This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge


24°46’46.9"S 15°53’19.1"E

About Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

The luxury Sossusvlei Desert Lodge (formerly known as Sossusvlei Mountain Lodge) is located in the NamibRand ...

... Nature Reserve, about half-an-hour's drive from Sesriem. Guests benefit from unspoilt views across the desert from large modern suites, and can participate in a range of activities.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is a well-designed lodge offering perhaps the ultimate in desert luxury. Along with a lovely setting, beautiful views and a range of activities, it maintains high levels of service and comfort, and is well worth a stay if your budget can stretch to it.

Our view

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is a well-designed lodge offering perhaps the ultimate in desert luxury. Along with a lovely setting, beautiful views and a range of activities, it maintains high levels of service and comfort, and is well worth a stay if your budget can stretch to it.

Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Accommodation

10 chalets

Children

Best for 14+.

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Quad-biking

Quad-biking

Traveller reviews of Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

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


99%
40 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
38
Good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
S & JfromDenver

Arrived 9 Apr 2025, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"Spectacular location and very large rooms - own large private terrace and pool. …" Read S & J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr BfromCanada

Arrived 15 Feb 2024, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"The Lodge is fabulous, located in a valley with a view down to the dunes. …" Read Dr B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr and Mrs Wfromlondon

Arrived 30 Jun 2023, 2 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"pure luxury... some lovely personal touches …" Read Mr and Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr PfromNew Jersey

Arrived 1 Oct 2021, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"Outstanding place in every possible way …" Read Mr P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs SfromHampshire

Arrived 11 Sep 2018, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"A fabulous lodge, wonderful staff, amazing views and delicious food. …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr D & Prof HfromUK

Arrived 30 Aug 2018, 5 nights

"Wow - five stars in every respect!"

"absolutely outstanding in every way... We didn't want to leave. …" Read Dr D & Prof H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

SamanthafromLondon

Arrived 17 Aug 2018, 3 nights

"Spectacular setting!"

"Setting is amazing, guide was fantastic..Food lovely, staff very accommodating.. …" Read Samantha’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms H & Mr FfromChicago

Arrived 2 Jul 2018, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"I had a huge smile on my face hours after arriving here. …" Read Ms H & Mr F’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr SfromSanur, Bali

Arrived 20 May 2018, 3 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"Fantastic place..The service here was phenomenal...The food was great.. …" Read Mr S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms MfromOttawa

Arrived 25 Sep 2017, 2 nights

"Sossusvlei Desert Lodge review"

"This is a beautiful lodge located in a beautiful location. …" Read Ms M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Sossusvlei Desert Lodge reviews

Safaris visiting Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

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


Map

Goshawk Fly-in Safari

12 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Discover Namibia’s remarkable landscapes, fascinating wildlife and unique cultures on this luxury adventure flying between a selection of the very best camps and lodges in the country.

Visiting NamibRand, Damaraland and 3 other areas

US$13,430 - US$20,120 per person

Read more about the Goshawk Fly-in Safari

Map

Rock Agama Self-drive Safari

9 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Big on experience and light on time, this self-drive trip packs in Namibia’s highlights while staying in a selection of luxury camps and lodges for an unforgettable 10 days.

Visiting Okonjima, NamibRand and 4 other areas

US$9,810 - US$14,600 per person

Read more about the Rock Agama Self-drive Safari

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Our full report

The luxury Sossusvlei Desert Lodge (formerly known as Sossusvlei Mountain Lodge) is located in the NamibRand ...

... Nature Reserve, about half-an-hour's drive from Sesriem. Guests benefit from unspoilt views across the desert from large modern suites, and can participate in a range of activities.

On our visits to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge we have been greeted on arrival by cheery and welcoming staff with cold towels and a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade. Just what we needed after a hot and dusty journey. We have found the service here to be excellent, with friendly staff who seem always willing to help.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge has ten spacious chalets, each constructed from stone and glass, and decorated in a modern style with soft neutral tones. Each room can be either twin or double, and one can be converted into a triple room. Above each bed is a skylight, which makes the rooms feel light and bright during the day, and at night allows you to stargaze in comfort.

Inside, the split-level rooms have many comforts, including a glass-panelled bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, air conditioning and well-stocked minibars. Complimentary dried apricots and mixed nuts are also on offer, as is fresh lemon to add to your drinks.

