Namibia is one of Africa’s premier hunting destinations, offering an extraordinary mix of plains game, stunning terrain, and ethical, well-managed safari operations. If you’re planning your hunting safari in Namibia, timing your trip correctly can make all the difference in your experience and success.
This month-by-month guide will help you understand the seasonal patterns, game movement, weather conditions, and which months are best for specific species.
Namibia’s Hunting Season Overview
The official hunting season in Namibia runs from February 1 to November 30 each year. However, the peak hunting period is between May and October, when dry winter conditions make tracking easier and wildlife more concentrated around water sources.
Month-by-Month Hunting Guide
February – March
- Weather: End of the rainy season. Lush vegetation, unpredictable rain.
- Pros: Great scenery and fewer hunters in the field.
- Cons: Tall grass and thick bush make visibility and stalking difficult.
April
- Weather: Rain begins to taper off. The grass is still long but drying.
- Pros: Pleasant temperatures, start of rutting season for some species.
- Cons: Game is still spread out due to water availability.
May – June (Start of Peak Season)
- Weather: Dry and cool. Vegetation thinning.
- Pros: Game starts congregating at water sources. Prime conditions for tracking.
- Species Highlights:
- Kudu: Rut begins in May, bulls more active and vocal.
- Eland: Easier to track in open areas.
- Leopard: Better success rates for baiting and tracking.
July – August (Prime Time for Big Game)
- Weather: Cool, dry, and clear skies. Ideal stalking conditions.
- Pros: Best time for walk-and-stalk hunts. The game is highly visible.
- Top Species:
- Kudu: Rut still ongoing in early July.
- Sable & Roan Antelope: Often targeted now.
- Predators (Leopard, Jackal): Excellent time due to scarcity of water and active bait sites.
- Warthog & Impala: Abundant and active.
September – October (Warm-Up Begins)
- Weather: Getting warmer, but still dry.
- Pros: Water scarcity increases predictability of game.
- Cons: Temperatures rise and game becomes more nocturnal.
- Species Highlights:
- Springbok: Excellent visibility in dry grasslands.
- Zebra and Wildebeest: Found near limited water sources.
- Bowhunters: Prime time for hunting from blinds at waterholes.
November
- Weather: Hot, early rains may begin mid-month.
- Pros: Opportunity to hunt before the season closes.
- Cons: Conditions vary; humidity increases.
Best Months Overall to Hunt in Namibia
| Month | Conditions | Recommended For |
| May | Start of dry season | Kudu rut, plains game |
| June | Cool and dry | Walk & stalk, leopard, sable |
| July | Peak visibility | Big game, predator hunts |
| August | Best all-around month | Variety of species, ideal weather |
| September | Dry, warm | Waterhole hunting, bowhunting |
Tips for Booking Your Safari
- Book early. Prime weeks in June–August fill quickly with top outfitters.
- Consider your target species. Some, like kudu and eland, are more active during rutting months.
- Bow or rifle? The dry months (July–September) are ideal for bowhunters due to waterhole patterns.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after your first plains game trophy or looking to add an elusive predator to your collection, 2026 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for hunting in Namibia. By choosing the right time of year, you’ll not only increase your chances of success but also ensure an unforgettable safari experience.