Windhoek in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Windhoek

30°C (87°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

41 mm (1.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak rainy season creates lush green landscapes and cooler evening temperatures - perfect for photography and outdoor dining after 6pm when temps drop to 22°C (72°F)
Tourist numbers are 40% lower than peak season (June-August), meaning shorter queues at Independence Avenue shops and better service at restaurants
Local summer holiday season brings busy street markets and extended shopping hours until 10pm at Kampala along Post Street Mall
December rain patterns are predictable - short afternoon bursts (2-4pm) followed by clear evenings, making trip planning easier than erratic shoulder seasons

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days can disrupt outdoor activities between 2-4pm - indoor backup plans essential for museum visits or shopping centers
High humidity (70%) makes midday walking uncomfortable - early morning and evening activities strongly recommended
Some gravel roads to outlying attractions become muddy and require 4WD vehicles, increasing transport costs by 30-50%

Best Activities in December

Namibia Desert Safari Day Trips

December's cooler mornings (17°C/62°F at sunrise) create perfect conditions for Namibia and Namibia excursions. Clear post-rain air offers exceptional visibility for photographing the world's highest sand dunes. Wildlife is more active in cooler December weather compared to scorching dry season.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead as local operators get busy with holiday visitors. Full-day trips typically cost N$1,800-2,500 per person. Choose operators with air-conditioned vehicles and guaranteed departure policies for weather delays. See current desert tour options in the booking section below.

Windhoek City Cultural Walking Tours

December's predictable weather pattern makes morning walking tours (8-10am) ideal before afternoon heat peaks. Local holiday festivities add energy to Independence Avenue and Katutura township visits. Post-rain streets are dust-free, perfect for exploring German colonial architecture and busy street art.

Booking Tip: Morning tours (8-10am) avoid afternoon heat and rain. Typically N$450-650 for 3-hour cultural walks. Book through certified local guides who know current December events and holiday market schedules. Check booking options below for available dates.

Etosha National Park Wildlife Viewing

December brings new vegetation and active wildlife after first rains. Animals gather at waterholes during cooler morning hours (6-9am) and late afternoon (4-6pm). Young animals born during rainy season create exceptional photography opportunities. Cooler temperatures mean comfortable game drives.

Booking Tip: Multi-day packages typically N$3,200-4,800 per person including accommodation. Book minimum 3 weeks ahead for December dates. Choose lodges with covered viewing areas for afternoon rain showers. Current Etosha tours available in booking section below.

Local Craft Beer and Food Market Tours

December holiday season brings extended hours to Windhoek's craft brewery scene and weekend food markets. Pleasant evening temperatures (22°C/72°F) make outdoor beer gardens and street food sampling comfortable. Local festive specialties like kapana (grilled meat) and traditional brews are readily available.

Booking Tip: Evening tours (5-8pm) offer best weather and market atmosphere. Food and beer tours typically N$550-850 per person. Book local food guides who know December seasonal specialties and holiday market schedules. See current culinary tour options below.

Daan Viljoen Game Reserve Hiking

December rains transform this reserve 24 km (15 miles) west of Windhoek into green hiking great destination. Cool morning temperatures (17-20°C/62-68°F) and washed mountain air create ideal conditions for the Sweet Thorn Trail and Rooibos Trail. Wildlife viewing excellent as animals are active in cooler weather.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking entry N$50-80 per person, guided nature walks N$200-350. Morning slots (6-9am) essential to avoid afternoon heat and storms. Reserve accommodation books fast in December - confirm 4+ weeks ahead. Check current availability in booking section.

Traditional Herero and Damara Village Experiences

December cultural celebrations in surrounding villages offer real feels with traditional December harvest festivals. Cooler weather makes day trips to Katutura and outlying communities comfortable. Local holiday preparations provide insight into Namibian Christmas traditions blending African and European customs.

Booking Tip: Cultural village tours typically N$650-950 per person for full day including transport and meals. Book through community-based tourism operators who coordinate with local festivals. December dates fill quickly due to holiday celebrations - book 3+ weeks ahead.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December

Windhoek Summer Festival

Annual celebration featuring local music, traditional dance performances, and Kampala throughout the city center. German colonial Christmas markets blend with African holiday traditions creating unique cultural fusion atmosphere.

Early to Late December

Christmas Market at Post Street Mall

Extended holiday market with local artisans, traditional foods, and live music performances. Features both European Christmas traditions and local Namibian holiday customs including traditional kapana grills and craft beer tastings.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket - December storms are brief (30-45 minutes) but intense, and you'll want protection during afternoon downpours

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even during cloudy December days due to high altitude at 1,650 m (5,413 ft)

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity and 30°C (87°F) afternoon temperatures

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - December rain makes pavements and hiking trails slippery, especially around Independence Avenue

Light layers for temperature swings - mornings start at 17°C (62°F) but reach 30°C (87°F) by afternoon, requiring adaptable clothing

Insect repellent containing DEET - December rains create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, particularly active during evening hours

Compact umbrella or rain poncho - more practical than heavy rain gear for brief afternoon showers while exploring the city

Camera rain protection - plastic bags or waterproof camera covers essential for desert and wildlife photography during unpredictable weather

Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks - high humidity and heat require extra hydration, especially during morning outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Locals shop and dine between 5-8pm when temperatures drop and afternoon rains clear - this is when restaurants offer best service and Kampala have full selection

December is mango season in Windhoek - street vendors along Independence Avenue sell fresh local mangoes for N$5-10, far superior to imported fruit available other months

Many businesses close December 16-January 8 for summer holidays - book restaurant reservations and confirm attraction hours before arriving, especially after December 20th

Windhoek's altitude at 1,650 m (5,413 ft) means December temperatures feel more moderate than coastal cities - perfect for visitors from hot climates seeking relief

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 2-4pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - schedule sightseeing for morning (8-11am) or evening (5-8pm) instead

Underestimating how quickly weather changes from sunny to stormy - always carry light rain protection even when morning skies are perfectly clear

Booking accommodation too late - December is local holiday season and quality hotels fill up by early November, leaving only expensive or poor-quality options