Large photos of the local area adorn the walls, lamps made of driftwood and shells sit on the tables, and ornaments comprising bones, quartz and stylishly shaped wood blend the rugged outdoor landscape with the supreme comfort of the suite.

All the rooms have their own comfortable lounge areas, complete with a central fireplace and sliding glass doors that open on to a couple of terraces, and thence to the desert. One of the terraces is set with sun loungers, the other with a table and chairs – a good spot to peruse your personalised welcome pack or to enjoy the complimentary bottle of sparkling wine that is presented on arrival.

Paints, charcoal sticks, coloured pastels, paper and various paint brushes allow you to transform the surrounding vistas into a personal piece of art.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge's main area incorporates a bar and lounge with impressive views over the desert. Meals are served in the adjacent dining area, while the air-conditioned wine cellar doubles as a location for private dinners, perfect for anniversaries or honeymooners.

Up a short flight of stairs from the bar and restaurant is a second spacious lounge whose terrace, being higher up, affords more distant views than from downstairs. There's also satellite TV up here, as well as a small selection of books.

In front of the dining area, and slightly lower than the rest of the camp is a circular swimming pool, fed by water from a spring. The pool has fabulous views of the plains and distant mountains, as well as a waterhole where, on our last visit, in October 2016, we spotted oryx, zebra and springbok.

There's a real interest in astronomy at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, which has its own observatory, with a computer-controlled telescope that guests may use. There is even a resident astronomer who can explain the constellations and talk to you about the night sky. The NamibRand is designated as an international dark sky reserve, meaning that there is little or no light pollution and the stars can be seen clearly. To comply with the rules of the reserve, pathways are lit at night with red light (although guests are also given torches).

Activities at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge include excursions to Sossusvlei, guided nature walks, scenic nature drives, an exhilarating quadbiking trip around some local dunes (over 16s only), and a very rewarding if slightly tiring walk to a Bushman cave with rock paintings. (NB: It's essential that you read the Quadbike warning in the 'Health & Safety' section below for our comments on insurance issues regarding this activity.)

On our most recent visit, we thoroughly enjoyed the Sossusvlei excursion, though as the drive to the iconic dunes takes around 1½–2 hours, it involves quite a long time in the vehicle. After an informative trip around Deadvlei and Sossusvlei we settled under the shade of an acacia tree, in the parking area, and our guide prepared a cooked breakfast accompanied by tea, coffee, cereal, yoghurt and muffins.

It is also possible to hike up some of the nearby mountains with a ranger, while guests who would like to go for unguided walks on their own are given a radio. For those looking for something less energetic, the lodge can book massages for you in your own chalet, although these are at extra cost.

Geographics

Location
NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2–3 nights
Directions
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is located on the NamibRand Nature Reserve, and can be accessed along the C27, approx 30 minutes south of Sesriem. Please note that the road surface here can be quite poor, although on our last visit in October 2016 it was fine. Sossusvlei Desert Lodge has its own airstrip and can also be reached by flying in to the nearby Geluk airstrip.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
On our last stay in October 2016, the food quality and variety was excellent. There is a vegetarian option at all meals.

Breakfast and lunch are served from an à la carte menu at 6.30 –9.30am and 12.30–2.00pm respectively. We had our breakfast cooked at the dunes on our most recent stay, so we did not sample breakfast at the lodge, but for lunch there was a choice of beef kebab, venison steaks, pork schnitzel, stir-fry chicken or falafel with various dips, followed by ice cream or sorbet.

The food provided during our sundowner was also excellent and worth comment where after our quadbiking trip, we were served eland kebabs cooked freshly in front of us, home-made chips and vegetable samosas.

Dinner, served between 6.30pm and 9.30pm,,is a set menu with a choice of two main courses, generally one meat and one fish/vegetarian. Our menu was read to us by the chef and consisted of curried butternut squash soup to start. For main there was a choice of beef with red-wine sauce or kingklip fish with a lemon sauce, both with polenta and mixed vegetables. The meal was beautifully rounded off with a sticky toffee pudding and home-made ice cream.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service can be provided on request. Private dinners in the wine cellar can be arranged, perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
Drinks included
Included except champagne and premium-brand spirits.

