"Namibia’s Central Highlands is celebrated for the outstanding hospitality offered at the area’s guesthouses, small lodges and large farms. Here, in the hills between Etosha and Windhoek, it’s the accommodation that is the main attraction. This region separates the Namib Desert from the Kalahari, and it offers the perfect opportunity to stop over on a long journey and to rest and relax, enjoy the warm, genuine Namibian hospitality and indulge in delicious home-cooked meals.”
- Narina Exelby
Central Highlands
When the journey is long, a night or two’s rest in a comfortable home or guesthouse is always so welcome – and that’s exactly what the Central Highlands of Namibia offers. This area of large farms and smaller conservation areas has earned a reputation for the exceptional, genuine hospitality with which guests are received and hosted.
It’s not only a place to relax, however. There are many wonderful guided and unguided walking trails of varying distances around the Central Highlands, and the area’s most beautiful trails are said to be at the sandstone Waterberg Plateau National Park. This park is thought to have Namibia’s only breeding colony of Cape vultures; birding is good here, and there are more than 200 recorded species on the park’s bird list. Endangered species, including roan antelope, sable antelope and white rhinos, have been introduced to this park.
Those wanting to buy souvenirs should be sure to pass through the historic town of Okahandja, which has a fantastic craft market. Wood carvers from further north use Okahandja as a centre from which to sell their wares, and some beautiful pieces are available here. West of the town is the Gross Berman Hot Springs, where there are both warm and cool pools; it’s also a good base for lovely hillside walks.
The night skies are usually very clear out here and the Gamsberg Plateau is renowned as the best place in Namibia from which to gaze at the night skies. There are two observatories here: the International Amateur Observatory (AIS), which is on top of Gamsberg, and at Hakos Guestfarm nearby.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON
This is the peak of the wet season, when temperatures are at their highest - often reaching over 40°C/104°F away from the coast. Rain is likely in much of the country, however generally this is restricted to very dispersed afternoon thunderstorms with clear skies in between. The rains in many locations transform the land into a 'green' and blooming desert.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
This is the peak of the wet season, when temperatures are at their highest - often reaching over 40°C/104°F away from the coast. Rain is likely in much of the country, however generally this is restricted to very dispersed afternoon thunderstorms with clear skies in between. The rains in many locations transform the land into a 'green' and blooming desert.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
This is the peak of the wet season, when temperatures are at their highest - often reaching over 40°C/104°F away from the coast. Rain is likely in much of the country, however generally this is restricted to very dispersed afternoon thunderstorms with clear skies in between. The rains in many locations transform the land into a 'green' and blooming desert.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
The likelihood of rain continues to decrease during this period as Namibia approaches the dry season. Midday temperatures are also a lot more pleasant, between 25-30°C/77-86°F throughout most of the country. The mornings are however rather cool. The rains in many locations transform the land into a 'green' and blooming desert.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
This month marks the start of Namibia's long dry season. The land in many locations is still surprisingly green following the rains earlier in the year. Temperatures are pleasant during the day but can be surprisingly cold at night.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes!
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes!
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes!
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes! .
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes!
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
As temperatures continue to rise they trigger the first of the summer thunderstorms and mark the start of the wet season.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
This is the peak of the wet season, when temperatures are at their highest - often reaching over 40°C/104°F away from the coast. Rain is likely in much of the country, however generally this is restricted to very dispersed afternoon thunderstorms with clear skies in between. The rains in many locations transform the land into a 'green' and blooming desert.
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Explore Central Highlands Properties
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Elegant Farmstead
Elegant Farmstead
Although converted from its original farmhouse form, Elegant Farmstead retains much of its character and makes for a charming guesthouse surrounded by pretty gardens and swathes of African Bush. The Farmstead makes is a perfect ..
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Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp
Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp
With spectacular views across the mountains and Namibian plains, Okonjima Bush Camp is an intimate camp in the wild Namibian bush. Located 15 miles down gravel roads through herds of impala and kudu, it’s certainly remote and ..
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Okonjima Plains Camp
Okonjima Plains Camp
Okonjima Plains Camp is an informal and friendly camp with an enormous modern barn to relax in, oven-baked pizza nights around the campfire and large rooms with plains views. A perfect base for those wanting to visit the AfriCat ..
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Old Traders Lodge
Old Traders Lodge
Set within pretty gardens on the banks of a river, Old Traders Lodge is a privately owned lodge with a classic safari aesthetic. With its inviting atmosphere and elevated decks looking over a busy waterhole, the lodge is ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
