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BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm
BullsPort Lodge and Farm

BullsPort Lodge and Farm


24°8’56.3"S 16°21’48.3"E

About BullsPort Lodge and Farm

Namibia is a land of mirages and at first sight BüllsPort Lodge & Farm could be one.

It shimmers into view in a huge, empty landscape beneath the Namib Naukluft Mountains, a haven for cattle, game, thoroughbred horses and travellers. Managing this remarkable menagerie are farmer Ernst Sauber and his wife Johanna, who have created 14 comfortable and stylish guest rooms in outbuildings to help them through recurring droughts.

There are more luxurious and expensive lodges, but this is a genuine farmstay for visitors wishing to experience rural Namibian life. Ernst has created hiking and biking trails in and around the mountains and takes guests on drives around the farm, while Johanna lives her dream of breeding the finest bloodline horses in the country and schooling them for lessons, day rides and two-day safaris.

Blink and you’d miss a rustic primary school a few miles away for children from farms in the area, but the Saubers support it and visits can be arranged to hear the school choir and chat with staff. Such experiences linger in the memory.

As does dinner with the farmer and his wife by candlelight, beneath a huge umbrella-thorn tree, with kudu and mountain zebra on the menu.

Our view

BullsPort Guest Farm is a great place to stay near the Naukluft Mountains, and appeals to those who love to walk or ride. It's a real Namibian farm, with very welcoming owners, so staying here is quite a personal experience: down-to-earth and friendly. It's a far cry from the regimented atmosphere of some of the purpose-built lodges – and great value compared with many of the lodges nearer Sesriem.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

16 rooms

Children

Fine for all ages

Open

1 Feb - 15 Nov

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Horse-riding

Horse-riding

Private activities

Private activities

Self-guided walking

Self-guided walking

Traveller reviews of BullsPort Lodge and Farm

200 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


90%
200 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
115
Good
72
Average
10
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Brian SfromToronto

Arrived 17 Mar 2025, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"The staff and the owners were warm and welcoming. …" Read Brian S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Dr & Mrs KfromCornwall

Arrived 6 Mar 2025, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"Johanna made us feel very welcome - full Quiver Tree Trail highlight of our trip …" Read Dr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Alan and DifromChippy

Arrived 7 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"A lovely family feel, charming hosts and a good location. …" Read Alan and Di’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs LfromGloucester

Arrived 29 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"We enjoyed this stop very much - could interact and get to know the owner ... …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs RfromSyderstone

Arrived 13 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"excellent, peaceful stop...Johanna, the owner, and her staff are very welcoming …" Read Mr & Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

M&JfromOxfordshire

Arrived 19 Jul 2024, 1 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"We really liked BullsPort - lovely owners - enjoyed the Quiver Tree Trail ... …" Read M&J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr and El JeffefromMT

Arrived 31 May 2024, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"the location is great - owner/host friendly and lovely - fabulous drive in 4x4 …" Read Dr and El Jeffe’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs B fromWiltshire

Arrived 19 May 2024, 1 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"had a lovely welcome (with tea and homemade cake) - Loved the stunning scenery. …" Read Mr & Mrs B ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs YfromSuffolk

Arrived 8 May 2024, 2 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"Bulls Port was excellent - owner was friendly …" Read Mr & Mrs Y’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms RfromN. Yorkshire

Arrived 24 Jan 2024, 1 nights

"BullsPort Lodge and Farm review"

"Beautiful area in the mountains. Excellent home cooking - chat to the owners ... …" Read Ms R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all BullsPort Lodge and Farm reviews

Safaris visiting BullsPort Lodge & Farm

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Caracal Self-drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The quintessential Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the highlights from Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert to Damaraland’s wilderness and a safari in Etosha. A great mix of accommodation and excellent value.

Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 4 other areas

US$3,300 - US$4,140 per person

Read more about the Caracal Self-drive Safari

Map

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$9,010 - US$9,950 per person

Read more about the Chongololo Self-drive Safari

BullsPort Lodge and Farm: Our full report

Within its own section of the majestic Naukluft Mountains, BullsPort Lodge & Farm offers both hiking and horseriding.

Also spelled BüllsPort or BuellsPort, it is one of Namibia's oldest farms, lying some 250km south-west of Windhoek, or 50km south of Solitaire.

The guest farm is owned and run by Johanna and Ernst Sauber, who have always offered a very warm welcome and great hospitality.

