18 Day Kruger, Namibia Safari & Victoria Falls

Best Time To Visit – Namibia (Month By Month): The best time to visit Namibia is during the Dry season (May to October). However, it can be visited year-round as the climate is generally dry and pleasant. Wildlife viewing in all parks, but especially in Etosha National Park, is best in the drier months. In the Wet season (November to April), animals move away from the waterholes and scatter around the parks. Between December and March, some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localized afternoon thunderstorms.

May to October – Dry Season – Winter

Wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making animals easier to spot – this is the best time to visit Etosha National Park. It’s sunny with no clouds and there is virtually no rain

Even though most tourists visit during the Dry season, the parks still don’t feel crowded (except for Etosha and parts of Namib-Naukluft National Park). It gets cold at night and in the mornings; pack warm clothes for morning game drives from June to August

November to April – Wet Season – Summer

The scenery is greener and there are newborn animals. Rates are lower because it’s low season

Migratory birds are present and birding is at its best – Rains are mostly short showers in the afternoon and rarely have a negative impact on your trip – It gets very hot from October or November to March – It’s more difficult to spot animals, especially in Etosha

Best Time To Go by Major Park: If seeing wildlife is your main objective, the best time to visit most parks, especially Etosha, is in the Dry season (May to October). Namibia is a scenic country and can be visited throughout the year. The colors will be most vibrant during and after the Wet season (November to April). From October or November to March it can be unpleasantly hot.

What Can I Expect From A Safari With Paradise Adventure Vacations? Our safaris in Namibia offer an opportunity to explore the country’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. We specialize in private and group safaris, which means you have a 4×4 Luxurious Land cruiser or jeep all to yourselves. You have the flexibility to decide when the safari starts and ends, and our experienced guides can help you make that decision on the day of your adventure. Whether you want to witness the animals at their most active during sunrise and sunset when temperatures are pleasant, or if you fancy ending the day by the pool, it’s entirely up to you. Botswana’s diverse wildlife is active at various times of the day, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot the animals in action.

How Can I Personalize My Trip With Your Services? At Paradise Adventure Vacations, we’re all about co-creating your perfect journey. When you plan your Namibia adventure with us, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on a personalized experience. We start by understanding your wishes and preferences, and we won’t stop until every aspect of your journey aligns perfectly with your vision. Our team works closely with you to ensure that your entire trip is tailor-made to your satisfaction. And for added convenience, we offer a selection of our most popular Namibia trips and safaris as a starting point for your consideration.

Can I See The Big Five In Namibia? Yes, you can definitely see the “Big Five” in Namibia, although it’s important to note that the term “Big Five” originally referred to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot in Africa: the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. Today, the term is more commonly used in the context of wildlife viewing and photography rather than hunting.

Namibia is known for its diverse and unique wildlife, and while it may not have as dense populations of these animals as some other African countries, you still have a good chance of seeing them in various national parks and game reserves.

Here’s where you can potentially spot each of the Big Five in Namibia:

Lion: You can find lions in several places in Namibia, such as Etosha National Park, which is one of the best-known wildlife areas in the country.

Elephant: Elephants can be seen in places like Etosha National Park, as well as in the Caprivi Strip region in the northeastern part of Namibia.

Buffalo: Buffaloes are also present in the Zambezi Region.

Leopard: Leopards are more elusive and harder to spot, but they can be found in areas with dense vegetation, such as riverine forests in parks like Etosha and Waterberg Plateau Park.

Rhinoceros: Both black and white rhinos can be found in Namibia. You might have the best chance of seeing them in Etosha National Park, but they are also present in other protected areas.

Keep in mind that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, as these animals inhabit vast areas and their behavior can be influenced by factors like weather and time of day. It’s a good idea to go on guided safaris with experienced trackers who know the animals’ habits and where they are likely to be found.

Apart from the Big Five, Namibia offers a rich variety of other wildlife and stunning landscapes, so even if you don’t manage to see all of the Big Five, you’ll still have an incredible wildlife experience.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs: Do I need a visa to visit Namibia?

Citizens of most Western countries — including the UK, EU member states, USA, Canada, Australia, and South Africa — receive a free 90-day tourist visa on arrival. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date and have at least three blank pages. Always confirm the latest requirements with your nearest Namibian embassy before travelling.

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

Entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Namibian embassy or high commission to verify that the information below is current. A passport is required for all foreign visitors and has to be valid for at least six months. All foreign visitors will need to carry a return or onward ticket.

From 1 April 2025, citizens from most countries must apply in advance and online for a visa on arrival (VOA). Once approved, tourist or holiday visas are valid for entry for three months from the date of issue and for stays of up to 30 days.

The application costs US$90, and you’ll require any or all of: a valid passport with six months’ validity and three blank pages; a completed visa application form; an invitation letter; proof of sufficient funds; proof of accommodation; travel bookings or plans; and proof of medical/travel insurance.

