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Namibia is a breathtakingly beautiful country known for its diverse culture, unique landscapes, and impressive wildlife. A Namibia trip promises many adventures, from the enormous dunes of the Namib Desert to unparalleled wildlife sightings in Etosha National Park. Compared to travelling in Botswana or East Africa, Namibia trips are more affordable than you might think. However, the costs for flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities can add up quickly.
Learn more about how you can reduce the costs of your Namibia trip while still experiencing an unforgettable adventure in this fascinating country in Southern Africa. If you are a budget-conscious traveller, you can find out more about the cheapest time to visit Namibia and other tips on how to save money on your Namibia trip.
The cheapest time to visit Namibia is the low-season
If your travel budget is limited, but you still don’t want to miss out on a Namibia adventure, you can save some money by travelling during the low season from November to March. In the off-season, prices for flights and accommodation are often cheaper, making it the best time to visit Namibia for budget-conscious travellers. It is important to know that the low season coincides with the rainy season. Even though it is officially called the rainy season, that does not mean that the sky will be grey on grey. Rain showers in Namibia are often heavy, but short and limited to the afternoon. Nevertheless, it is good to plan accordingly and pack weatherproof shoes and a rain jacket, for example. If you want to save some money on your Namibia trip, the cheapest time to visit Namibia is during the low season.
What is the weather like during Namibia’s low season?
The seasons in the southern hemisphere are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere; the low season from November to March coincides with Namibia’s summer. Especially in December and January it can get very hot with up to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). From February, temperatures are somewhat more moderate. After the rains, Namibia’s landscapes are also beautifully green. However, the climate in the country varies depending on the region. In the inland or in the Kalahari and Namib Desert, it can get very hot during the day, and you should only expect minimal rainfall here. In the Zambezi region (Caprivi Strip) in the northeast of Namibia, there is tropical climate. This area gets the most rain and is lush and green, especially in the rainy season. The closer you get to the Atlantic coast – Swakopmund or Luderitz for example –, the less rain you can expect, but it can get foggy on the coast.
Our favourite tours in Namibia’s low season:
The Best of Namibia
Places Windhoek, Kalahari, Fish River Canyon, Luderitz, Tiras Mountains, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Ugab Valley, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Plateau
from getting current exchange rate… per person sharing
Namibia Highlights in Style
Places Windhoek, Okonjima, Onguma Reserves, Twyfelfontein, Erongo Mountains, Swakopmund, Namib Desert
from getting current exchange rate… per person sharing
What to expect on a Namibia trip during the low season
During the rainy season, wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park can be challenging. At this time, there is plenty of water throughout the park, meaning animals don’t need to come to waterholes to drink and are scattered across the park. Additionally, vegetation is denser making it more difficult to spot wildlife. However, Namibia’s summer is the best time for bird watching, as migratory birds arrive in the country during the rainy season. Another advantage of travelling in the rainy season: There are even fewer travellers in Namibia than usual. This means that even popular campsites have better availability. However, you should note that some lodges and camps in Namibia close during the low season. Therefore, it is always advisable to book your Namibia trip with an experienced tour operator.
How do you get the cheapest price for flights and accommodation in Namibia?
The further in advance you book your flights and accommodations, the better deals you can get. We, therefore, recommend booking at least a few months in advance. The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the better prices you will find. It is typically cheaper to fly during the week than on weekends. If you want to save money on your Namibia trip, you should definitely avoid the long summer holidays. Entrance fees to national parks remain the same year-round, but accommodations have lower prices in the low season: A double tent at the popular Mushara Bush Camp just outside Etosha National Park costs NAD 4,400 (approx. 225 Euro) in the high season, and NAD 4,000 (approx. 200 Euro) in the low season.
More tips for a cheaper Namibia trip
Besides the cheapest time to visit Namibia, you should consider travelling as part of a group. A self-drive tour may seem cheaper at first glance. For example, a 13-day guided group tour costs from NAD 56,000 (approx. 3,500 Euro), while a 13-day self-drive tour is available from NAD 21,500 (approx. 1,300 Euro). However, you should keep in mind that on a self-drive tour, you will have to pay additional costs for things like your rental car, petrol, activities, and national park entrance fees. On a scheduled group tour with a fixed itinerary, you share the costs for transportation and your guide with other travellers. In addition, national park entrance fees and activities are often included in the price of guided tours. Therefore, the additional costs that you face are more manageable. Another way to experience the cheapest Namibia trip is on a camping adventure. There are campsites all over the country, often in breathtakingly beautiful locations. Here you can experience Namibia’s nature up close.
We can help you planning your trip and finding the best and cheapest time to visit Namibia. Just get in touch!
Author: Johanna Höß
