Namibia Safaris
Ideal Moments for a Namibia Safari
The ideal period to explore Namibia for an unforgettable safari experience is during the winter dry season, typically occurring from April to October. During this period, daytime temperatures are pleasantly mild, making it an ideal time to embark on thrilling explorations of Namibia’s stunning desert landscapes and activities. The winter months offer an incredible opportunity to explore parks like Etosha. The arid terrain makes it a thrilling experience to observe wildlife congregating near waterholes. However, it is essential to keep in mind that temperatures can plunge below 0° C during the chilly winter nights. Alongside the fantastic opportunities for observing wildlife and exploring remarkable locations, the crisp mornings and evenings offer breathtaking lighting perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs.
Namibia’s expansive desert landscapes create an exceptional safari destination throughout the year.
The climate and weather patterns of Namibia
Namibia is, overall, a warm land with gentle winters. During the summer, temperatures typically hover around 30 to 35° C, but in the southern regions and far north, it can occasionally soar even higher. Along the coast, the climate is inviting, with temperatures ranging between 15 – 25° C during the summer months and 12 – 20° C in the winter months. During winter, Namibia greets you with brisk nights, where temperatures can dip below freezing, while the days offer a pleasant warmth, ranging from 15 to 25 °C. The winter months are especially enticing for a trip to Namibia. The primary rainy season occurs from January to March. Since rain typically falls as brief, intense bursts, exploring during this time is generally not an issue. The northern part of the country experiences the highest levels of rainfall, especially in the Zambezi Region.
What is the price of a safari in Namibia?
The price of a Namibia safari can fluctuate significantly based on various elements like the length of the adventure, the type of lodging selected, the size of the group, and the particular experiences featured in the schedule. Typically, a mid-range Namibia safari can range from US$ 200 to US$ 500 per person per day. This expense generally includes lodging, dining, organized excursions, entry fees, and travel arrangements within the safari package.
Luxury safaris in Namibia provide exceptional accommodations, unique experiences, and tailored services, with prices ranging from $500 to $1,000 or more per person per day. These exquisite choices frequently offer an elevated sense of comfort, exclusive game drives, fine dining experiences, and a range of extra amenities.
Explore our Namibia Safari Packages and discover the possibilities that await you.
Keep in mind that these price ranges are just estimates and can fluctuate based on the safari operator, the season, and your unique safari needs. Exploring various safari packages and operators is a great way to discover the perfect fit for your budget and preferences. Moreover, it is wise to consider extra expenses like international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, and any optional activities or extensions to your safari.
Ultimately, the expense of a Namibia safari can be customized to fit various budgets and tastes, enabling you to select the type of lodging and activities that match your ideal safari journey.
Namibia: The Journey Begins
Unless embarking on an exhilarating overland safari, the majority of travelers to Namibia touch down by air. One direct flight takes off from Frankfurt in Germany, soaring through the skies to land at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport, nestled 42km east of the vibrant capital. The other option is to connect through Johannesburg or Cape Town, with both routes providing daily flights to Hosea Kutako International in Windhoek and Walvis Bay International Airport.
Exploring the Terrain: Transportation in Namibia
When it comes to exploring Namibia, you have two primary choices, each offering its unique advantages and disadvantages: flying or driving. Flight schedules can shift, so it is wise to connect with your travel consultant for the latest information on this matter.
Travel by Air Namibia boasts a collection of small airports, such as Walvis Bay, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz, Ondangwa, Oranjemund, and Rundu, alongside the international airport located in Walvis Bay. Air Namibia provides domestic flights from Hosea Kutako International Airport and Eros Airport in Windhoek, connecting a variety of exciting destinations across the nation. Charter flights are readily accessible, as numerous luxury lodges boast their own airstrips. Discover more about these options as you begin planning your tour package.
Namibia Safari Vehicles & Road Travel
Owning a vehicle in Namibia allows you to explore at your leisure and venture down the countless winding paths that beckon you. The decision to go with a 2WD or 4WD hinges on your personal tastes and the journey you have in mind. Numerous primary highways are smooth, well-kept tarred roads, and during dry periods, most gravel paths leading to sought-after destinations can be traversed in a 2WD vehicle. Nonetheless, the elevated clearance of a 4×4 ensures a smoother journey on gravel paths, and if you expect to traverse these rugged routes often, be ready for an increased chance of tire punctures. Remember that lodges needing 4WD access typically provide secure parking for 2WD vehicles and offer transfers and game drives in their own 4WD vehicles without any additional charges. In secluded regions and for rugged landscapes, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is a must-have. Operating this type of vehicle demands expertise and proficiency, particularly when navigating through sandy landscapes, crossing riverbeds, and tackling rugged trails. When exploring uncharted territories, it is wise to journey in a group of at least two vehicles and ensure you have all the essential gear on hand.