Over the years the accommodation in the original BullsPort farmhouse has been augmented by the extension of the original buildings and the addition of some well-designed luxury and family rooms, bringing the total to 16. There's also an entirely separate campsite. The farmhouse accommodation is painted a cheerful orange on the outside and in cool cream and terracotta tones on the inside.

  • Four 'standard' rooms (BullsPort's original rooms) are fairly simple, but all are en suite and have mobile gas heaters and fans. There is a rolling programme of renovation and extension to convert these rooms to 'luxury' rooms.
  • Ten 'luxury' rooms, which we'd always recommend, are larger and come with private verandas, en-suite bathrooms and separate toilets. These rooms have fans and mobile gas heaters for cold nights, and the water is solar heated. There are also tea- and coffee-making facilities in the rooms, and the bathrooms have hairdryers and liquid hand soap, although no other toiletries.
  • Two family units situated next to the pool are the newest addition to the guest farm. Each unit consists of two twin rooms with a shared bathroom, a separate toilet and a private terrace. The second of these units has been designed to be wheelchair accessible.
  • BüllsPort's camping facilities are set about 3km from the main guest farm, and divided into one exclusive camping site for the use of a single group, and a second shared site. Both are tucked away in the Naukluft Mountains, so ideal for nature enthusiasts. Each site comes with two flush toilets, two showers (with water heated by wood-fired donkey-boilers), two sinks and a shaded lapa area, although there's no electricity.
The central facilities at BullsPort Lodge & Farm include a sparkling swimming pool set in palm-dotted gardens. There's also a big shady veranda, which is popular for sundowners, and is where hearty Namibian dinners are served when the weather's good. Indoors, there's a spacious dining room with a large glass sliding door that opens onto the patio and garden, a well-stocked honesty bar and a small library. A WiFi connection is available here, and the farm has a computer station available for guests to use. The atmosphere is homely and we've always found it welcoming. Visitors should be aware that the friendly farm dogs (one Great Dane and four Jack Russells) are free to roam the communal areas during the day but are removed for meals.

Activities focus on hiking and horseriding. Information on all the activities can be found in the reception area, along with maps for the walking trails and a selection of field guides on local flora and fauna.

There are superb hiking opportunities on BullsPort Farm itself and in the surrounding Naukluft Mountains, ranging from short strolls to more challenging day-long hikes; Johanna and Ernst are happy to advise on those that would best suit your ability.

On previous visits we have hiked the Quiver Tree Gorge Trail, which was a real highlight of our stay. This trail has been graded 'moderately difficult' and it was a little challenging in places, with some scree-like patches, but it was nonetheless rewarding, with stunning scenery throughout. You can choose to do this trail one of two ways depending on how energetic you're feeling! If you've got lots of energy you can hike the 12km circular route that winds its way up to the gorge, through it and back down again, taking an average of six hours. If you don't fancy the climb, then BullsPort will drive you to the descent point (at about 1,800m) from where you can walk the 5.5km through the gorge to a pick-up point at the bottom. On our drive up to the start of the trail we spotted several groups of mountain zebra and kudu, and on the trail itself we had a lovely close-up sighting of a klipspringer family, as well as baboons and rock hyrax.

Shorter options include the Kudu Trail which, at just over 3km, is an easy walk over flat terrain – the perfect way to walk off a hearty breakfast or exercise your legs after a long drive. The walks are self-guided but all trails are well marked and easy to follow, and the flora and fauna is rich and beautiful, which makes walking here a real pleasure.

The horseriding here is also excellent. BullsPort is a working farm and one of the few registered studs in Namibia. Riding lessons for beginners are available, and there are several short, guided horseriding trails around the farm, taking between one and three hours. Sometimes zebra and kudu are seen on these rides. For more experienced riders, BullsPort's owner, Johanna, runs guided horseriding trips into the mountains and through neighbouring farms, lasting between one and three days. Horseriding must be pre-booked prior to arrival, and it's possible to borrow hard hats, gloves and chaps.

Other activities at BullsPort include birdwatching, with over 200 bird species here; some specials on our last visit were bokmakierie, augur buzzard, Verreaux's eagle, and rosy-faced lovebirds. Scenic/game-viewing drives, guided tours to Sesriem and Sossusvlei (although it is a quite long way), and guided 4x4 excursions up the Naukluft Plateau are also offered.

It is worth noting that some of the money paid for accommodation at BullsPort goes to a community trust that has been set up to provide members of the local community with guide training programmes, and to help other projects come together.

