August sees rising daytime temperatures while still being dry-great for long drives and photographic safaris. Nights are milder than in mid-winter, especially in desert areas. Tour operators are in full swing and accommodation in popular camps can book up.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 10 to 28°C (50 to 82°F)Crowds HighPrices High
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Namibia in August.
Where to Go in Namibia in August
Skeleton Coast & Namib Desert
coastline to Sossusvlei
August is one of the sunniest months for both the coast and the high dunes: fog usually clears earlier and Sossusvlei sees long golden afternoons perfect for dune-hopping and hot-air ballooning. Expect strong afternoon winds along the shoreline, which is great for kite- and wind-surfers at Walvis Bay but means sandblasting on exposed viewpoints-pack a buff and goggles. Lodge bookings fill as international visitors arrive for dry-season clarity.
Central Highlands & Khomas Plateau
Windhoek, Waterberg, Brandberg
August warms gradually, with days becoming pleasantly warm and nights still brisk; dust increases as fields dry out and the Kalahari influence begins to push in from the east. This month is popular with climbers targeting Brandberg and Spitzkoppe’s granite faces; bring sun protection and expect busy weekends. Accommodation near the plateau and national parks books up early with European winter visitors.
Etosha & Northern Safari Areas
Etosha, Kunene, Omusati
August warms noticeably; afternoons are hot and animals still concentrate at shrinking water sources, boosting predator-prey encounters and predictable sightings. Dust levels can increase on gravel roads and visibility through spotting scopes is often good in crisp air. For photographers, the warming light is flattering and lodges near permanent waterholes are in high demand-reserve well in advance.
Zambezi (former Caprivi) & Kavango Riverlands
Katima Mulilo, Rundu, Divundu
August warms noticeably though mornings retain a fresh crispness; boat safaris are excellent with good visibility and wildlife concentrated along permanent channels. Expect increasing dust on some access roads and stronger daytime heat by late month, but evenings cool quickly. This is a highly recommended month for combining river and land safaris, though lodges can be busy.
Kalahari & Southern Namibia
Fish River Canyon, Keetmanshoop, Karas
August sees warming days and still-cool nights; early spring flowers may appear if winter rains were sufficient, adding color to succulent fields. Sand and dust can pick up as the landscape dries, so protect cameras and machinery; hiking is comfortable but start early to avoid midday sun. The southern region is quiet and offers good-value accommodation compared with more famous northern parks.
Events & Festivals in August
There are no major festivals or events in Namibia during August to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Namibia?
See how August compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
