About Hoodia Desert Lodge
Dwarfed by the majesty of the Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge is both welcoming and stylish.
It’s a winning combination at this owner-managed lodge, where Thomas and Henreza Becker are often on hand to greet their guests with a cool drink after a dusty journey through the desert.
Freshening up is next on the agenda, perhaps in the small pool sculpted into natural rock, perhaps in the privacy of your spacious air-conditioned chalet, where a powerful shower awaits. Or take indulgence to another level and luxuriate in the decadence of your own open-air bath.
Then relax on your shaded veranda and take in the views – whether of the ephemeral Tsauchab River or across the plains to the mountains.
If the setting is special, so is the restaurant, where delicious traditional and international cuisine is accompanied by a selection of South African wines, matched by attentive service. Tables are set around a large fireplace, which in summer morphs into a barbecue, while centre stage are the views, best seen from the outside terrace which doubles as a good spot for birdwatching, and a superb sundowner spot.
Explore the immediate surroundings on foot, but to make the most of the iconic desert surroundings, look at the full-day excursion. With excellent interpretive guides and a superb picnic lunch, it’s a real highlight of your Namib experience.
Our view
Hoodia Desert Lodge's friendly staff offer attentive service and delicious food in a beautiful setting. The atmosphere of the lodge is tranquil, and it feels quite luxurious without being stuffy. So although it's not the closest lodge to the dunes, travellers looking for these particular attributes should find it an excellent and stylish base from which to explore the Sossusvlei area.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
11 tented chalets
Children
Best for 14+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Traveller reviews of Hoodia Desert Lodge
232 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 66 pictures of Hoodia Desert Lodge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Hoodia Desert Lodge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Brown Hyena Self-drive
14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
The perfect trip for those who want to mix the adventure and freedom of a self-drive with some of our favourite luxury camps in Namibia and a great mix of activities.
Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 5 other areas
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Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari
19 days • 10 locations • 2 country
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.
Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 7 other areas
US$4,200 - US$4,310 per person
Pelican Fly & Drive Safari
10 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.
Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 3 other areas
US$7,650 - US$8,710 per person
Chongololo Self-drive Safari
21 days • 11 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.
Visiting Central Highlands, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas
US$9,100 - US$10,040 per person
Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari
14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.
Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas
US$5,440 - US$5,840 per person
Hoodia Desert Lodge: Our full report
Set at the foot of the Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge overlooks the ephemeral Tsauchab River.
It was opened in 2008 by owner-managers Thomas and Henreza Becker, an easy 22km drive to Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei. The name comes from the flowering cactus, which dots the surrounding plains that seem to go on forever.
On arrival at Hoodia Desert Lodge you are greeted, often by Thomas or Henreza, with a refreshing cold towel and a glass of homemade iced tea, followed by a welcome talk before being shown to your room.
Mountains tower above the well-spaced row of 11 tented chalets under thatch, each boasting both indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a shaded veranda and a personal parking area. Inside, windows along the side walls admit plenty of light, and there are plans to open up the front walls to take better advantage of the superb views. The décor is in warm shades of brown with white bed linen and a scattering of colourful cushions, while facilities include a tea- and coffee-making station, air conditioning, a small fridge (filled on request) and a safe, as well as a mosquito net over the beds. All the chalets face either the river or the plains and far mountains, perfect for watching the sunset, but the best for uninterrupted sunset views is chalet no 1, which is the last in the row.
Both the indoor and outdoor bathrooms at Hoodia are decorated in a warm terracotta colour with decorative mosaics on the walls and copper taps. The indoor bathroom has a powerful shower, two handbasins, and a separate toilet. Double doors lead to the outside bathroom, which incorporates a changing area as well as an open-air bath and shower, and is designed so that guests can see out without being seen from nearby chalets. Guests are provided with complimentary toiletries and large fluffy white towels.
Hoodia Desert Lodge has a large lounge built under thatch that doubles as a reception area. The furniture is a fairly eclectic mix of styles and splashes of colour, arranged into separate sitting areas; we think the result is quite stylish! But it was the artwork – beautiful paintings by an artist friend of the owner – that really caught our eye on our most recent stay.
