Namibia

Namibia is a land of stark contrasts and raw beauty. Located in Southern Africa, it is known for its surreal landscapes—where the fiery red dunes of the Namib Desert meet the icy Atlantic Ocean, and where wildlife roams freely through vast, unspoiled terrain. Formerly a German colony, Namibia’s complex history blends African and European influences, seen in its languages, architecture, and cuisine. Independence came only in 1990, making it one of the youngest nations in Africa, yet it’s quickly become a favorite for those seeking both solitude and adventure.

Geographically, Namibia offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the continent. The Namib—the world’s oldest desert—extends along its western coast, while the Etosha Pan to the north becomes a shimmering lake in the rainy season, attracting abundant wildlife. In the south, the Fish River Canyon carves out the second-largest canyon in the world. With one of the lowest population densities on Earth, Namibia promises expansive skies, peaceful journeys, and a profound connection with nature.

Why Visit Namibia?

Surreal Landscapes: From the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the eerie Deadvlei pan, Namibia’s desert beauty is unmatched.

Wildlife Viewing: Etosha National Park offers incredible game drives, while desert-adapted elephants roam Damaraland.

Stargazing Paradise: With low light pollution, Namibia offers some of the clearest night skies on Earth.

Rich Culture & History: Visit Himba villages or learn about German colonial heritage in Swakopmund.

Adventure Activities: Sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving in the coastal dunes of Swakopmund.

Solitude & Space: One of the world’s least densely populated countries—ideal for reflection and escape.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest due to it being the “low season” for tourism.
Fewer Crowds: Major attractions like Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei, and Swakopmund are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate and serene experience.
Exceptional Wildlife Viewing (Etosha): Despite being winter, this is actually the best time for wildlife viewing in Etosha. Animals congregate around waterholes as other sources dry up, making them easier to spot.
Clear Skies & Mild Days: Days are generally sunny and mild, perfect for game drives and exploring. Nights can be cool to cold.
Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Namibia like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

Main Drawbacks:

Cold Nights & Mornings: Temperatures can drop significantly at night and in the early mornings, especially in the desert regions. Warm clothing is essential.
Dry Landscapes: The landscapes will be very dry and dusty, as this is the dry season. While great for wildlife, some might prefer greener scenery.
Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter compared to summer, limiting sightseeing time somewhat.
Some Closures/Limited Services: A few very seasonal camps or activities might be closed in the deepest off-season, though this is less common for major attractions.

Key Regions:

Etosha National Park: This is the prime time for wildlife viewing. The lack of thick vegetation and animals congregating around waterholes makes for incredible game drive opportunities. The cooler temperatures are also more comfortable for extended periods in vehicles.
Sossusvlei & Deadvlei: The iconic red dunes are stunning year-round, but the cooler temperatures make climbing them more manageable. With fewer tourists, you can truly appreciate the vastness and silence of the Namib Desert.
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay: These coastal towns offer a pleasant escape from the inland heat. Activities like quad biking, sandboarding, and marine cruises are still available, often with fewer participants.
Damaraland & Kaokoveld: While more remote, these regions offer unique desert-adapted wildlife and stunning geological formations, which are still accessible and rewarding in winter.

Key Advantages:

Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat of summer or the cold nights of winter.
Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer (European summer holidays), but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in summer, though slightly higher than deep winter.
Transitional Landscapes: In autumn (April-May), the landscapes are often still relatively green from the summer rains. In spring (September-October), you might see the first signs of new growth.
Good Wildlife Viewing: While not as concentrated as in winter, wildlife viewing remains good, especially towards the end of the dry season (September/October) as animals still rely on waterholes.

Main Drawbacks:

Increasing Temperatures (Spring): As spring progresses into October, temperatures can start to rise significantly, especially in the interior and desert regions, potentially reaching hot levels.
Potential for Early Rains (Autumn): Late autumn (April-May) can still experience some residual showers from the summer rainy season, potentially impacting road conditions in some areas.
Dust (Spring): As the dry season extends into spring, dust can be more prevalent.

