Things to Do in Namibia in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Namibia
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Green season transformation - February rains create stunning emerald landscapes and flowing waterfalls at Epupa Falls and throughout Kaokoland that completely dry up by May
- Wildlife photography paradise - Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, making sightings at Etosha's waterholes 40% more frequent than dry season months
- Moderate temperatures for hiking - Daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) make Fish River Canyon and Brandberg ascents comfortable, versus 35°C+ (95°F+) in October-November
- Migratory bird bonanza - Over 300 species present including European migrants, with massive flamingo congregations at Walvis Bay reaching peak numbers
Considerations
- Unpredictable road conditions - 4WD tracks in Damaraland and Kaokoland can become impassable for 24-48 hours after heavy afternoon storms
- Camping challenges - Afternoon thunderstorms with 60km/h (37mph) winds make tent camping uncomfortable; lodge availability becomes critical
- Photography limitations - Frequent cloud cover and haze reduce those iconic Sossusvlei sunrise shots that define Namibian landscape photography
Best Activities in February
Etosha National Park Wildlife Viewing
February's green season concentrates wildlife around permanent waterholes, creating exceptional viewing opportunities. Morning game drives (6-10am) offer the best sightings as temperatures are coolest and animals most active. The 70% humidity keeps dust down for clearer photography. Afternoon thunderstorms typically hit 2-4pm, so plan indoor activities then.
Sossusvlei Dune Climbing and Desert Photography
February's moderate 25°C (77°F) highs make the strenuous 300m (984 ft) Dune 45 climb manageable compared to 40°C+ (104°F+) winter months. Start climbs at 5:30am to catch sunrise and avoid afternoon storms. The increased humidity creates occasional dramatic cloud formations over the dunes - rare photographic opportunities.
Swakopmund Adventure Activities
February's cooler coastal temperatures and reduced wind make it ideal for sandboarding, quad biking, and scenic flights. The 20°C (68°F) ocean temperature is warmest of the year for dolphin boat trips. Afternoon fog banks create dramatic photography opportunities but can cancel flights.
Fish River Canyon Hiking
February offers the only comfortable temperatures for the challenging 85km (53 mile) Fish River Canyon Trail, with highs of 25°C (77°F) versus scorching 40°C+ (104°F+) in winter. The 5-day trail requires excellent fitness but February's cooler nights aid recovery. Day visitors enjoy rim walks without extreme heat.
Damaraland Desert Elephant Tracking
February rains create temporary water sources, spreading desert-adapted elephant herds across a wider area - making tracking more adventurous and rewarding when successful. The ephemeral rivers in Huab and Ugab valleys flow briefly, creating lush green corridors that elephants follow.
Skeleton Coast Scenic Flights and Seal Colonies
February's variable weather creates dramatic coastal scenery with fog banks, rough seas, and shipwrecks appearing and disappearing in mist. Cape Cross seal colony reaches peak breeding activity with 100,000+ seals present. Morning flights have best weather windows before afternoon fog rolls in.
February Events & Festivals
Windhoek Carnival
Southern Hemisphere's largest carnival celebration featuring Brazilian-style parades, live music, and street parties. Local and international performers create a vibrant cultural fusion unique to Namibia's German-African heritage.
Traditional Authority Cultural Festivals
Various Herero and Damara communities hold harvest celebrations following February rains. These authentic cultural experiences include traditional dress, dancing, and local food preparation - timing varies by community rainfall patterns.