Namibia
About Namibia
Namibia, located on the West Coast of Southern Africa, is one of the least densely populated countries on the planet. It has a population density of 2,6 people per square kilometre. In contrast, the United Kingdom has 395 people per square kilometre, and Germany 236. The Namib desert (meaning “vast place”) is considered to be the oldest desert in the world.
People of Namibia
The original inhabitants of Namibia were the San, Damara, and Nama peoples. The 14th century brought the Herero and the Himba peoples. The largest ethnic group is now the Ovambo people. People of British, German and South Africa decent make up around 5% of the population due to historical rule of these nations. Namibia gained full independence from South Africa in 1990.
Weather Overview
December to March is generally hot in Namibia. Rain and thundershowers come in January. April and May may still have rain, as temperatures slowly start to drop. The dry winter months are from June to September. Winter days are moderate to warm, and the nights are cold. Expect frost inland and in the deserts. Temperatures start to rise again in October, with some rainfall bringing relief after the dry season.
Winter temperatures range around mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). Summer temperatures are in the mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit).
Star Gazing
The Namibian skies are exquisite. Low population density, and almost no air pollution mean that there are millions of stars clearly visible at night. Some of the top venues for star gazing can be found here.
