Christmas in Windhoek lands right in the middle of summer, so you can bet on warm days and mild nights. Average daytime temperatures hit around 30–32 °C (86–90 °F), and nights drop to about 16–18 °C (61–64 °F).
December brings frequent rain showers, but they usually don’t stick around for long. Most days still get plenty of sunshine.
You’ll notice the air feels more humid compared to the dry, cooler months earlier in the year. Afternoon thunderstorms often sweep in and cool things down, which can be a real relief.
The mix of bright skies, longer daylight, and bursts of rain gives the holiday season in Namibia’s capital a lively, energetic vibe.
If you’re planning to spend Christmas outdoors, you’ll probably find the weather comfortable for most daytime activities. Still, it’s smart to keep an umbrella or rain jacket close by for those sudden showers.
Warmth, sun, and rain all come together to make December a unique time to experience Windhoek’s climate.
Overview of Windhoek’s Climate
Windhoek sits in a semi-arid region where rain is scarce, sunshine is a given, and temperatures swing between warm summers and fairly mild winters.
You’ll spot clear seasonal patterns, with the wet months packed into summer and long, dry winters stretching out for months.
Climate Classification and Geography
Windhoek sits in the Köppen BSh classification, which means it has a subtropical steppe climate. That means low annual rainfall, loads of sunshine, and moderate humidity.
The city sits at about 1,650 meters (5,413 feet) above sea level. This elevation keeps things cooler than in Namibia’s desert lowlands.
Nights can get surprisingly cool even in summer. In winter, mornings sometimes dip close to 6°C (43°F).
Because Windhoek is in central Namibia, it doesn’t get the coastal fog that sweeps over Atlantic towns. Instead, the city enjoys clearer skies and more stable air.
The surrounding hills shape the local wind, often bringing breezes that cut the humidity and make evenings pretty comfortable.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
You’ll notice four main periods: summer (November–February), autumn (March–April), winter (May–August), and spring (September–October).
Each season brings its own mix of rain, temperature, and humidity.
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Summer: Hot and wet. Daytime highs often reach 28–30°C (82–86°F). Rain showers and thunderstorms pop up a lot, especially in January and February.
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Autumn: Things cool down, with highs around 24–26°C (75–79°F). By April, rain becomes rare.
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Winter: Dry and cool. Highs average 19–23°C (66–74°F). From June to August, there’s basically no rain. Nights can get chilly.
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Spring: Warm and dry. By October, highs get close to 29°C (85°F), but humidity stays low.
This cycle makes it easier to plan travel and outdoor activities, with fewer weather curveballs.
Annual Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Throughout the year, Windhoek’s average temperatures run from about 6°C (43°F) at night in winter up to 29–30°C (84–86°F) on summer afternoons. Sometimes it gets hotter than 35°C (95°F), but that’s rare.
Rain falls mostly between November and April. February is the wettest, with an average of 100 mm (4 in).
From June through August, you won’t see rain at all.
Humidity changes with the seasons, too. It averages about 50% in late summer and drops to around 20–25% in winter, making those months feel especially crisp and dry.
Sunshine is a constant. Windhoek gets over 3,700 hours of sun every year, which means bright skies in every season.
Typical December Weather in Windhoek
December in Windhoek means hot days, cooler nights, and the start of the summer rainy season. Expect a mix of sunshine, afternoon showers, and noticeable swings between day and night temps.
Average Temperatures in December
December ranks among the hottest months in Windhoek. Daytime highs usually land between 30°C and 32°C (86°F to 90°F), though some afternoons can spike up to 34°C (93°F).
Nights cool off to about 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F), making evenings more pleasant.
The air here is semi-arid, so it feels drier than in tropical places. That makes the heat a bit easier to handle.
Mornings start mild, but temperatures rise quickly once the sun’s up.
Pack light clothes for the day. A thin jacket or sweater helps when it cools off at night.
The big temperature swing between day and night is just part of Windhoek’s December weather.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
December kicks off the main rainy season. On average, rain falls on 10–13 days during the month, adding up to 40 mm to 50 mm (about 1.5–2 inches).
Showers usually hit in the afternoon or evening and rarely last long.
Humidity sits around 40–50%, which is pretty moderate compared to coastal spots. After rain, you might feel a bit more moisture in the air.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, it’s smart to do them earlier in the day. Storms tend to roll in later, bringing short but sometimes heavy downpours.
Roads can get slick, so give yourself extra time if you’re out and about when it’s wet.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Windhoek still scores plenty of sunshine in December, even with more clouds around. Expect about 8 to 10 hours of sun each day.
Clouds show up more often than in earlier months, but the sky usually clears after a shower.