Down a few steps from the lounge is the restaurant, which offers superb traditional and international cuisine accompanied by a wide selection of South African wines. The service in the restaurant is great, with attentive and knowledgeable staff always on hand. Wooden chairs and tables are arranged around a large central fireplace that doubles as a barbecue in summer, while glass doors and windows allow for fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. These open up onto the outside terrace, overlooking the Tsauchab River: a good spot for birdwatching, as well as for sundowners or drinks after dinner. On our last visit we weren’t able to stay for any meals, but incredibly friendly and efficient staff made us a fantastic cappuccino, possibly the best coffee of our trip.
A short wooden walkway leads down some steps to a small swimming pool, set in a raised deck and sculpted into natural rock.
Hoodia Desert Lodge offers a range of activities, at extra cost, including a tranquil and rewarding sundowner on a nearby mountain and a full-day guided excursion to Namib Sand Sea. This trip takes in Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and Sesriem Canyon, and is a real highlight of any stay at Hoodia. The knowledge and quality of the guides really adds to the experience. We particularly enjoyed the 'living desert' section of the trip where you are shown some of the unique desert-adapted creatures of the Namib, such as spiders and lizards, and the geology of the area is explained. After a morning exploring the dunes, a beautifully presented picnic lunch provided a welcome stop to refuel in a truly stunning setting before finishing the day off in Sesriem Canyon. This is a much longer visit to the dunes than offered by many of the camps, and really helps you to get a complete feeling of the area.
Alternatively, self-drive guests can drive themselves to Sossusvlei and Seriem Canyon; it's just 22km from the lodge to the entrance at Sesriem. Guests who do this should be aware that due to the volume of traffic on the roads leading to the park the surface can be severely rutted and corrugated, so extra care should be taken when driving this stretch.
It’s also possible to walk in the riverbed and hills in the immediate vicitity of the camp. There are no specifically marked trails here, but the camp is easily visible, and it would be very tricky to get lost.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- We recommend at least two nights at Hoodia to fit in a visit to the Sossusvlei dunes and Sesriem Canyon, especially if you plan to take their guided excursion as it returns to the lodge about mid-afternoon. You'll need a day or two longer if you plan to go on a hot-air balloon flight or a day trip into the Namib Naukluft Mountains to do some hiking.
- Directions
- Hoodia Desert Lodge is located on the C19, half way between its junction with the D854 and its junction with the C27. Turn off from the road then follow the track for 6km towards the mountains.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- The meals we've enjoyed at Hoodia Desert Lodge have been delicious. The lodge can cater for special dietary requirements, as long as they are informed in advance.
Between 06:30 and 10:00 a buffet breakfast features a selection of cereals, bread, fruits, yoghurts and pastries. Hot breakfasts, such as bacon and eggs, are cooked to order.
A light lunch is available at extra cost, or is included as part of the Soussesvlei excursion.
Dinner is served from 18:30 onwards and on our most recent visit, dinner was well presented, delicious and filling. Our starter was a lovely leek and bacon quiche. For a main course we had tasty kudu and bell-pepper kebabs, with fresh broccoli and couscous. Dessert was pannacotta, which rounded of the meal nicely! - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Yes
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included. We are told that the water is fine to drink, but bottled water is available from the bar, and there are usually a couple of complimentary bottles of water in each room.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children over the age of 12 are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Hoodia Desert Lodge accepts children over the age of 12.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- While children over 12 are welcome at Hoodia Desert Lodge, there is little to keep younger guests occupied here when not on excursions or participating in activities. On our most recent visit, we also felt that the lodge had a very adult atmosphere and would be unlikely to suit a family with younger children.
- Notes
- The pool is unfenced and there are no depth markings, although we were told it's around 1.7m at its deepest point. Children must be supervised at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Hoodia Desert Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Hoodia Desert Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
89% success
31% success
29% success
10% success
8% success
5% success
5% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a back-up generator in case the mains power fails. There are plug points in all the rooms and adaptors are normally available to borrow, on request. The room lights are run using solar power.
- Communications
- Due to the lodge's location, cellphone reception is very weak and intermittent. They have installed a booster in the main area, so that's usually where you'll get the best reception. There is complimentary, but very slow, WiFi available in the main area.
