Windhoek in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Windhoek

27°C (80°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

79 mm (3.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak wildlife viewing season - animals gather at permanent water sources as temporary pools dry up, making game drives 40% more successful than wet season
Perfect hiking weather with cool mornings (15°C/59°F) warming to comfortable 27°C (80°F) by midday before afternoon storms clear the air
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 25-35% compared to June-August peak season while weather remains excellent
Clear mountain views after afternoon rains - the Khomas Highland and Auas Mountains are most visible in March with dramatically clear post-storm skies

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly between 2-5pm on 10+ days, requiring flexible outdoor schedules and indoor backup plans
High UV exposure (index 8) at 1,650m (5,413 ft) altitude makes sun protection critical - locals avoid midday outdoor activities
Tourism infrastructure transitions between seasons - some lodges close briefly for maintenance and road conditions vary after storms

Best Activities in March

Daan Viljoen Game Reserve Morning Drives

March is optimal for wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. Morning drives (6-9am) offer cool temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F) and active wildlife before afternoon storms. Kudu, oryx, and mountain zebra sightings peak during this transitional period between wet and dry seasons.

Booking Tip: Reserve morning slots 5-7 days ahead through park offices or lodges. Self-drive permits cost typically N$40-60 per vehicle, guided tours N$350-450 per person. Book before 2pm daily to avoid afternoon storm closures.

Khomas Highland Hiking Trails

March offers ideal hiking conditions with cool morning starts and dramatic afternoon storm-clearing. The Luxury Hill and Lovers Hill trails provide 360-degree city views after rain clears the air. Altitude of 1,800-2,000m (5,906-6,562 ft) means temperature drops significantly, perfect for March's variable weather.

Booking Tip: Start hikes by 7am to complete before afternoon storms. Guided hikes typically N$250-400 per person. Independent hiking requires proper navigation as trails can be unclear - download offline maps and inform accommodation of plans.

Katutura Township Cultural Tours

March timing coincides with post-harvest celebrations and Independence Day preparations (March 21st). Township tours showcase real Windhoek life with shebeens, traditional food preparation, and local crafts. Morning tours (8-11am) avoid afternoon weather and align with market activity.

Booking Tip: Book through established community tourism operators typically N$300-500 per person for 3-4 hour tours. March offers unique cultural calendar access - confirm Independence Day activities during booking. Always book with local guide recommended by accommodation.

Windhoek Craft Brewery and Distillery Experiences

March's afternoon storms make indoor cultural activities perfect. Windhoek's German colonial heritage created strong brewing traditions. Brewery tours showcase local Tafel and Windhoek Lager production, while urban distilleries offer amarula and local spirit tastings during the 2-5pm storm window.

Booking Tip: Book afternoon slots (2-5pm) as weather backup plans. Brewery tours typically N$150-250 per person including tastings. Many offer storm-watching areas with city views. Reserve weekend slots 1 week ahead - weekday availability usually good.

Independence Avenue Shopping and Cafe Culture

March's variable weather makes Windhoek's covered shopping areas and German-style cafes ideal for flexible itineraries. Post-Independence Market (morning) and afternoon storm-watching from Joe's Beerhouse area create authentic local experiences. March features end-of-harvest fresh produce at Windhoek Country Club Resort area.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for street exploration. Budget N$200-400 daily for meals and local crafts. Many cafes offer covered terraces perfect for March storm-watching. Independence Avenue provides covered walkways for weather protection.

Avis Dam and Recreation Resort Activities

March water levels are optimal from recent rains, making the dam 15 km (9.3 miles) south of city perfect for sailing, fishing, and bird watching. Post-storm clear skies offer excellent photography conditions of Khomas Highland reflections. Water sports operate best in calm morning conditions before afternoon weather builds.

Booking Tip: Book water activities for morning slots (8am-12pm) before afternoon storms. Boat rentals typically N$300-500 per day, guided fishing N$400-600 per person. Weekend bookings require 1-week advance reservation. Confirm weather policies for afternoon storm cancellations.

March Events & Festivals

March 21st annually

Namibian Independence Day Celebrations

March 21st marks Namibia's Independence Day with city-wide celebrations, traditional dancing, and cultural performances at Banjul and throughout central Windhoek. The entire city participates with street festivities, traditional food, and music that continues into the evening.

Late March preparation events

Windhoek Agricultural Show preparation activities

Late March sees preparation activities for the annual agricultural show including livestock judging practice sessions and craft exhibitions. Local farmers and artisans display products, offering visitors authentic insight into Namibian rural culture and agricultural traditions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index 8 at 1,650m (5,413 ft) altitude creates intense exposure even on cloudy days

Lightweight waterproof jacket - afternoon storms arrive suddenly and temperatures drop 8-10°C (14-18°F) during rain

Layered clothing system - mornings start at 15°C (59°F), reach 27°C (80°F) by midday, then cool rapidly during storms

Comfortable walking boots with ankle support - city's hilly terrain and rocky hiking trails at altitude require proper footwear

Portable phone charger/power bank - afternoon storms can cause brief power outages in some areas

Cash in Namibian Dollars - many small vendors and township tours prefer cash, ATMs widely available but carry backup

Insect repellent - March moisture increases mosquito activity, especially after evening storms

Reusable water bottle - altitude and dry air require constant hydration, safe tap water throughout city

Compact umbrella - afternoon storms feature brief heavy downpours followed by immediate clearing

Camera with weather protection - March offers spectacular storm and clear-sky photography opportunities

Insider Knowledge

Locals schedule outdoor activities before 1pm and after 6pm to avoid afternoon storms - follow this pattern for best experience and weather timing

March marks the transition to tourism low season - negotiate accommodation rates directly with hotels for 20-30% savings, especially for stays longer than 3 nights

Banjul area becomes pedestrian-friendly during March celebrations - locals gather here for cultural events and food vendors throughout the month

Windhoek's German bakeries (concentrated around Independence Avenue) offer fresh pastries best purchased early morning - locals queue by 7am for daily selection

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 2-5pm storm window - visitors lose entire afternoon to weather delays instead of planning indoor alternatives

Underestimating altitude effects at 1,650m (5,413 ft) - dehydration and sun exposure happen faster, visitors often skip adequate water and sun protection

Booking expensive peak-season tour rates when March offers shoulder pricing - research directly with operators for March-specific discounts averaging 25% off peak rates