Daylight stretches for about 13.5 hours, with sunrise near 5:30 a.m. and sunset close to 7:00 p.m.
That gives you long days to explore the city and the nearby landscapes.
The sun is intense this time of year. UV levels stay high, so sunscreen, hats, and staying hydrated are musts.
Even when it’s a bit cloudy, the sun can burn fast.
Wind Conditions in December
Winds in December are mostly light or moderate. Average speeds run from 10 to 15 km/h (6–9 mph), which helps cool things down a bit.
Wind direction changes, but afternoon breezes often follow thunderstorms. You might catch stronger gusts during storms, but they don’t last long.
For most folks, wind isn’t a problem. In fact, it actually makes the hottest parts of the day feel better.
If you’re hiking or spending time outside, the breeze can be a real plus under the strong sun.
Weather Conditions During Christmas Week
In Windhoek around Christmas, you’ll get hot daytime temperatures, cooler nights, and a mix of sun with some rain.
Weather can shift a lot in a single day, so being ready for both heat and quick showers will help you stay comfortable.
Temperature Fluctuations Around Christmas
During Christmas week, daytime highs in Windhoek usually reach 29°C to 32°C (84°F–90°F). Sometimes it gets a bit hotter, so shade and water are important.
Nights bring a break from the heat, with lows around 16°C to 18°C (61°F–64°F).
Cooler evenings make it nice for outdoor dinners or evening strolls.
You’ll notice the swing between day and night temps. Light, breathable clothes for the day and something thin for evenings will keep you comfortable.
Overall, expect warm to hot days and nights that cool off enough for a good sleep.
Chances of Rain and Cloud Cover
December is right in the middle of Windhoek’s rainy season. Around Christmas, rainfall averages 60–70 mm for the month, with about 7–9 wet days.
Showers are usually quick and scattered, not all-day affairs.
Rain tends to show up in the late afternoon or evening. These downpours cool things down fast, but don’t usually last long.
Clouds are more common than in the dry months, with partly cloudy skies about a third of the time.
Still, you’ll see plenty of sun since Windhoek gets over 280 hours of sunshine in December.
A light rain jacket or umbrella comes in handy, especially if you’ll be out in the afternoons.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity during Christmas week stays moderate, averaging 30–45%.
It doesn’t feel as sticky as in tropical places, but the heat and sun can still wear you out if you’re active.
Dry air makes sweat evaporate quickly, so it’s easy to forget how much water you’re losing. Keep a water bottle close.
Air is usually calm, with gentle breezes around 1 m/s, so there’s not much natural cooling.
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are smart to have, since the UV is strong with all that sunshine.
If you’re planning your day, early mornings and evenings are the most comfortable times to get outside.
How Christmas Weather Compares to Other Months
Christmas in Windhoek lands just as the rainy season gets going.
Temps stay warm, humidity starts rising, and rain is more common compared to the dry months. The climate at this point sits between the peak summer heat and the cooler, dry winter.
Comparison to Early Summer Months
December weather in Windhoek looks a lot like November, but you’ll notice more rain. November averages about 19 mm (0.75″), while December jumps to 49 mm (1.93″).
That’s a clear sign the wet season is here.
December highs average near 29–30°C (84–86°F), and nights cool to about 15°C (59°F).
That’s a touch warmer than November nights, which hover around 16–17°C.
Humidity climbs in December, hitting about 45–50%. The air feels heavier, even if the temps are similar.
Compared to October, the difference is bigger. October is hot and bone dry, with just 11 mm (0.43″) of rain.
By December, the scenery greens up, clouds roll in more often, and afternoon showers become a thing.
Contrast With Winter Conditions
Winter in Windhoek, from June to August, couldn’t feel more different from Christmas.
Rainfall drops to zero, skies stay almost always clear, and humidity falls as low as 23%.
July, the coldest month, brings highs of 19–20°C (67–68°F) and lows near 6°C (42°F).
December nights are much milder, rarely dipping below 15°C (59°F).
Daylight changes too. Winter days get about 10.8–11.4 hours of sun, while December stretches past 13 hours.
Comfort-wise, the gap is big. Winter is crisp and dry, while Christmas is warm, humid, and sometimes stormy.
You trade chilly evenings for a shot at summer rain.
Seasonal Shifts in Weather Patterns
Windhoek’s climate runs in clear cycles that shape how December stacks up against the rest of the year.
Rain builds from November, peaks in February, then fades out by April. December sits right at the start of this wet stretch.
During this time, you’ll see more thunderstorms, usually in the late afternoon. They don’t last long, but they can be heavy and bring lightning.
Leading into winter, rain disappears, and things dry out completely.
December marks a turning point—landscapes turn greener, wildlife gets more active, and outdoor conditions can flip quickly.
