About Olive Exclusive
The Olive Exclusive combines understated luxury with contemporary amenities for a top-class small hotel close to the centre of Windhoek.
If views over a tranquil olive grove from your own private courtyard sound appealing, read on.
For at the Olive Exclusive, just a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Windhoek, that vision is reality. With their subtle colours, natural materials and carefully chosen photographic artwork, four premier suites and three smaller but no less luxurious suites ooze a feeling of relaxation, as if the olive trees themselves have had a calming influence on the designers of this attractive boutique hotel.
As a place to recuperate after a long international flight, or to round off a self-drive trip around Namibia, it would be hard to beat. Ease away the stress of the journey with a hot bath, complete with candles, or slip off your shoes and wander outside, coffee or glass of sherry in hand, and settle down in the shade of a mature tree. In-suite facials and massages take indulgence to the next level, while a pool (or private plunge pool) offers a refreshing lift.
When hunger calls, dine at the hotel’s equally exclusive restaurant, The Olive, which looks out over the twinkling lights of the city. Then wind up the day in the comfort and seclusion of your own personal oasis.
Our view
The Olive Exclusive should appeal to travellers looking for a luxurious, personalised stay in Windhoek. Its attractive setting and stylish design make it an extremely comfortable overnight stop to begin or end a Namibia safari, or for a longer relaxing treat. We particularly liked the striking décor highlighting Namibia's regional attractions, and the on-site restaurant makes eating here a real treat.
Accommodation
7 suites
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
Cultural excursion
Traveller reviews of Olive Exclusive
43 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 14 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 24 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 7 Jul 2024, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 17 Apr 2024, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 16 Sep 2022, 2 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 29 Sep 2022, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 6 Sep 2022, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 15 Sep 2022, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 5 Jun 2022, 1 nights
"Tranquil Setting in Windhoek"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 28 Mar 2022, 1 nights
"Olive Exclusive review"
Overall rating: Good

























Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the trips. See our 64 pictures and 1 videos of Olive Exclusive to get the candid view.
View galleryTrips visiting Olive Exclusive
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


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


Flamingo Fly-in Safari
6 days • 3 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Short on time but big on experience, this luxury fly-in safari takes in Sossusvlei’s famous dunes and Etosha National Park’s captivating wildlife with stays at two excellent luxury lodges.
Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Etosha and 1 other area
US$5,910 - US$6,890 per person