Namibia’s road network is extensive and typically in great shape, creating an ideal setting for an exhilarating road trip. It certainly has its perils. The expanses traversed in Namibia are immense. Long, open stretches of road can wear you down, making accidents more likely. Navigating sandy terrains demands careful attention, and dirt tracks can pose the risk of punctures. Embrace the thrill of the journey by adhering to road safety guidelines, getting to know the local driving customs, and staying vigilant on the roads, particularly in those less-traveled regions.
Exploring Namibia: Travel Times & Distances
Namibia is vast, and the journeys by car are extensive. One might expect that with such expansive distances, there would be a multitude of flights connecting travel hubs, yet this is far from reality. While you might consider chartering flights or enjoying scenic excursions to take in the stunning expanse of the landscape, Namibia truly shines as a destination for unforgettable road trips. Here are the distances and estimated times for driving, as well as flying when applicable. Consult with one of our seasoned travel experts for the latest flight details.
Johannesburg to Windhoek: 1,624 km / 1,009 miles
Many travelers embark on journeys between Johannesburg and Windhoek. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The journey from Johannesburg to Windhoek spans more than 1,600 km and typically takes around 17 hours. Buses can journey for as long as 24 hours.
Cape Town to Windhoek: a journey of 1,478 km / 918 miles
The journey from Cape Town to Windhoek along the West Coast spans approximately 14.5 hours. Taking to the skies will whisk you away in less than 2.5 hours.
Johannesburg to Walvis Bay: 1,858 km / 1,155 mi
A 2.5-hour flight that departs once daily, or a thrilling 21-hour drive will take you to Walvis Bay from Johannesburg. Walvis Bay is an exciting destination
Windhoek to Etosha: 415 km / 258 mi
The journey to Etosha spans over 400 km and will take around 4 to 5 hours to complete. Daily one-hour flights connect Eros Airport to Ondangwa Airport, located just north of Etosha.
Journey from Windhoek to Swakopmund: 361 km / 224 mi
The journey westward from Windhoek to Swakopmund along the coast takes just under four hours.
Windhoek and Walvis Bay to Namib-Naukluft National Park
The journey from Windhoek to Namib-Naukluft National Park spans 285 km / 177 mi and will take just under 4 hours, promising an exciting drive filled with stunning landscapes along the way. From Walvis Bay, the journey to Namib-Nauklift National Park spans 73 km / 45 mi and will take just under an hour to drive.
Journey from Windhoek to Luderitz: 684 km / 425 mi
The journey from Windhoek to Luderitz takes about 7.5 hours on the road.
Journey from Windhoek to Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: 828 km / 514 mi
The journey from Windhoek to Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park spans nearly 9 hours.
What to Pack for an Exciting Safari in Namibia
Namibia is a land of contrasts. When preparing for your Namibian safari, it is essential to consider the elements and pack in a manner that enables you to adjust to the unpredictable aspects of the wild. Here’s a concise guide on what to wear while exploring the wild landscapes of Namibia.
The sun in Namibia can be quite fierce, so don’t forget to bring along a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and ears. Donning sunglasses is a smart move to shield your eyes from the intense desert glare, and having a high-SPF sunscreen at the ready is always beneficial. Lightweight, breathable clothing featuring long sleeves and collars provides an added shield against the relentless sun. A lightweight scarf or shawl can be a great companion, offering extra sun protection for your neck and shoulders as you explore the outdoors. A fleece-lined windbreaker is perfect for those cool nights, providing warmth while shielding you from the brisk winds. When exploring the desert or coastal dunes, a scarf or bandanna is essential for protecting your face and neck from the swirling sand.
For your journey through Namibia, having reliable and comfortable walking shoes is crucial for exploring the wild landscapes. Trainers or sneakers should work well unless you are gearing up for an epic 5-day hike in the Fish River Canyon. In that case, you likely have an outstanding pair of hiking boots prepared for the journey! Footwear that covers your toes will safeguard your feet, and a sole designed to prevent slipping will ensure you maintain a solid grip on diverse landscapes. I always enjoy traveling with a pair of Crocs or sandals for unwinding in the evenings at the lodge or camp.
To fully embrace your Namibia safari experience, it is essential to dress in layers, protect yourself from the sun and wind, and select the right footwear. By doing so, you can guarantee a thrilling and delightful experience. Having versatile clothing options at hand will empower you to embrace the unpredictable weather and dive into the thrilling experiences offered by Namibia’s wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
