Good Time to Visit

Weather

The cold Benguela current keeps the coast cool, damp and rain-free for most of the year, although coastal fog is common. Inland, the meagre rain falls from November to April (summer), with January and February being the hottest months. During this time, daytime temperatures in the interior can exceed 40ºC (104ºF); however, nights are usually cool. Winter (June to September) is warm and pleasant, although again, nights can be cold. (See Climate in Namibia for more information).

Visitors are advised to bring light cottons, with light woollens or slightly heavier cottons for evening.

Festivals

Not all festivals are open to foreigners, but those that are include Independence Day on 21 March, with celebrations taking place in every town and village, featuring singing, dancing, and speeches, and Maherero Day on 26 August. The Herero people gather in their thousands for a memorial service to their chiefs. This spectacular and fun event takes place in Okahandja, and tours can be arranged from Windhoek. Swakopmund shows its German influences when it hosts the Octoberfest beer festival.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Namibia: