January is outside the preferred season for Etosha; most visitors choose August to October.
Weather in Etosha in January
Average highs in January are around 33°C, dropping to about 19°C at night. This is the rainy season, so expect frequent showers and occasionally harder roads.
What happens in January
After good rains parts of the pan may hold water and attract flamingos, while animals disperse from waterholes.
Experience quality this month is 3 out of 5, and visitor levels are quiet. The best period overall is August to October.
What to pack
- light cotton clothing, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water
- a rain jacket and a dry bag for your camera
- binoculars for distant wildlife
Etosha through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| February | 19–31 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 18–30 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 15–31 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 10–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| June | 7–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 6–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 9–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 13–33 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 17–35 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 18–34 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| December | 18–35 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
Other good choices in January
- Bwindi Uganda
- Ngorongoro Tanzania
- Serengeti Tanzania
- Volcanoes Rwanda
- Lake Nakuru Kenya
- Murchison Falls Uganda
Etosha in DecemberBest safaris in JanuaryEtosha in February
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit Etosha?
January is outside the preferred season for Etosha; most visitors choose August to October.
What is the weather like in Etosha in January?
Highs around 33°C, rainy season.
Is Etosha busy in January?
Visitor levels in January are quiet.
Sources: MEFT Namibia - Etosha National Park · Namibia Wildlife Resorts - Etosha National Park · Weather2Travel - Etosha climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.