- TV & radio
- There is a television with satellite in the bar area of the main building, but on our most recent visit this wasn't working and was awaiting repairs.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The indoor and outdoor showers, as well as the outdoor bathtubs in all the rooms, are plumbed in. The lodge has flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The lodge is 220km from the nearest hospital in Windhoek; but there is a nurse based at Sesriem for any minor ailments and the guides at Hoodia are first-aid trained.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- All buildings are locked at night, but there is no guard. Each chalet has an air horn, which can be used to attract attention in an emergency.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers and hoses are situated in the main building. There is also a fire extinguisher outside each chalet.
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available on request. This is charged per item in accordance with a list found in the rooms, and will be returned with in 24 hours.
- Money
- There is a small safe in each room to store valuables.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash payments in South African rand and Namibian dollars are accepted, as are Visa and Mastercard, but travellers' cheques are not.
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Hoodia Desert Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Hoodia Desert Lodge.
Excursions from Hoodia Desert Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Hoodia Desert Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Ballooning in the Namib Desert
Half day, including breakfast
Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.
More about Ballooning
Hoodia Sossusvlei excursion
Full day, including lunch
Escape the crowds and experience the iconic and beautiful Namib Sand Sea with an experienced guide from Hoodia Desert Lodge. The approach is personal and the guiding knowledgeable, making your introduction to the highlights of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, including Sesriem Canyon and the famous pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, both interesting and unhurried.
More about Hoodia excursion
Scenic flights in Namibia
Variable, depending on the flight
Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.
More about Scenic flightsOther lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Kulala Desert Lodge
The comfortable Kulala Desert Lodge offers fantastic views of the Namib and a private gate to the Namib-Naukluft Park - a bonus on guided excursions.
BullsPort Lodge & Farm
A traditional Namibian farm, BullsPort offers warm hospitality and a genuine rural experience, with excellent hiking and horseriding.
Sossus Dune Lodge
One of only two properties inside the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location, for visiting the dunes.
Desert Homestead
With great-value accommodation in a lovely setting, Desert Homestead is a great base for exploring Sossusvlei.
Little Kulala
A high-end lodge with spectacular views, Little Kulala, makes a great base for visits to Sossusvlei or a balloon ride over the Desert.
Rostock Ritz
The igloo-style chalets at Rostock Ritz offer exceptional desert views and make a convenient stopover between Swakopmund & Sossusvlei.
Barkhan Dune Retreat
Barkhan Dune Retreat is a welcoming lodge close to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, majors on hiking and relaxation.
Sossusvlei Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge is one of the larger options in this area. However, it occupies a convenient location next to the Sesriem gate into the Namib-Naukluft Park.
Namib Outpost
About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.
Dead Valley Lodge
Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.
Desert Camp
Desert Camp is an economical option for independent travellers who want to self-cater, and is well situated for access to Sossusvlei.
Desert Quiver Camp
Desert Quiver Camp is an economical option self-catering, well located for access to Sossusvlei.
Elegant Desert Lodge
Elegant Desert Lodge can be used as a base to visit Sossusvlei. It offers comfortable accommodation and facilities in the desert.
Corona Guest Farm
In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.
Namib Desert Lodge
Namib Desert Lodge is a good budget option in the Namib-Naukluft although, it is further from Sossusvlei than we'd typically suggest.
Sonop
Away from the hustle and bustle of the area immediately surrounding Sossussvlei, Sonop offers a luxurious stay in a remote part of the Namib Desert.
Camp Sossus
Camp Sossus is a offers top notch guiding in a remote wilderness area of the Naukluft Mountains with easy access to the famous dunes of Sossusvlei.
Desert Hills Camp
Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Resort and Spa offers accommodation and a range of massage and beauty treatments in a Moroccan-style building in the desert.
Desert Grace
A stylish offering giving access to the famous dunes in the Namib-Naukluft National Park as well as to activities on a private nature reserve.
When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Hoodia Desert Lodge in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namib-Naukluft National Park in January
January marks the start of the main rainy season. The Sossusvlei area may experience localised thunderstorms, creating a striking contrast against the red dunes. The Tsauchab River might flow, running through the usually dry Sesriem Canyon and out onto the desert sands. The landscape begins to green, offering a refreshing change and a beautiful backdrop. Many birds in the park are in full breeding plumage, their numbers increased by the arrival of summer migrant species. The Naukluft Mountains may see more reliable rains, bringing on nutritious vegetation for mountain zebras, springbok and oryx to feed on.
