Windhoek in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Windhoek

23°C (74°F) High Temp

8°C (47°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

20% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with zero rainfall - ideal for outdoor activities and game drives with excellent visibility and dust-free roads
Peak wildlife viewing season as animals congregate around permanent water sources, making Namibia visits exceptionally rewarding
Crystal clear skies with minimal humidity create perfect conditions for stargazing and photography, with temperatures dropping to 8°C (47°F) at night
Comfortable daytime temperatures of 23°C (74°F) make walking tours of the city and hiking in surrounding areas pleasant without excessive heat

Considerations

Tourist high season means accommodation prices increase by 30-40% and popular lodges book out 3-4 months in advance
Large temperature swings from 23°C (74°F) during day to 8°C (47°F) at night require careful packing for layered clothing
Increased competition for game viewing spots in Etosha as this coincides with peak European holiday season

Best Activities in August

Etosha National Park Game Drives

August is the premier month for wildlife viewing as the dry season forces animals to gather at waterholes. Visibility is exceptional with no rain dust, and you'll see large concentrations of elephants, lions, and rare black rhinos. Morning drives start at 6:30am when temperatures are cool at 10°C (50°F), perfect for active wildlife.

Booking Tip: Book self-drive permits or guided tours 6-8 weeks ahead during peak season. Daily park fees are around N$80 (US$4.50) for Namibians, N$150 (US$8.50) for SADC residents. Four-wheel drive vehicles recommended but not essential for main roads. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Khomas Highland Hiking Trails

The dry, cool weather makes August perfect for exploring the mountainous terrain around Windhoek. Trails like the Auas Mountains offer impressive views without the summer heat, and clear skies provide excellent photography conditions. Morning temperatures of 8-15°C (47-59°F) are ideal for strenuous hikes.

Booking Tip: Most trails are accessible independently, but guided hikes cost N$200-400 (US$11-22) per person. Book through local hiking groups or tour operators 7-10 days ahead. Trails typically take 3-6 hours. Check current guided options in the booking section below.

Sossusvlei Desert Photography Tours

August's clear, dry conditions create perfect lighting for capturing the iconic red dunes. The low humidity and stable weather mean consistent sunrise shots at Big Daddy Dune, and cool morning temperatures of 5-10°C (41-50°F) make the early starts comfortable. No rain means reliable road access.

Booking Tip: Multi-day tours typically cost N$3,500-5,500 (US$195-305) per person. Book 4-6 weeks ahead as August is peak photography season. Tours include Namibia, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon. See current tour packages in the booking section below.

Windhoek Cultural Township Tours

The pleasant 23°C (74°F) daytime temperatures make walking tours of Katutura township comfortable. August coincides with local winter festivals and traditional events. Clear weather means outdoor markets and cultural demonstrations run consistently without rain cancellations.

Booking Tip: Half-day township tours cost N$450-650 (US$25-36) per person including traditional lunch. Book through registered community tourism operators 3-5 days ahead. Tours typically last 4-5 hours. Check current community tour options in the booking section below.

Astronomy and Stargazing Experiences

August offers some of the year's best stargazing conditions with zero rainfall, low humidity at 20%, and crystal-clear skies. Cool nighttime temperatures of 8°C (47°F) are comfortable for extended outdoor viewing. The Southern Hemisphere winter sky showcases the Southern Cross and Magellanic Clouds beautifully.

Booking Tip: Stargazing tours cost N$350-550 (US$19-31) per person and include telescope use and expert guides. Book 1-2 weeks ahead as clear August nights are popular. Tours start around 7pm and last 2-3 hours. See current astronomy experiences in the booking section below.

Swakopmund Adventure Activities

The coastal town's stable August weather with minimal wind and no rain creates ideal conditions for sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving. Temperatures remain moderate at 18-22°C (64-72°F) due to ocean influence, and clear skies provide excellent visibility for adventure sports.

Booking Tip: Adventure packages typically cost N$800-1,200 (US$44-67) per activity. Book 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season. Most operators offer combination packages. The 4-hour drive from Windhoek is scenic with guaranteed clear weather. Check current adventure packages in the booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Late August

Windhoek Agricultural Show

Namibia's largest agricultural exhibition showcasing local farming, livestock, and traditional crafts. Features live demonstrations, local food vendors, and cultural performances. Perfect for experiencing authentic Namibian rural culture and cuisine.

Mid to Late August

Winter Festival Cultural Celebrations

Various Herero and Damara communities hold traditional winter ceremonies during August. These include ancestral commemorations and seasonal rituals, offering visitors authentic cultural experiences away from tourist crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system essential - thermal underwear for 8°C (47°F) nights and light cotton for 23°C (74°F) days

Warm jacket or fleece for evening game drives when temperatures drop rapidly after sunset

SPF 50+ sunscreen mandatory - UV index of 8 combined with high altitude at 1,700m (5,577ft) creates intense sun exposure

Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for daytime activities in bright, clear conditions

Comfortable hiking boots for rocky terrain - many trails involve loose gravel and steep sections

Binoculars essential for wildlife viewing - August's clear air provides exceptional long-distance visibility

Camera with extra batteries - cold morning temperatures drain battery life faster

Lip balm and moisturizer for 20% humidity levels that can cause severe dryness

Light gloves for early morning game drives starting at 6:30am in 8°C (47°F) temperatures

Headlamp or flashlight with red filter for stargazing activities and early morning departures

Insider Knowledge

Locals book Etosha accommodation for August as early as March - the three rest camps inside the park (Okaukuejo, Halali, Namutoni) fill completely during school holidays

Fill up fuel tanks before heading to game parks - August's peak season causes occasional fuel shortages at remote stations, and stations close early on Sundays

Many restaurants and tour operators adjust hours during August peak season, opening earlier for game drive departures and staying open later for returning tourists

The local Herero community considers August sacred for ancestral ceremonies - be respectful when photographing and always ask permission before taking pictures of people

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the cold - tourists arrive expecting warm African weather but find morning temperatures at 8°C (47°F) require proper winter clothing

Booking accommodation too late - by June, most lodges and guesthouses are fully booked for August, forcing visitors into expensive last-minute options

Overpacking for rain - tourists bring heavy rain gear for the '10 rainy days' statistic, but August typically sees zero rainfall and bringing rain gear just adds weight