Geographics

Location
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
Although BullsPort is quite often booked as an overnight stop to break the drive between Windhoek and Sossusvlei, two or even three nights would be ideal for keen hikers and horseriders.
Directions
BullsPort Guest Farm lies about 250km southwest of Windhoek, a drive of about three and a half hours. There is shaded parking for self-drivers.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
Most guests will have dinner and breakfast included in their stay at BuellsPort, and can expect hearty, home-cooked dishes. Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but should be advised well in advance.

Breakfast is normally served at 6.30am (May–Sept) or 7.00am (Oct–Apr), although it's possible to arrange to eat a little later if you prefer. Eggs are cooked to order and there is a selection of cereals (including delicious homemade muesli), yoghurt, cold meats, cheeses and homemade bread.
A packed breakfast can be prepared for anyone who would like to head out early.

We didn't have lunch here on our last visit in May 2024, but a light lunch can be arranged. Lunch packs containing a sandwich, some nuts, a cereal bar, fruit and a carton of juice (perfect for a long drive or to take on one of the walks) are also available. Both of these need to be requested the day before.

Afternoon tea, including a freshly baked cake, is served at 2.00pm (May–Sept) or 3.00pm (Oct–Apr).

Dinner is a three-course set menu served around a family-style table at 7.00pm (May–Sept) and 8.00pm (Oct–Apr). On our last visit we started with squash soup, followed by zebra steak with roast potatos, beetroot, peas and a tomato salad. Our meal was rounded off by malva pudding served with cream.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
There is no room service available at Bullsport Guest Farm.
Drinks included
Drinks are not included. We are told that the water is safe for drinking, but bottled water (extra cost) is available in the bar for those who prefer it.

Special interests

Riding holidays
Bullsport is a great option for horseriding in Namibia. A working farm that also breeds and schools Namibian horses, it offers riding lessons in the lounging circle or the dressage arena, and guided horse trails of up to three days into the Naukluft Mountains.
See ideas for Riding holidays in Namibia
Walking
Bullsport Guest Farm, in the Naukluft Mountains, offers fantastic variety for those interested in walking in Namibia. Eight well-marked trails (the Quiver Tree Gorge Trail is our favourite) lead through the farm and surrounding area, with stunning scenery.
See ideas for Walking in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Well-behaved children are very welcome at BullsPort Guest Farm, but there are no special activities for them.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions.
Special activities & services
Babysitting is available if requested in advance (additional cost), although this would be done by a member of staff and not a trained childminder. There are several board games available.
Equipment
Cots and highchairs can be provided.
Generally recommended for children
Yes
Notes
The pool is unfenced. Children should be supervised by their parents at all times. Children must be happy with dogs as the well-behaved and friendly farm dogs are free to roam the communal areas during the day.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from BullsPort Lodge & Farm

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at BullsPort Lodge and Farm 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.

Zebra

66% success

Oryx

33% success

Wildebeest

8% success

Brown Hyena

7% success

Meerkat

4% success

Spotted Hyena

4% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Giraffe

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There are plug points in all the rooms and adaptors are usually available on request, although we recommend that you bring your own in case there are none available. In the event of a power failure, a generator is run between 7.00am and 10.00pm to provide lights and electricity. A candle and matches are provided in each room.
Communications
WiFi is available to guests free of charge in the lounge and dining room area. There is intermittent cellphone reception on most areas of the farm; we found the signal to be best around the main building.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All the rooms have flushing toilets and showers, which are plumbed in. Only the family units have a bathtub.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
There is a basic first-aid kit on site. The closest hospital is in Rehoboth, about two hours' drive from the farm. BullsPort has links to a medical-rescue company for use in an emergency.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
There is no security guard, but Johanna and Ernst live on site and the rooms can be locked.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers outside the rooms and in the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Horse-riding

    Horse-riding

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Self-guided walking

    Self-guided walking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry can be done for an extra charge of about £4 per load.
Money
Currency exchange is not possible. Some of the rooms have built in lockable storage areas large enough for your bag. For added security, valuables can be handed in to Johanna or Ernst to be stored in their central safe.
Accepted payment on location
BullsPort Guest Farm accepts payments in cash (Namibian dollars or South African rand only), as well as Visa and Mastercard credit cards.

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BullsPort Lodge and Farm's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of BullsPort Lodge & Farm.


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When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit BullsPort Lodge & Farm 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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