September marks the start of the short spring season in Namibia. Traveling to the country now is lovely because the weather is warm and dry, with low humidity. Meanwhile, wildlife viewing is still decent before the rains of summer arrive. It's a popular time to visit, but if you want to experience the Etosha National Park or the red dunes of Sossusvlei at their best and most comfortable, don't hesitate.

Weather

Namibia's short spring spans the month of September. It's a transitional season between the cool, dry winter and the hot, wet summer. As such, it's an ideal time to travel to the southwestern African country. It's a dry month with sunny, clear skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures that most travelers will find comfortable. Temperatures increase as the month progresses.

Higher-altitude places, such as the capital Windhoek, get a bit cooler than lower-lying areas, like the national parks. Year-round, the coast is cooler than many inland areas. There's quite a lot of regional variation throughout Namibia, but you can expect temperatures between 68°F and 86°F (20°C and 30°C) this month.

Crowds & Costs

September is the peak season for travel to Namibia, and many experts consider it the best month to visit due to the good weather. The country is a popular safari destination, and national park areas will be humming. However, early in the month is likely to be busier than later, as many European travelers return to school and work as the month progresses. 

The winter and short spring are the best times for game viewing, with vegetation sparser and animals gathering around the remaining waterholes. You'll want to book accommodation well in advance, even though Namibia isn't as busy as some other east African safari destinations. Yet, the only places most likely to feel crowded are Etosha National Park, Swakopmund, and Sossusvlei. Aim to visit later in September if you have the flexibility and want to avoid the crowds.

Where to Go

Popular tourist attractions of Namibia are beautiful and engaging. The Sossusvlei area is no exception with its red and orange dunes and white salt pans in the southern Namib Desert in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The landscape here is stunning, eerie, and iconic (Bollywood fans will undoubtedly recognize it from Aamir Khan's "Ghajini"). Southwest of Sossusvlei is Deadvlei; it's a good idea to visit both places because the centuries-old remains of trees are a memorable sight. As well as general sightseeing safaris, visitors can take a short, easy hike along the Deadvlei Hiking Trail.

Travelers interested in traditional culture should head north to the Caprivi Strip. In the village of Chinchimani, near the town of Katima Mulilo, right on the border with Zambia, the Mafwe people host the annual Lusata Festival in late September. Mafwe people travel from across the region and outside Namibia to sing, dance, and feast with their people. Travelers are welcome to attend.

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What to Do

September is still a great time to visit Namibia's game reserves and national parks for wildlife viewing. The Etosha National Park in northern Namibia is one of the most popular game areas in the country and possibly the best place in Africa to see black rhinos. You can also see flamingoes, elephants, giraffes, leopards, and ostriches. For a more exclusive wildlife-viewing experience with fewer other visitors, check out the nearby Ongava Private Game Reserve. The number of visitors is restricted and retains a more intimate atmosphere where you can find a similar range of wildlife.

Road tripping is a good way of experiencing Namibia, and September is an ideal month because the roads will be accessible and dry. Road trip itineraries can suit almost anyone, whether you have five days or five weeks. A great seven-day itinerary would be to start in Windhoek, then drive and take a quick safari in the Intu Afrika Kalahari Game Reserve. Continue down to the desert landscapes of Sossusvlei, the dramatic Sesriem Canyon, and then up to coastal Swakopmund, a popular town with German heritage and adventure sports opportunities.

Events in September

Harvest Festivals, nationwide. Many communities celebrate the harvest at the end of September.

Lusata Festival, Chinchimani Village. Mafwe people from Namibia, Zambia, travel to the king's village in the Caprivi Strip to celebrate their culture in the last week of September.

Traveling to Namibia in September? Check out these great itineraries

Namibia Desert Road Trip - 7 Days. See the highlights of Namibia on a weeklong road trip: take a sunset safari drive on the Intu Afrika Kalahari Game Reserve, see the famous Red Dunes of Sossusvlei, go on a sunrise hike through Sesriem Canyon, see German-colonial architecture in the oceanside town of Swakopmund, and more.

Namibia Self-Drive Adventure - 16 Days. Spend at least two weeks exploring Namibia on an epic 16-day road trip. It kicks off in the capital, Windhoek, and makes its way to Gamsberg, the Atlantic coast, the Namib Desert, the NamibRand Nature Reserve, Naukluft Park, and the Kalahari Desert.

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