!Han /Awab Conservancy

!Han /Awab Conservancy is a protected area in Namibia.

!Han /Awab Conservancy at a Glance

Location
Southern Interior & Fish River Canyon, Namibia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-26.408123, 17.365334
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry winter) for Etosha wildlife. Year-round for Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast.

Getting to !Han /Awab Conservancy

Nearest airport: Bethanien Airport (FYBC), 24 km away.

Nearest international airport: Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), 437 km away.

Weather & Climate in !Han /Awab Conservancy

The warmest temperatures in !Han /Awab Conservancy occur in January, averaging 26.4°C (up to 33.8°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 13.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in May with average rainfall of 0.4mm. Average humidity: 31.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.4°C (rainfall: 23.1mm)
  • February: 25.9°C (rainfall: 14.7mm)
  • March: 24.6°C (rainfall: 6.8mm)
  • April: 21.8°C (rainfall: 5.5mm)
  • May: 18.5°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • June: 14.2°C (rainfall: 1.7mm)
  • July: 13.6°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • August: 15.3°C (rainfall: 1.9mm)
  • September: 18.4°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • October: 22.7°C (rainfall: 5.2mm)
  • November: 23.8°C (rainfall: 3.3mm)
  • December: 25.0°C (rainfall: 2.5mm)

Best Time to Visit !Han /Awab Conservancy

The best months to visit !Han /Awab Conservancy are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.38°C, rainfall 23.1mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 33.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.94°C, rainfall 14.7mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 36%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.56°C, rainfall 6.8mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 34.4%
  • April: Great, temperature 21.78°C, rainfall 5.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 33.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 18.46°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 31.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 14.22°C, rainfall 1.7mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 38.4%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.59°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 33.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 15.32°C, rainfall 1.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 31.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 18.39°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 27.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.68°C, rainfall 5.2mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 25.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 23.76°C, rainfall 3.3mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 26.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.99°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 13.2 hrs, humidity 27.7%

Wildlife in !Han /Awab Conservancy

Home to 14 recorded species including 8 iconic birds, 6 birds of prey.

Recommended Packing List for !Han /Awab Conservancy

Based on average temperature of 20.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 32%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 21°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in !Han /Awab Conservancy

3 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southern Interior & Fish River Canyon

Visitor Tips - !Han /Awab Conservancy

What truly sets !Han /Awab apart is its commitment to community-based conservation, offering an authentic insight into Namibia's rich cultural heritage alongside incredible wildlife viewing. We love the feeling of vast, untouched wilderness here, where the stark beauty of the landscape is as captivating as the elusive desert-adapted species you might encounter. It's a place where you feel genuinely connected to the land and its people, far from the crowds.

Gate Times

We recommend confirming specific gate times with your chosen lodge or tour operator, as access to conservancies like !Han /Awab is often managed through private concessions. Generally, activities start early morning and end at sunset. Permits are usually arranged by your accommodation as part of your booking.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. We suggest a pooled tip for general camp staff (cooks, cleaners) of around N$50-N$100 per guest per day. For your dedicated guide, N$100-N$200 per guest per day is appropriate, given their expertise and long hours. Rangers, if separate from your guide, might receive N$50-N$100 per activity. Always tip in local currency or USD, discreetly, and at the end of your stay.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Namibia

Travel advisory for Namibia

!Han /Awab Conservancy FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit !Han /Awab Conservancy for wildlife viewing and comfortable conditions?

The dry winter months from May to October are ideal for visiting !Han /Awab Conservancy. During this period, wildlife congregates around water sources, making sightings more predictable, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities. The clear skies also offer excellent stargazing opportunities.

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at !Han /Awab Conservancy, and how does the low crowding enhance the experience?

!Han /Awab Conservancy is home to a diverse array of Namibian wildlife, including oryx, springbok, Hartmann's mountain zebra, and various raptors. Due to its exceptionally low crowding, visitors often enjoy incredibly intimate and undisturbed wildlife encounters, a rare luxury in many protected areas.

Are there specific activities available at !Han /Awab Conservancy, and is it suitable for self-drive safaris?

Visitors to !Han /Awab Conservancy can enjoy game drives, bird watching, and guided nature walks. Its well-maintained tracks and clear signage make it very suitable for self-drive safaris, offering a sense of independent exploration within a safe and protected environment.

What is the typical cost structure for visiting !Han /Awab Conservancy, and how should I plan my budget?

While specific costs vary, expect to budget for conservancy entrance fees, accommodation (which ranges from camping to lodges), and any guided activities. It's advisable to book accommodation and guided tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred options.

Beyond the absence of malaria, what other health and safety considerations should I be aware of when visiting !Han /Awab Conservancy?

While !Han /Awab Conservancy is malaria-free, visitors should still prioritize sun protection, hydration, and carry a basic first-aid kit. The conservancy is generally very safe, but always adhere to park rules, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and inform staff of your planned routes if venturing off main roads.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Bradt Guide: Namibia by Chris McIntyre - Comprehensive guide to Namibia - Etosha, Sossusvlei, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland. Self-drive routes, camp reviews, and wildlife guides.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.