Children (under 18 years of age) must have a certified copy of their full, unabridged birth certificate as well as a valid passport to enter Namibia. If a child is traveling with only one parent, or no parents, the child must have an affidavit from the missing parent(s), that gives their consent for the child to travel.

For more information, please check the website of your local Namibian embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:

Please use the links below for Governments’ travel advice on Namibia.

Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au

Canada: travel.gc.ca

EU member states: consular-protection.ec.europa.eu

Ireland: www.ireland.ie

New Zealand: www.safetravel.govt.nz

United Kingdom: www.gov.uk

United States: travel.state.gov

 

What currency can I use in Namibia? The national currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar which is linked to and equals in value to the South African Rand which is also a legal tender in Namibia. The Namibian dollar has denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 dollar notes, 5 and 1 dollar coins and 50, 10 and 5 cent coins.

Although the import of foreign currency into Namibia is unlimited, all foreign currency must be declared at the point of entry. Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Namibia. Therefore, it’s best to travel with multiple payment options just in case. ATM’s are widely available throughout the country for cash withdrawals. In addition, there are four main commercial banks in Namibia (Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank and Bank Windhoek). These banks have foreign currency exchange facilities.

 Do I Need Any Vaccinations and Malaria Tablets for Namibia Safaris?

The information on this page is just a general guide and should not be used to replace a consultation with your travel doctor. The government organizations and travel clinics listed below are trusted resources for complete and up-to-date information about travelers’ health in Namibia.

Vaccinations are recommended. See the websites below for more detailed immunization advice.

Malaria Risk

Malaria is medium risk in northern Namibia, especially in Etosha National Park and the Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip). In the rest of the country, it is low to no risk. The highest risk of transmission is in the rainy season from November to April. See the websites below for more detailed advice.

Australia: www.travelclinic.com.au

Canada: travel.gc.ca

Ireland: www.tmb.ie

United Kingdom: www.nhsinform.scot

 

How long in advance should I book a Namibia Safaris?

Namibia’s tourism scene is growing. Folk from around the world come for wildlife in Etosha, the dunes at Sossusvlei, and open-road self-drive trips. But many of the best camps, lodges, and even vehicle hires have limited capacity. Booking early often means you get the dates, rooms and experiences you want — especially in the peak season from May to October. 

Industry guides and tour operators suggest planning 3 – 12 months ahead for peak month travel. That gives you a full range of accommodation choices and helps you secure the 4×4 or self-drive vehicle you prefer.

If you’re traveling in the shoulder months or off-peak times, you can sometimes book 4–6 months ahead and still find good options.

Waiting too long — less than 3 months before departure — might still work, but you’ll lose choice on the best places to stay, and prices can go up. That’s what many hosts and safari guides warn about.

For flights and international travel requirements, locking in your dates early helps you find better prices and connections rather than waiting until the last minute.

So here’s the human takeaway: start your Namibia booking at least 3 – 12 months before peak season if you want flexibility and choice. If you’re more flexible on timing or destinations, you can book closer to your trip, but be ready to adjust your plans.

General Booking Timeframes: For peak months (May–October), many travel guides advise booking 9–12 months ahead to secure preferred lodges and experiences.

Some sources say even 12–18 months ahead can help if you want specific rooms, campsites near Etosha, or desert lodges that have small guest capacity.

Shoulder season travel (April–May, November) often works with 4–6 months of booking lead time, with good options still available.

Booking less than 3 months before your trip means fewer choices, higher prices, and some popular spots may already be full.

Why Early Booking Helps: Namibia has many small lodges and camps with limited rooms. Early booking gives more choices for location and room type — especially places with views or special features.

Early reservations often lock in better rates for flights, car hire, and accommodation. Prices can rise as availability falls.

Popular activities like guided wildlife tours, cultural experiences, or balloon rides can fill up along with your lodging, so advance booking holds your spot.

Flights and Car Hire: Booking international flights earlier helps you get better connections and fare options. You don’t want to wait until a few weeks before and find only expensive or long-layover flights.

Safari vehicles, especially 4×4 rentals with camping gear, are in high demand in peak months; booking early ensures you get the type you want.

Camping and Self-Drive Specific: For self-drive trips, travellers often book accommodation and campsites well ahead because rural and national park camps fill fast on weekends or popular travel dates.

Some campsites at Etosha and in desert areas allow booking almost a year ahead through online systems. It’s wise to use those early booking windows to avoid disappointment.

Peak Season Demand: Many visitors plan trips around the dry season (May–October) for wildlife and road access, so lodges and vehicles are booked earlier than in the off-season. Peak months like July and August see strong demand from European travelers, meaning spaces get reserved quickly.