Key Regions:

Central Namibia (Windhoek, Otjiwarongo): Enjoyable temperatures for exploring the capital and surrounding areas.
Waterberg Plateau Park: Great for hiking and wildlife viewing in comfortable conditions.
Caprivi Strip (Zambezi Region): Particularly lush and vibrant in autumn (April-May) after the rains, with excellent birdwatching and diverse wildlife. In spring, as it dries out, larger mammals become easier to spot.
Fish River Canyon: Comfortable temperatures for exploring the canyon rim and potential for longer hikes (though extreme heat can still be a factor in late spring).

Mid-Summer (November – March, excluding holidays): This is Namibia’s “green season” or rainy season, coinciding with European winter holidays. While the landscapes are lush and vibrant, and birdwatching is excellent, this is the peak tourist season for those escaping colder climates. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions will be crowded. Wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to thicker vegetation and animals being more dispersed with ample water sources. Temperatures can be very hot, especially in the interior and desert regions, with occasional heavy downpours and thunderstorms.

Christmas and New Year Holiday Period: This period sees a significant surge in prices and crowds across all major destinations, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Day. Booking well in advance is essential.

Easter Holidays: The Easter period can also see a brief but noticeable increase in domestic and regional tourism, leading to higher prices and more crowds at popular spots.

Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?

Essential Trip Information

Visa and Entry Requirements

Many nationalities can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival (including citizens from the EU, UK, US, and Canada for stays up to 90 days).
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay, with at least one blank page.
Travelers may be asked for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.
Always verify the most current entry requirements at the official Namibia immigration website.

Currency

Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are accepted, but ZAR is not accepted back in South Africa.
US$1 ≈ NAD18 (approximate, rates vary).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

Before Your Trip: Bring some USD for exchange or withdraw NAD/ZAR at Windhoek Airport ATMs.
During Your Trip: Use ATMs in towns (Standard Bank, FNB). Visa/Mastercard widely accepted in urban areas.
What to Avoid: Remote lodges often don’t accept cards—carry cash when traveling off-grid.

Language

English is the official language, though Afrikaans, German, and indigenous languages are commonly spoken.
Helpful phrases: “Dankie” (Thank you in Afrikaans), “Hallo” (Hello), “Waar is…?” (Where is…?)

Safety & Security

Generally safe for travelers, but caution is needed in Windhoek at night.
Petty theft can occur—lock cars, don’t leave valuables visible.
Desert driving requires preparation: fuel, water, and a reliable GPS.
Emergency number: 10111 (police)

Health & Insurance

No vaccines required for most travelers, but yellow fever vaccine required if arriving from a risk area.
Malaria risk in the north (Etosha, Caprivi) – take precautions.
Tap water is safe in major towns, but bottled water is best in rural areas.
Travel insurance strongly recommended due to remote locations.

Transportation

Self-driving is the most popular and scenic way to explore. Roads are good, but often gravel.
No rail options for tourists; public buses are limited.
Domestic flights connect Windhoek to Swakopmund, Etosha, and other areas.
Driving at night is discouraged due to wildlife crossings.

Price Level

Namibia is moderately priced but becomes more expensive in remote lodges or national parks.

Accommodation

Budget: Hostels or campsites (US$20–60/night)
Mid-range: Guesthouses or 3-star lodges (US$70–150/night)
Luxury: Safari lodges or desert retreats (US$250–600+/night)

Food

Street food/local spots: US$5–10
Casual dining: US$15–30/person
Fine dining at lodges: US$40–70/person

Drinks

Beer: US$1–3 (local Windhoek Lager is popular)
Cocktails: US$5–10

Transportation

Car rental: US$50–100/day (4×4 needed for remote areas)
Domestic flights: From US$150+ (Windhoek to Walvis Bay)
Minibus taxis: Inexpensive but unreliable for tourists

Money-Saving Tips

Self-drive and stay at community-run campsites.
Buy snacks and drinks in supermarkets before long drives.
Travel in shoulder season (April–June) for lower lodge rates.

Explore South Africa

Planning Your Trip

Best Time To Visit

Namibia has a semi-arid climate with dramatic landscapes ranging from desert dunes to wildlife-rich savannahs. The best time to visit depends on your priorities—safari, scenery, or mild temperatures.

