Namibia in May

May is the beginning of the dry season in Namibia. As there is little to no rain, watering holes start drying up. During a Namibia safari at this time of the year, the possibility of seeing wildlife is highly likely (especially in Etosha National Park) as animals stick around limited permanent water sources. Thanks to the rain during the previous months, some landscapes still retain some of their greenery in May. This is the start of peak safari season in Namibia, especially for big game viewing and desert safaris.

Weather in May

May typically has dry weather, with temperatures reaching an average 23 °C/73 °F. The environment is usually warm and dry, but early morning and evening game drives can be chilly.

National Parks to Visit in Namibia During May

Etosha National Park

Wildlife viewing is excellent in Etosha National Park during May. Home to four of the Big Five, a safari in Etosha can include sightings of elephants and lions, while leopards and rhinos are rare. Other animals that call the park home include giraffes, zebras, springboks, oryxes, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, and warthogs.

Okonjima Private Nature Reserve

Okonjima Private Nature Reserve – rehabilitated farmland that includes stunning walking trails and the AfriCat Carnivore Care Centre – is best visited in the dry winter months from May to October. This is one of the best places to see not only leopards and hyenas but also the endangered pangolin.

Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon is an exciting place to visit in the dry season. Bush walks and hikes are best during this time due to the clear skies, sunny days, and temperate conditions. Part of the ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, species you could spot here include Hartmann’s mountain zebra, klipspringers, steenboks, kudus, baboons, and common duikers.

Activities to Do in Namibia in May

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