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


Black-faced Impala Guided Safari
13 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique mix of luxury and adventure in our original, and perhaps most varied, destination on a privately guided Namibian overland safari. Perfect for families, friends or couples travelling together.
Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 3 other areas
US$13,680 - US$15,950 per person
Olive Exclusive: Our full report
Overlooking a neighbouring olive grove in the suburb of Klein Windhoek, the officially dubbed Olive Exclusive ...
... All-Suite Hotel is more typically known simply as the Olive Exclusive. Only five minutes' drive from the centre of the Namibian capital the hotel boasts just seven individual, luxurious suites, and an equally intimate and contemporary on-site restaurant, The Olive.
Opened in 2011, the Olive Exclusive is perhaps the most luxurious boutique hotel in Windhoek. Its seven suites comprise three Junior Suites and four Premier Suites. Quality finishes blend with natural materials, incorporating an earthy African flavour, while large glass windows and cool screeded floors complement the light and spacious interiors.
Each suite is unique, the décor inspired by Namibia's distinct regions: Benguela, Namib and Otavi for the Junior Suites; Caprivi, Etosha, Erongo and Kunene for the Premier Suites. Illustrative photographs and natural elements drawn from each area are matched with complementary linen and fittings. Well-placed and easily adjustable lighting adds to the ambience.
Broadly speaking, the suites all offer similar amenities, including air conditioning, a gas fireplace, satellite TV, laptop, free WiFi, telephone, well-stocked minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine, plus complimentary sherry and port. Tucked away are winter and summer bathrobes, slippers, blankets, down and hypo-allergic pillows, a digital safe and a hairdryer.
All the bedrooms have a super-king-size bed or twin queen-size beds, and each en-suite bathroom has a large walk-in shower plus a separate toilet. Double basins are mounted on marble bench-tops with an overhanging mirror. A deep free-standing bath, candles, eco-friendly body products, fluffy towels and underfloor heating complete the set-up.
Where the suites differ is primarily in size and view:
- Premier Suites have front-row position on the hillside overlooking the olive grove and valley beyond. Inside they are larger than the others, with a small lounge and dining area, while outside each has its own deck with a private plunge pool. On our stay in April 2019 the pool was a delightfully refreshing way to cool off – though as it was unheated, we didn’t stay in long.
- Junior Suites, while lacking the lounge and pool, still have a small private courtyard with sun loungers, usually in the shade of a tree.
The Olive is open to the public, so guests wishing to eat in are advised to reserve a table, particularly in the busier months of July–October.
As you might expect from such a luxurious property, wellness treatments – from facials to full-body massages – are also available. These are best booked in advance and take place in the privacy of your own suite.
Other facilities include a communal swimming pool and secure off-street parking.
Geographics
- Location
- Windhoek, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- The Olive Exclusive is usually used as a one-night stop to recover from or prepare for an international flight. For those looking to indulge for a little longer, two nights here would be a great way to do so.
- Directions
- The Olive Exclusive is at 22 Promenaden Street in Klein Windhoek, about five minutes' drive from the city centre, 15 minutes from the domestic Eros Airport, or 45 minutes from Windhoek International Airport.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- The food during our most recent stay in April 2019 was delicious and well presented. The Olive restaurant offers lunch and dinner from an à la carte menu that is updated regularly, with an emphasis on seasonal and signature dishes. Private meals can also be served in your suite.
Breakfast offers a wonderful selection. The innovative “table buffet” – a three-tiered tray of continental treats that is brought to your table – is laden with freshly baked mini-pastries, sliced fresh fruit, muesli and yoghurt, homemade bread, cold meats, cheeses and pickles: a welcome fresh take on the usual Namibian breakfast. Hot dishes are prepared to order, with options ranging from scrambled eggs with avocado and crispy bacon or smoked salmon to the particularly delicious shakshuska that we enjoyed on our last visit. And if none of the pre-set choices appeals you can simply order your own selection of cooked items.
Lunch is generally light and may include a chicken Caesar salad, tomato soup with pesto yoghurt; feta, slow-roasted tomato and cucumber salad; and gourmet sandwiches. We enjoyed our delicious and generously filled chicken club and smoked salmon sandwiches. Slightly more substantial options such as burgers, chicken and mushroom crêpe roulade, and pasta dishes are also on the menu.
For dinner the choice is quite extensive. Starters include soup, smoked snoek (fish) paté, hake bites and game carpaccio. The main courses range from game or beef fillet or lamb shoulder to lemon and garlic prawns, fresh linefish or risotto. Desserts feature the likes of apple crumble, dark chocolate fondant and lemon cream. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Meals can be served to your suite on request.
- Drinks included
- Complimentary tea and coffee, as well as sherry and port, are provided in the suites; all other beverages are available at extra cost from the minibar or the bar in the main area.
We are told that the tap water is safe to drink, but bottled drinking water is also available from each suite’s minibar.
Special interests
- Luxury
- The seven stunning suites at Olive Exclusive are all individually themed and beautifully designed. Impressive photographs of African culture and wildlife embellish the walls whilst light floods through the spacious suites. This place is a rarity in Africa: a truly luxurious boutique hotel!
- See ideas for Luxury in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The Olive Exclusive welcomes children of any age.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions to stay at the Olive Exclusive.
- Special activities & services
- A babysitting service can be arranged, preferably with advance notice, with prices on request. However, please note that childminders are not qualified or formally trained in childcare.
- Equipment
- A cot and highchair can be provided on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- The suites, especially the Premier Suites, are big enough to accommodate a family of three or even four comfortably. However, the design of the hotel, incorporating raised terraces, steep stairways and an unfenced swimming pool, is not geared towards young children. Furthermore, the hotel has a fairly adult feel to it so families with young children may feel a little out of place here.
- Notes
- The property is built on a hillside with many levels, including steep steps with no or minimal handrails, and steep drops. Neither the main pool nor the plunge pools in the Premier Suites are fenced. Children must be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Each suite has a selection of international plug sockets, and a hairdryer is provided.
- Communications
- Each suite has a telephone, complimentary WiFi access and fixed-line internet with in-room laptop. There is cellphone reception here too.
- TV & radio
- There's a satellite television in every suite with a bouquet of movie, news and radio channels.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- The showers, bathtubs and handbasins are all plumbed in, and there are flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- Medical centres and hospitals are located in town. There is a first-aid kit and qualified first aiders on site.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- The Olive Exclusive is fenced, with secure off-street parking and a remote-controlled entrance gate. A security guard is on site 24 hours. The suites are accessed by key card using a monitored software system.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are located in each suite, and there are also fire hoses and extinguishers in communal areas, including the gardens.
Activities
Cultural excursion
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available at extra cost. In April 2019, prices were N$10–35 per item. Items handed in before 9.00am are usually returned that evening, depending on the weather.
- Money
- There is a digital safe in each suite. No currency-exchange facilities are offered.
- Accepted payment on location
- Mastercard and Visa are accepted. Cash payment may be made in Namibian dollars and South African rand.
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.
Olive Exclusive's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Olive Exclusive.
Excursions from Olive Exclusive
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Olive Exclusive. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Windhoek City Tour
three hour Windhoek City Tour
Windhoek city tours offer a mix of history, culture, and local flavour, showcasing Namibia’s colonial landmarks, vibrant markets, and cuisine.
More about Windhoek City TourOther lodges in Windhoek
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Olive Grove
In a quiet Windhoek suburb, Olive Grove is one of our favourite guesthouses: stylish, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and excellent food.

