Skeleton Coast National Park

Weather & Climate

17 Skeleton Coast Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Climate Chart Skeleton Coast National Park – 0-705m / 0-2,313ft

The Skeleton Coast is characterized by heavy fog and a desert climate tempered by cold sea breezes. Early mornings tend to be very misty, but this often clears by mid-morning. Aside from the fog, it is mostly sunny and rainfall is low.

Dry Season –May to October – Winter

This is the coolest time of the year, with practically no rain. The winter months experience heavy fog and strong westerly winds, coming off the ocean and cooling things down.

May, June, July & August – Mornings tend to be foggy, but it is mostly sunny in the afternoon. There is almost no rain. These are the coolest months and the average afternoon temperature is 25°C/77°F. It is cold in the early morning with temperatures averaging 11°C/52°F.
September & October – It is dry and sunny with early morning fog. This is the end of winter and daytime temperatures average 26°C/79°F, but it can get increasingly hot during the day. Early morning temperatures are around 12°C/54°F.

Wet Season –November to April – Summer

The Wet season falls in the warmer summer months. The fog and cold sea winds usually prevent searing conditions. Although this is the Wet season, rainfall is very low. Early morning temperatures reach about 15°C/59°F.

November & December – The morning fog and cold sea winds keep average daytime temperatures to 28°C/82°F, but they will soar once there is less wind and the sun breaks out. It only rains occasionally.
January, February & March – There is more rainfall during these months, but it’s still quite low. It is mostly dry and sunny. Daytime temperatures average 29°C/84°F, but will be higher when the cold sea winds are less and the fog clears.
April – Rainfall decreases rapidly in April. Average afternoon temperatures of 28°C/82°F are typical.