- Variable weather: hot days, possible rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms
- Desert blooms if rain has fallen
- Wildlife dispersed, away from waterholes
- Few tourists, lower rates for accommodation
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namib-Naukluft National Park in February
February is often the wettest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may experience short, spectacular thunderstorms, occasionally generating flash floods in ephemeral rivers. These events can temporarily transform the usually dry landscape, creating stunning photographic opportunities. The park's vegetation is at its greenest, with insects and smaller creatures uniquely adapted to the desert more easily seen. In the Naukluft Mountains, heavier rains can make some hiking trails more challenging but also more rewarding with lush vegetation. Wildlife viewing in open areas like Sossusvlei might be trickier due to the abundance of water and food allowing animals to disperse widely.
- Hot days, chance of rain and thunderstorms
- Desert vegetation lush if rains occurred
- Dramatic skies as backdrop for photographs
- Wildlife still dispersed across the park
- Low tourist numbers, great for solitude
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namib-Naukluft National Park in March
March usually sees the main rains tailing off in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may still experience occasional afternoon thunderstorms, but these decrease in frequency as the month progresses. The landscape is often at its most vivid, with the red dunes contrasting beautifully against green vegetation, and often dry gravel plains now covered in waving grasses. This creates excellent photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Naukluft Mountains may still have some water in streams, making it a good time for hiking. Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals are widely dispersed, but patient observers may be rewarded with sightings of desert-adapted species.
- Weather becoming drier as month progresses
- Desert landscapes starting to dry out
- Animals looking healthy after rainy months
- Wildlife viewing improving in drier areas
- Few tourists, peaceful park experience
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namib-Naukluft National Park in April
April typically brings dry weather to Namib-Naukluft National Park, with a decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures begin to fall, making it more comfortable for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or climbing dunes in Sossusvlei. The park often remains verdant from the recent rains, with animals in fantastic condition. This is an excellent time for photography, with clear air and spectacular landscapes. Stargazers will enjoy increasingly clear night skies as the month progresses. Wildlife viewing may still be challenging in some areas as water and food remain in plentiful supply, allowing animals to roam widely. Birdwatching opportunities along the coast, especially Sandwich Harbour, remain impressive.
- Cooler nights, pleasant daytime temperatures
- Landscapes transitioning to golden hues
- Migratory birds begin to leave the park
- Wildlife easier to spot around water sources
- Easter can bring a surge in visitor numbers
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namib-Naukluft National Park in May
By May, Namib-Naukluft National Park is usually drying out fast. If rains have been good, the land remains green, creating a striking contrast with the red dunes of Sossusvlei. Wildlife starts to congregate around more permanent water sources, improving viewing opportunities. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography, especially in iconic locations like Deadvlei. Typical days are warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies, perfect for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei. Evenings are cool, ideal for stargazing. At the coast, seal pups begin to take to the water and are playful around kayakers. May's good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, and crystal-clear air make it one of the best months to visit the park.
- Dry, warm days and cool nights
- Excellent photography conditions
- Wildlife returning to waterholes
- Ideal for hiking in Naukluft Mountains
- Moderate visitor numbers, good value
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namib-Naukluft National Park in June
Namib-Naukluft National Park is dry in June, with cloudless blue skies. Days are warm and dry, while nights can be cold, especially in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Early morning game drives or hikes require warm clothing. Wildlife viewing in areas like the Naukluft Mountains improves as animals are more active in cooler weather and seek out permanent water sources. The park isn't busy yet, allowing for a more secluded experience. Photographers benefit from superb air clarity and minimal dust of the early dry season. The contrast between the now-dry landscape and the vivid red dunes is striking, especially in early morning or late afternoon light. June is an excellent time for activities like sandboarding or quad biking in the dunes, as well as scenic flights over the park.
