Namibia in July

This is the time for big game viewing in Namibia’s national parks and game reserves. After the dry season has kicked in during May, the landscape in places like Etosha National Park, Okonjima Nature Reserve, and Ongava Private Game Reserve dries out, creating environments ideal for game drives and walking safaris. The lack of rain causes the animals of the parks and reserves to stay around the few remaining watering holes, so game drives can be more productive compared to the wet summer months.

Weather in July

July is one of Namibia’s coldest months, with the average maximum temperature being around 21°C to 25°C/70°F to 77°F and the minimum around 7°C/45°F. Nights and early mornings can be particularly cold, so make sure to pack warm clothes if you’re going on a Namibia safari in July. Thanks to the lack of rain, skies are clear, making for excellent stargazing when the sun goes down. Vegetation also thins out, making wildlife easier to spot.

National Parks and Reserves to Visit in Namibia During July

Okonjima Nature Reserve

The Okonjima Nature Reserve is renowned for its leopards and offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. In addition to leopards, the reserve is home to cheetahs, lions, hyenas, black rhinos, and various species of antelope. Game drives here are eventful, especially during the dry winter months. The rare and elusive pangolin can also be spotted here; perhaps you’ll get lucky with a sighting during a walking safari in the reserve!

Etosha National Park

The diverse ecosystems of Etosha National Park are best explored during a Namibia safari in the dry season. This is because the lack of rainfall causes the wildlife of the park to congregate around the remaining waterholes, making finding them a lot easier. During game drives, four of the Big Five can be seen (with buffaloes being absent).

Ongava Private Game Reserve

Neighbouring Etosha National Park, Ongava Private Game Reserve shares a similar climate. As such, the best time for a Namibia wildlife safari in Ongava is during winter. Wildlife viewing is also similar to Etosha. Thanks to conservation efforts, this game reserve is a fantastic place to see rhinos. While exploring (including during night game drives), you could come across lions, elephants, and leopards as well as black-faced impalas and Damara dik-diks, specialities of the reserve.

Activities to Do in Namibia in July

• Culture safaris
• Game drives
• Walking safaris
• Hot air balloon safaris
• Desert safaris
• Stargazing