we recommend booking well in advance to avoid limited availability.
Travelling to Namibia and Botswana in dry season (May-October)
As the name suggests, you will find the weather during these months is dry and wildlife is easier to spot. The days remain warm with temperatures around 20–35°C, but during July and August the nights can be chilly at 0–5°C, especially in the desert, and are therefore less suitable for camping.
September and October are prime months for safari and wildlife spotting as animals congregate around permanent water sources, providing incredible game-viewing opportunities. Earlier in the season, during April or May, you’ll experience lush green landscapes left behind by the recent rainy season.
Travelling to Namibia and Botswana in rainy season (November-April)
The rainy season from November to April sees green landscapes, lush vegetation and blooming wildflowers. Birdwatching is excellent, and you might witness young animals being born during this time. It is also quieter at this time of year, with fewer crowds and better availability.
January and February experience the heaviest rainfall, which can make some areas harder to access and safaris are less predictable as animals disperse with the abundance of water. Daytime temperatures sit around 30–40°C with the nights rarely dropping below 15°C, expect hot and humid weather with some thunderstorms.