Special interests

Honeymoons
The red dunes of the NamibRand and Sossusvlei are very romantic. For a memorable honeymoon to Namibia, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is a perfect choice; enjoy a romantic sleep out under the stars or massages your room for an extra treat.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Namibia
Wellbeing
Nestled in the stunning surroundings of the NamibRand Reserve, the opulent Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is the perfect place to spoil yourself. A gym, pool and treatment room make this one of Namibia’s ultimate desert retreats.
See ideas for Wellbeing in Namibia
Luxury
A personalised welcome pack and a complementary bottle of sparkling wine await you on arrival at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge – a perfect introduction to a luxury safari holiday. Small things such as a painting kit in your room show the lodge’s remarkable attention to detail.
See ideas for Luxury in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children are welcome at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge.
Property’s age restrictions
There is no age restriction but children under 6 may not participate in all activities.
Special activities & services
There is a painting set in each chalet that children can use.
Generally recommended for children
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge has a luxurious and adult feel, and we believe that young children would feel out of place here. This, coupled with a lack of entertainment for children, means that we suggest that it would only be suitable for children aged 14+.
Notes
The pool is unfenced, there are some steep stone steps and some large drops around the lodge, so children should be supervised at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Sossusvlei 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.

Oryx

100% success

Zebra

86% success

Wildebeest

40% success

Giraffe

20% success

Spotted Hyena

20% success

Brown Hyena

17% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Meerkat

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There are power sockets in all chalets, but you will need to bring your own adaptor.
Communications
There is no cellphone coverage here but there is WiFi in the main areas. In an emergency there are lodge phones that guests can use.
TV & radio
The lodge has a satellite TV in the upstairs lounge.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
The showers are plumbed, the toilets are flush and there is plenty of hot water.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
The closest doctor is in Mariental, but in an emergency, patients would be flown to Windhoek.



Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
The lodge is in a very remote location, and each chalet is lockable.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in each room, as well as smoke detectors.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Quad-biking

    Quad-biking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included.
Money
There is a small electronic safe in every chalet for valuables. No currency exchange is available.
Accepted payment on location
Card payment may be made via Visa and Mastercard. Alternatively, cash is accepted in Namibian dollars, South African rand, US dollars and euros.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sossusvlei Desert Lodge.


Excursions from Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Ballooning in the Namib Desert

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
95% (84 reviews)
Scenic flights in Namibia

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 flights
94% (7 reviews)

Other lodges in NamibRand Nature Reserve

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Wolwedans Desert Lodge

Wolwedans Desert Lodge

Wolwedans Desert Lodge is a beautiful camp in a stunning setting on the NamibRand Reserve. Stay here for a luxurious escape into the wilderness.


95% (81 reviews)
Wolwedans Dune Camp

Wolwedans Dune Camp

Small and intimate with excellent service and great guiding, Wolwedans Dune Camp is a luxurious escape in a beautiful location.


98% (68 reviews)
Tok Tokkie Trails

Tok Tokkie Trails

Escape the car and explore the spectacular Namib Desert on foot with an expert guide from Tok Tokkie Trails.


99% (42 reviews)
Kwessi Dunes

Kwessi Dunes

Kwessi Dune Lodge is a new property in the NamibRand Nature reserve promising to offer a luxurious stay in the wonderfully remote NamibRand Reserve.


100% (9 reviews)
Wolwedans Boulders Camp

Wolwedans Boulders

Hidden away in a remote corner of the NamibRand enjoy good food and attentive service at the exclusive Wolwedans Boulders Camp.


97% (7 reviews)
Wolwedans Plains Camp

Wolwedans Plains Camp

With just three bedrooms, private chef and private guide, Wolwedans Plains Camp offers for peace and seclusion in a stunning setting.


100% (2 reviews)

When to go to NamibRand Nature Reserve

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in NamibRand Nature Reserve


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namibia in January

January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.

Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
  • Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namibia in February

February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.

Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namibia in March

March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.

Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
  • Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namibia in April

Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.

With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.

  • Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
  • Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
  • Migrant birds have started to leave
  • Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namibia in May

By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.

Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.

May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
  • Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
  • Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
  • Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namibia in June

Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.

Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.

Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.

  • Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
  • Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
  • “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
  • Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
  • Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namibia in July

Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.

As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).

  • Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
  • Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
  • The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Namibia in August

August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.

It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.

Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.

  • Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
  • Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
  • Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namibia in September

September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.

In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.

  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
  • Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
  • Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
  • High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namibia in October

Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.

In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.

  • Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
  • Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
  • The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
  • It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
  • Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namibia in November

November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.

Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.

  • A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
  • With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
  • Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
  • Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
  • Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namibia in December

December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!

Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.

Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.

  • Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
  • Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
  • A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
  • Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
  • Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa