Weather in Namibia in November

November in Namibia marks the transition from the cooler spring season to the warmer beginning of summer. At this time, mornings in Namibia are comfortably warm and afternoons can be quite hot. The weather in Namibia in November is characterized by an increase in heat and the start of the rainy season, which brings short, invigorating afternoon showers. At the beginning of the month, the skies remain clearer and brighter, creating perfect conditions for lovers of photography, wildlife watching and exploring Namibia's unique landscapes.

What is the weather like in Namibia in November?

In November, Namibia transitions from a cooler spring to a warmer early summer. This month is characterized by warmer mornings and hotter afternoons, signaling the start of summer in the country.

Although this period marks the beginning of the rainy season, the weather in Namibia in November remains mostly sunny and dry, with occasional short showers late in the day. These rains are usually brief and unlikely to disrupt travel plans much, but they make a refreshing change to the landscape and can cool down hot afternoons, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Average rainfall in November is relatively low compared to the later months of the rainy season, keeping most tourist facilities and transportation options operational. Roads generally remain in good condition, making it easy to travel between different parts of the country.

November falls during the shoulder season of tourism in Namibia, following the peak season from July to October. During this time, the crowds of tourists diminish and accommodation and tour prices drop, making traveling more relaxed and perhaps more affordable.

Overall, November can be a great time to visit Namibia due to the pleasant weather with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, encouraging a variety of outdoor activities.

Ready to explore Namibia? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Namibia travel experts.

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Nachtigal Strasse, Luderitz, Namibia @ Shutterstock

Temperatures in Namibia in November

In November, Namibia average high temperature ranges from 28°C to 34°C (82°F to 93°F) and the average low temperature ranges from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). These temperatures indicate the start of the summer season across the country.

Temperatures tend to be warmer in northern regions, with daytime highs easily reaching the upper end of the range, especially in drier areas. Nights can be relatively cool, providing a welcome respite from the heat of the day.

In central areas, including the capital Windhoek, temperatures are a little milder but still warm, with maximum temperatures usually hovering around 30°C (mid-80°F). Nighttime temperatures are cooler, making evenings and early mornings pleasant.

In southern regions, especially in the Namib Desert, daytime temperatures are similar to central regions, but nights can be cooler due to the desert climate. The difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures can be quite significant.

Generally, the weather in Namibia in November is characterized by warm to hot temperatures, indicating a clear shift towards summer. Although days can be hot throughout the country, evenings and early mornings remain cool, providing comfortable conditions for sleep and early activities.

Learn more and compare the weather in different months with our guide to the best time to visit Namibia.

Namib desert, Sossusvlei, Namibia © JaySi/Shutterstock

Namib desert, Sossusvlei, Namibia © JaySi/Shutterstock

Is November a good time to visit Namibia?

Yes, November is a good time to visit Namibia. It is in this month that the country transitions from the cool, dry season to the warmer weather of early summer. Daytime temperatures become increasingly warm, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as wildlife watching and hiking.

It's also during this time that the landscape begins to change from dry to more lush and colorful thanks to brief, sporadic rains. These rains generally do not interfere with travel and serve to highlight the beauty of nature and wildlife activity without the inconvenience of heavy precipitation.

In addition, November falls during the "shoulder" season, meaning there are fewer tourists and accommodation prices are lower than during peak periods. This makes it a great time if you are looking for tranquility and bargains.

Overall, with mild weather, fewer tourists, and the start of the green season, November offers a balanced and enjoyable experience for exploring Namibia.

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What about crowds and costs?

November is the shoulder season in Namibia, situated between the high tourist season from July to October and the start of the holiday period in December

During this time, popular attractions are less crowded, providing a quieter and more secluded travel experience. Since it is not peak season, accommodation and tour prices are usually lower, making it a better value compared to the busier months.

The advantages of traveling in November are that you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country with fewer tourists and benefit from lower costs. 

In addition, ahead of the high December season, when tourist traffic increases significantly due to summer vacations, November provides a unique opportunity to explore Namibia's landscapes in relative solitude before the holiday rush, while taking advantage of the warm weather and the start of the green season.

Still thinking about where to vacation in November? Read the Rough Guide about the best places to travel in November and choose the right one for you.

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Namib Rand, Namibia @ Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Namibia in November

There are no major festivals in Namibia in November. This quieter period in the country's events calendar allows you to explore the country without the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the natural and urban landscapes that Namibia has to offer.

During this time, one can take advantage of the serene atmosphere and visit iconic parks such as Etosha National Park, where they can enjoy wildlife watching in one of the most accessible safari destinations in Africa. 

Namib-Naukluft National Park, home to the famous Sossusvlei Dunes, is another must-visit destination. From here you can enjoy spectacular sunrise and sunset views of the world's highest sand dunes.

The city of Windhoek, the country's capital, has a tranquil yet interesting atmosphere with a mix of African and German colonial influences. Swakopmund, located on the coast, offers a cooler climate and a unique combination of desert, sea and adventure activities.

The lack of major festivals means there are more accommodations and often lower prices, making November a great time if you're looking to experience Namibia's cities and natural wonders in a more intimate, personalized setting.

Ready for your dream trip to Namibia in November?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to enjoy the trip of your dreams without the hassle of planning. All our itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be tailored to your specific needs.

  • Wilderness Safaris by Flight (8 days): Take advantage of convenient flights to explore Namibia's remote deserts, luxury lodges, safari camps, and iconic sights - from the vast dunes of Sossusvlei to the rugged landscapes of Damaraland and the remote beauty of Kaokoveld.
  • Epic Gondwana Adventure: Deserts, Ocean, and Wilderness (14 days): Experience the best of what Namibia has to offer with a journey across the country, from the Kalahari to the Namib, from the coast to Damaraland, culminating in an unforgettable stay in the wildlife mecca that is Etosha National Park.
  • Ultimate Self Drive in Namibia (10 days): Explore Namibia on this epic 10-day self-guided journey. Highlights include the Namib, an ancient desert with high dunes, dramatic mountains, and waterfront colonial architecture. You'll also visit the Himba people, discover Etosha National Park, and much more.

Want to give your kids an unforgettable safari experience in Namibia? Read everything you need to know about travelling to Namibia with kids.

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Namibia Desert @ Shutterstock

Visit Namibia in other months

Exploring Namibia is not limited to just one season: each month offers unique experiences and breathtaking sights to suit every type of traveler. From witnessing majestic natural phenomena to experiencing vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, here's what each month has to offer:

  • December: celebrate festive season amid rising temperatures and the start of the rainy season, offering lush scenery and vibrant festivities.
  • January: take in the lush scenery and colorful wildlife as the rainy season continues, offering cooler weather and spectacular scenery.
  • February: enjoy the end of the rainy season when there are fewer tourists, making it ideal for bird watching and photography.
  • March: witness the transition from wet to dry season: mild temperatures and less rain are ideal for outdoor activities.
  • April: pleasant weather and clear skies are the perfect time for camping and outdoor activities as the landscape begins to dry out.
  • May: Namibia's landscapes take on golden hues, temperatures become cooler and you can spot wildlife.
  • June: the peak tourist season begins, offering clear, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for safaris and exploring the desert.
  • July: enjoy some of the best wildlife viewing conditions amidst winter's cooler weather and limited water sources that attract animals.
  • August: wildlife activity and good weather make this one of the best times for game-watching and adventure sports.
  • September: watch the desert bloom and wildlife gather at waterholes as temperatures begin to rise.
  • October: hot, dry weather, ideal for visiting the Skeleton Coast and watching wildlife concentrate around scarce water sources.
Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 22.05.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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