Dry Season (Etosha, Damaraland, Namib Desert):

Best: May–October – Cooler, dry weather (59–82°F / 15–28°C). Ideal for game viewing as animals gather around waterholes. Clear skies for photography.
Avoid: November–April – Hot and humid in the north (up to 95°F / 35°C); afternoon showers may disrupt activities.

Namib Desert (Sossusvlei, Swakopmund):

Best: May–September – Pleasant daytime temps (70–79°F / 21–26°C), cool nights. Fewer sandstorms.
Avoid: December–February – Very hot midday temps (~95°F / 35°C), especially in inland desert areas.

Skeleton Coast & Swakopmund:

Year-round: Mild temps (~64–72°F / 18–22°C), often foggy due to cold Benguela current. Coastal fog can be atmospheric but chilly.

Bold Recommendation: Visit between May–October for wildlife safaris, clear skies, and milder temperatures across the country.

Local Customs And Etiquette

Greeting Culture: Say hello and shake hands (with both men and women). Common greeting: “How are you?” / “How did you sleep?”
Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or indigenous communities.
Tipping: 10% at restaurants; US$1–2 for porters. Safari guides: US$10–20/day.
Dress Code: Modest in rural areas; light, breathable clothing for desert travel. Bring layers for chilly nights.
Water Use: Water is scarce—use conservatively, especially in desert regions.

Budgeting For Your Trip

Accommodation: Campsites (US$10–30), guesthouses (US$50–120), luxury lodges (US$350+).

Food:

Local meals: ~US$5–10 (braai, kapana).
Sit-down: ~US$15–25 per meal.
Upscale dining: ~US$40+ per person.

Transport:

Car rental (4×4): US$80–120/day.
Gas: ~US$1.20/litre (~US$4.50/gallon).
Domestic flight: ~US$250–300.

Activities:

Park entry (Etosha, Namib-Naukluft): ~US$5–10/person.
Hot air balloon (Sossusvlei): ~US$400.
Guided safari: ~US$50–100/day.

Daily Budget:

Budget: US$90–130 (campsites, self-drive, simple meals).
Mid-range: US$180–300 (lodges, guided excursions, restaurant dining).
Luxury: US$400+ (charter flights, top-end safari lodges, private guides).

Internet & Mobile

Free Wi-Fi: Available in most guesthouses and lodges in towns (less reliable in remote areas).
SIM Cards: MTC and TN Mobile offer prepaid SIMs at airports or malls (US$10–20 for 10GB).
eSIMs: Supported via Airalo and other providers—check coverage in desert zones.

Travel Insurance

Highly recommended due to long driving distances, wildlife excursions, and desert terrain.
Covers: Medical care (especially evacuation from remote areas), car breakdowns, delays.
Adventure coverage: Ensure your policy includes hot air ballooning, sandboarding, or remote trekking.

Accomodation Options

Namibia offers a wide range of lodging—from luxury desert lodges to rustic campsites.

Luxury:

Dune-side: Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Little Kulala.
Safari lodges: Ongava Lodge (Etosha), Mowani Mountain Camp (Damaraland).

Mid-range:

Guest farms: Okonjima Plains Camp, Namutoni Rest Camp.
Desert hotels: Desert Camp (Sossusvlei), Cornerstone Guesthouse (Swakopmund).

Budget:

Campsites: ~US$10–20 per person (with/without facilities).
Budget guesthouses: ~US$30–60/night in towns like Windhoek or Lüderitz.

Unique Stays:

Shipwreck-styled lodges (Skeleton Coast).
Traditional Himba village homestays (near Opuwo).

Tip: Many lodges are in remote areas—book in advance, especially June–October.

Getting Around

Namibia is vast, with long distances between highlights—transport must be well planned.

Self-Drive:

Most popular option. Roads are well-maintained gravel or tarred (especially B1/B2 highways).
4×4 rental recommended for remote areas like Skeleton Coast or Kaokoland (~US$80–120/day).
Drive cautiously on gravel—flat tires are common.

Domestic Flights:

Charter flights are available to lodges or between cities (e.g., Windhoek–Etosha), but expensive (~US$250+ per leg).
Great for saving time on long routes (Etosha to Sossusvlei is ~8 hours by car).

Guided Tours:

Small group or private tours with driver-guides (~US$150–250/day).
Ideal for first-timers or those wanting stress-free logistics.