- Clear skies, cold nights and mornings
- Perfect conditions for stargazing
- Wildlife viewing productive at waterholes
- Great for dune climbing and desert walks
- Moderate accommodation rates available
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namib-Naukluft National Park in July
July in Namib-Naukluft National Park offers usually warm daytime temperatures and excellent wildlife sightings. The clear skies and dry conditions make for great photographs, especially of iconic locations like Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Nights can be very cold, particularly in the desert areas, so warm clothing is essential for early morning activities. As vegetation continues to dry, animals congregate near water sources, improving wildlife viewing opportunities. The Naukluft Mountains may offer sightings of mountain zebra, gemsbok and other hardy desert species. This is a popular time to visit, so book accommodation and activities in advance. Consider seeing the park's vast landscapes and unique geological features by land and by air.
- Dry days, crisp nights ideal for stargazing
- Peak season for Sossusvlei visits
- Cool temperatures for hiking
- Popular time for hot air balloon rides
- Higher rates, book accommodations early
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Namib-Naukluft National Park in August
August is the height of winter in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Expect cloudless skies and warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Dress in layers for early morning dune climbs or hikes. The landscape appears stark and harsh, emphasising the park's dramatic geology and beautiful colours. Look out for unique desert creatures, such as the toktokkie beetle standing on his head to catch dew droplets in this dry time. This is the most popular time to visit, especially for families, so book early. Activities like hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei are particularly popular now, offering stunning views of the desert landscape in the crisp morning air.
- Dry climate, warm days and cold nights
- Peak season for park visits and activities
- Sossusvlei and Deadvlei highly photogenic
- Sandboarding and quad biking popular
- Advance booking essential for lodges
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namib-Naukluft National Park in September
September in Namib-Naukluft National Park brings blue cloudless skies and the occasional windy day. As the month progresses, days and nights get warmer. The air becomes dustier, creating atmospheric conditions for photography, especially during golden hour at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Desert animals congregate around remaining water and food sources. It's a popular time for visitors, particularly safari enthusiasts. The contrast between the parched landscape and the vivid red dunes is at its most striking. Humpback and Southern Right whales can be spotted off the coast whilst on a marine cruise.
- Warming temperatures, remaining dry
- Excellent month for wildlife viewing
- Naukluft Mountain hikes highly enjoyable
- Whales can be seen along the coast
- High season rates, popular travel time
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namib-Naukluft National Park in October
October is usually the hottest and driest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Temperatures can exceed 40°C/104°F, especially in the Sossusvlei area. The end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly around water sources. The stark beauty of the desert is at its peak, with the red dunes of Sossusvlei standing out dramatically against the cloudless sky. This is an excellent time for photography, with dust haze making for spectacular sunsets. Activities like early morning balloon rides or kayaking on cool waters are popular. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, but visitor numbers can decrease towards the end of the month, allowing for last-minute bookings.
- Hot and dry, true desert conditions
- Prime time for viewing desert-adapted wildlife
- Sossusvlei dunes at their most dramatic
- Scenic flights offer spectacular views
- Peak rates, book well in advance
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namib-Naukluft National Park in November
November in Namib-Naukluft National Park can be unpredictable. Early in the month, conditions are often still hot and dry, similar to October. As the month progresses, there's an increasing chance of afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in the Naukluft Mountains. These storms can create spectacular photographic opportunities, especially when lightning illuminates the desert landscape. Any rain quickly brings new life, with desert-adapted plants springing up rapidly. This is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving. Wildlife may begin to disperse if rains come, making game viewing more challenging but animals look healthy, with shiny coats, due to the increase in food. The changing conditions create a dynamic environment, offering visitors a unique perspective on the desert ecosystem.
- Variable weather as rainy season starts
- Possibility of dramatic desert storms
- Landscapes may start to green
- Wildlife dispersing if early rains fall
- Shoulder season, good value for visitors
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namib-Naukluft National Park in December
December is often a dry gap between the short November rains and the main rains in January in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Occasionally the park experiences dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. These rains transform the landscape, with dormant plants springing to life and dry gravel plains quickly turning green. The contrast between the green vegetation and red dunes creates stunning visuals. Many animals give birth during this time, offering chances to see young wildlife. Birdlife is abundant, with many species in breeding plumage. The holiday season can make the park busier, especially around Sossusvlei, so early bookings are advisable.
- Hot days, possible afternoon showers
- Desert may bloom with early rains
- Migratory birds return to coastal areas
- Christmas brings increase in local tourism
- Mix of green and golden desert vistas
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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