Financial and Planning Benefits: Booking ahead lets you spread out costs — save for flights one month, secure accommodation next month, and lock vehicle hire later. It feels less overwhelming than paying all at once. You have time to adjust your itinerary, add activities you find later, or coordinate with family travel plans.

So if your heart is set on specific experiences, booking early is not just practical, it lets you travel with calm confidence rather than last-minute scramble.

 

What should I bring on a Namibia Safaris?

Packing is an important part of any holiday – and none more so than a trip to Namibia. There’s open-air game drives, bush walks, and mountain hikes to think about, as well as swimming pools and soaring desert temperatures. And, of course, it’s all got to fit into a tiny bag of luggage. So, here’s our list of hints and tips for what to pack for Namibia, plus a few bits and pieces we would’ve loved to have known for our first trip to Namibia.

As a general guide, comfortable, and casual clothing that you can wash and wear is recommended while on safari. Muted colors are best for game viewing. Game drives are generally conducted in the early morning and the late afternoon, which can be cold, especially in winter. The temperature often warms up during the day, so it is best to dress in layers.

The most practical items to pack for your Namibia safari are:

Clothes in khaki, green, beige, and neutral colors

Long-sleeved shirts that offer protection from the sun and mosquitoes

T-shirts – Shorts or a light skirt

Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days

Jackets and sweaters for early morning and late afternoon game drives

A lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain

Swim and beachwear

Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, moisturizer and lip salve

Binoculars and camera equipment

The luggage allowance on small flights is usually limited to a maximum of 20 kg, which includes hand luggage, so please bear this in mind when packing. Most lodges and camps provide a same-day laundry service for your clothes.

How To Get There? There are few direct flights to Namibia, and most travelers have a stopover in O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, South Africa. Some of the main airlines flying to Johannesburg have add-on connections. This often includes an overnight stay in Johannesburg.

Namibia’s main airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), 40km/25mi east of Windhoek, the capital. Onward travel is either by small aircraft or car (which could be a 4WD vehicle). Because of the excellent roads and safety in Namibia, many people choose the self-drive option. In most other cases, your local tour operator will arrange pickup from the airport and all further transportation as part of the tour.

 Flights & Airlines to Namibia

Please check Skyscanner to see which airlines can take you to Namibia and what tickets would cost.

www.skyscanner.com

Domestic Airlines & Flights in Namibia

Fly Namibia (Offers domestic flights from Windhoek to Ondangwa, Rundu and Katima Mulilo; its Safari Route Schedule connects Windhoek to Swakopmund, Sossusvlei, Twyfelfontein and Etosha National Park) Charter flights are usually booked through Paradise Adventure Vacations.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing Namibia Safari Experience with Paradise Adventure Vacations

Our Namibia safari with Paradise Adventure Vacations exceeded every expectation. Robert and Mussa were exceptional safari guides who shared incredible knowledge about wildlife, landscapes, and local culture. We enjoyed unforgettable game drives, breathtaking desert scenery, and excellent hospitality throughout the journey. Their professionalism, friendliness, and attention to detail made every moment special. We highly recommend Paradise Adventure Vacations to anyone planning a memorable Namibia safari adventure.

 

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Unforgettable Adventure Across Namibia

Paradise Adventure Vacations organized a fantastic safari that allowed us to experience the best of Namibia.  Mussa were outstanding guides, ensuring every safari drive was exciting, informative, and safe. We saw incredible wildlife, stunning dunes, and beautiful landscapes while learning so much about the country’s natural heritage. Everything was perfectly arranged, making this one of the best travel experiences we have ever enjoyed.

 

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Professional Guides and Incredible Wildlife

Our Namibia safari with Paradise Adventure Vacations was truly unforgettable from beginning to end.  Mussa made every safari drive enjoyable with their expert wildlife tracking skills and fascinating stories about Namibia’s ecosystems. We spotted elephants, giraffes, lions, and many other animals in their natural habitat. The accommodations, transportation, and customer service were excellent. We would happily travel with Paradise Adventure Vacations again.

 

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Safari Service in Namibia

We cannot thank Paradise Adventure Vacations enough for organizing such an incredible Namibia safari. Mussa were knowledgeable, patient, and passionate throughout every safari drive. Their dedication ensured we had outstanding wildlife sightings and plenty of opportunities for photography. Every detail of our trip was carefully planned, allowing us to relax and fully enjoy this remarkable African adventure. Highly recommended!

 

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five-Star Namibia Safari Experience

From our arrival until departure, Paradise Adventure Vacations provided exceptional service. Mussa were fantastic safari guides whose enthusiasm and expertise made every game drive memorable. We explored Namibia’s spectacular national parks, admired breathtaking scenery, and encountered amazing wildlife. Their warm hospitality and professional organization made us feel welcome throughout the journey. We confidently give Paradise Adventure Vacations five stars and recommend them to every safari traveler.