For travelers, it’s wise to prep for both hot days and surprise showers. Unlike the steady winter months, December can swing from clear blue skies to sudden downpours all in one day.
Travel Tips for Visiting Windhoek at Christmas
December in Windhoek means hot days, cooler nights, and a mix of sunshine with the occasional shower.
You’ll want to prepare for both the heat and the chance of rain while making the most of outdoor adventures and staying healthy.
What to Pack for December Weather
Daytime highs usually hit around 31°C (88°F), and nights drop to about 17°C (63°F). You’ll want light, breathable clothes—think cotton shirts, shorts, or skirts—to stay comfortable.
Grab a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The sun gets intense out there.
Since December brings moderate rainfall (about 68 mm over eight days), toss a compact rain jacket or small umbrella in your bag. Waterproof sandals or shoes that dry quickly come in handy if you’re out during a shower.
Evenings cool off, so pack a thin long-sleeve shirt or a light sweater. Bring a refillable water bottle—dry air and heat can sneak up on you and leave you dehydrated.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
Christmas lands right in Namibia’s summer, and that’s low season for tourism. You’ll notice fewer crowds at the big attractions.
Still, Windhoek’s markets and restaurants stay lively, and you get to enjoy the festive buzz without feeling packed in.
You can still get out into nature, but it’s smart to plan around the heat. Mornings work best for walking tours, checking out the Christuskirche, or wandering along Independence Avenue.
Afternoons get pretty hot, so ducking into museums or shaded cafés gives you a nice break.
If you’re up for adventure outside Windhoek, you might consider day trips to the Sossusvlei dunes or the Skeleton Coast. Just know the long drives can feel exhausting in the heat.
Wildlife viewing in December isn’t as predictable as during the dry season. Birdwatchers, though, will love it—especially in wetter spots like the Caprivi Strip.
Health and Safety Considerations
Strong sun, high temps, and some humidity mean you’ll need to pace yourself. Drink plenty of water and try to avoid being out during midday when the UV is at its worst.
Mosquitoes show up more during the rainy season. Windhoek doesn’t have as much malaria risk as northern Namibia, but you should still use insect repellent and wear long sleeves around dusk.
Driving brings its own set of challenges. Rain can make rural roads slippery, and visibility can drop fast. If you’re driving, give yourself extra time and avoid traveling after dark.
Inside the city, keep an eye on your valuables, especially in busy spots. Petty theft does happen sometimes.
Best Time to Visit Windhoek for Ideal Weather
Windhoek’s got a dry, sunny climate most of the year, with clear changes in temperature and rainfall from season to season. When you go really depends on whether you like things warm and lively or prefer cooler, dry months with barely any rain.
Advantages of Visiting in December
December sits right in the rainy summer season, but rain usually doesn’t last long and sunshine follows. Daytime highs average around 32°C (90°F), while nights dip to about 17°C (63°F).
Humidity goes up compared to winter, but Windhoek’s elevation (about 1,700 meters) keeps it from feeling stifling.
You get longer daylight—about 9 hours of sunshine per day—so there’s plenty of time for exploring or day trips.
December brings a festive vibe. Local markets and cultural events pick up, and restaurants often serve up seasonal menus.
You might run into quick afternoon showers, but they usually pass fast, leaving everything fresh and a bit cooler.
If you like warm weather and don’t mind some rain, December feels energetic and fun in Namibia’s capital.
Other Recommended Months
The dry season from May to September is usually considered the best time to visit Windhoek. It barely rains, skies stay clear, and humidity drops low.
Daytime highs run from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), though nights in June and July can get close to freezing.
This time of year works especially well for folks who want mild weather for walking tours, outdoor cafés, or day trips to game reserves. Wildlife viewing is fantastic since animals gather at waterholes, making safaris more rewarding.
October and November mark the shift back toward summer. Temperatures rise into the low 30s °C, and the first rains show up.
These months feel warmer than winter but stay drier than December, so you get a nice balance between comfort and a taste of the new season.
Events and Festivities Around Christmas
If you visit Windhoek around Christmas, you’ll notice the city feels festive but still laid-back. Shops and public spaces put up decorations, and a few churches invite visitors to their Christmas services.
Local craft markets get bigger in December, with stalls full of handmade gifts, textiles, and ornaments. It’s a great chance to pick up souvenirs and support Namibian artisans at the same time.
Some hotels and restaurants put together special meals for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. They usually mix Namibian dishes with holiday classics, so you end up with a dining experience you probably won’t get anywhere else.
Namibia doesn’t really go for huge Christmas festivals. Instead, the city’s smaller events and family gatherings make things feel welcoming. You’ll probably find the holiday quieter than in big cities, but honestly, that’s part of the charm.