Galton House
A cool stylish sanctuary in a quiet suburb of Windhoek, Galton House boasts a pool and a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Elegant Guesthouse
The Elegant Guesthouse is a friendly, comfortable establishment with a lovely, tranquil garden, and is a good choice for an overnight stay in Windhoek.

River Crossing
Secluded on a private game reserve between Windhoek and the international airport, River Crossing is a tranquil place to start or end a trip.

Villa Violet
Villa Violet is a friendly, owner-run guesthouse in a residential area of Windhoek, just a few minutes' drive from the city centre and numerous restaurants.

Haus Sonneneck
Haus Sonneneck was one of Windhoek's best pensions just a few minutes' drive away from the city centre, however it has now closed.

Weinberg Hotel
In a quiet upmarket suburb of Klein Windhoek, the stylish Weinberg has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and luxury facilities.

GocheGanas
For somewhere to really pamper yourself, Gocheganas Lodge & Spa offers wildlife combined with extensive wellness treatments.

Heinitzburg Hotel
One of the oldest hotels in Windhoek, the Heinitzberg occupies a great hill-top location but can feel like a relic of a bygone era.

Etango Ranch G. Farm
Etango offers simple, clean, comfortable accommodation and it’s the closest accommodation to Windhoek International Airport.

Immanuel Wilderness
Within easy reach of Windhoek, Immanuel Wilderness Lodge is a good overnight option for those who don't wish to stay in the city.

Sun Karros Daan Viljoen
Situated within the Daan Viljoen Nature reserve Sun Karros is a simple lodge with gentle game viewing and bird watching opportunities.

Omaanda
Omaanda offers luxury accommodation and wildlife viewing within easy reach of the international airport and Windhoek City.

Hotel Thule
Windhoek’s Hotel Pension Thule offers stunning views across the city and a reputable in-house restaurant, within easy reach of the international airport.
When to go to Windhoek
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Olive Exclusive in Windhoek
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

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