Rainfall is only expected in the summer from November to March - starting lightly and then getting heavier towards February. Most of the rain comes in short but heavy thundershowers, and the usually dry landscape becomes saturated very quickly. Paradoxically, water is the main erosive element in this landscape with roads turning into rivers after a couple of hours of rain.

Despite the rain in parts, temperatures soar across the country in the summer. December has averages over 30°C and in some places, temperatures of over 40º C are not uncommon. Average summer daily temperatures range from 20 to 34º C. The winter months are much cooler; the days are still quite warm, however, clear starry skies lead to very cold nights.

Low-lying areas in the eastern part of the country are generally much hotter than the higher Central Plateau and, apart for the northeast, receive little rain. Over the Central Plateau which is higher, temperatures are understandably lower and sub-zero temperatures and frost are common in the winter month. Along the coast, the north flowing cold Benguela current cools the coastal regions, causing fog, inhibiting rainfall and giving rise to much cooler temperatures. (warm clothing is required in the winter).

Namibia is a vast country, which means that each region has its own particular micro-climate, but in a nutshell, there is plenty of sun, the days are almost always warm, but the nights are chilly in winter. It is generally dry apart from a brief and intense wet season in the northern parts of the country.

Reading:
To find out more about Namibia or to bag some books, dvd's or music for your trip, please take a look at the Mud Hut's Reading List!