Very broadly, Namibia lies on a warm, sub-tropical latitude and has a very pleasant climate, averaging around 300 days of sunshine per year. Its climate is typical for a semi-desert region, with hot days and cool nights. The Benguela Current keeps the coast cool and free of rain for most of the year, whereas inland areas experience greater extremes of temperature.

Although Namibia does have a summer rainy season, you are very unlikely to get rained on; most rainfall occurs in the northern reaches of the country, typically starting in the Caprivi Strip during mid-October, then creeping into the central interior from November. January to March are the peak summer months when most rainfall occurs and this usually peters out during April. However, days are normally very warm, with afternoon cloud build up and possible, though usually short-lived, showers.

Although you can visit Namibia at any time of year, the best time to go is in the period between April and October. This is the period when temperatures, particularly in the south, do not climb too high, skies are usually cloudless and wildlife viewing is at its best. The cooler winter months are also much better for undertaking any moderately strenuous activity. Southern areas such as the Naukluft Mountains, the NamibRand or Fish River Canyon (which only opens for hiking between May and September) simply become too hot during the summer months.

During the wintertime, days are warm and pleasant, but night-time temperatures can drop down to freezing in inland areas between June and August. Temperatures on the coast do not dip as low as inland areas. Early morning fogs often occur over the coastal plains and can be experienced at any time of year, though more usually during summer.

Rainfall and temperature data for Windhoek and Swakopmund, shown below, is a good general indication of weather patterns in the inland and coastal parts of Namibia.