Buses:

Intercity buses (e.g., Intercape) run between Windhoek and coastal towns (US$10–30).
Not ideal for national parks or remote regions.

Bold Recommendation: Rent a 4×4 vehicle for flexibility and access to Namibia’s remote natural wonders.

Handy Tips

Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (NAD), but the South African Rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted at a 1:1 rate.
1 US$ ≈ 18 NAD (rates may vary).

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks. Use ATMs in cities (Windhoek, Swakopmund) for better exchange rates.
Using Cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in cities, but carry cash when visiting remote areas, lodges, or national parks.
Tipping Etiquette:
- Restaurants/Bars: 10%–15% (check if service is included).
- Taxis/Transfers: Round up or 10%.
- Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$3–5 per night for housekeeping.
- Safari Guides: US$10–15 per person per day; US$5–10 for trackers or assistants.

English is the official language, but many locals also speak Afrikaans, Oshiwambo, and other indigenous languages.

Useful phrases:
- “Where is the nearest petrol station?”
- “How much is this?”
- “Can I pay with card?”
Many guides and staff are multilingual—English is widely spoken in tourism sectors.

Pro Tip: Try learning greetings like “Wa uhala po?” (How are you? in Oshiwambo) — locals will appreciate it!

Namibia is generally safe for travelers, especially in rural areas and national parks.
Exercise standard precautions in Windhoek and avoid walking alone at night.

Emergency Contacts:

10111: Police (national emergency number)
203 2276: Ambulance (Windhoek)
Your Embassy: Keep contact details printed or saved offline.

Namibia uses 220V/50Hz power with Type D and M plugs (three round pins).

Bring an adapter if traveling from the US or UK.
Most modern electronics (phones, cameras, laptops) are compatible with voltage.

Tap water is safe to drink in cities (e.g., Windhoek, Swakopmund), but not recommended in rural or remote areas.

Tip: Buy bottled water for road trips and safaris.
Lodges often provide filtered or boiled water in flasks.

Some attractions and businesses close or reduce hours on these dates:

1 Jan: New Year’s Day
21 Mar: Independence Day
1 May: Workers’ Day
4 May: Cassinga Day
25 May: Africa Day
26 Aug: Heroes’ Day
10 Dec: Human Rights Day
25–26 Dec: Christmas and Family Day

Note: National parks and lodges usually remain open.

Shops: 09:00–17:00 (Mon–Fri), 09:00–13:00 (Sat); closed or limited hours on Sundays.
Supermarkets (e.g., Spar, Checkers): Often open until 19:00.
Craft Markets: Weekdays and Saturdays, especially in Windhoek and Swakopmund.

Kapana: Grilled street meat (usually beef) served hot with chili spice and salsa.
Biltong: Dried and spiced meat snack (like beef jerky), a Namibian favorite.
Potjiekos: Slow-cooked stew in a three-legged pot—meat, vegetables, and spices.
Oshifima: Maize porridge typically served with meat or spinach-based sauce.
Eland Steak: Game meat like eland, kudu, or springbok—grilled and lean.
Boerewors: Farmer’s sausage made with beef and pork—braaied (barbecued) to perfection.
Zambezi Bream: Freshwater fish grilled whole, commonly eaten in the north.
Vetkoek: Fried dough bread filled with jam or syrup for a sweet version.
Melktert: Traditional milk tart with a cinnamon-dusted custard filling.
Omajowa Mushroom Dishes: Seasonal wild mushrooms used in creamy stews or served with bread.

Alcoholic:

Namibian Wine (Erongo Region): Try local boutique wines made in arid conditions—light and earthy.
Camelthorn Weiss: Craft beer brewed in Windhoek—smooth, wheat-based with citrus notes.
Windhoek Lager: Namibia’s pride—pure German-style lager brewed under Reinheitsgebot laws.
Tafel Lager: Crisp and slightly more robust than Windhoek Lager—another local favorite.
Oshikundu: Traditional fermented millet drink with low alcohol—earthy and sour.
King Lager: Popular across the north, slightly stronger with a maltier taste.

Non-Alcoholic:

Rooibos Iced Tea: Naturally caffeine-free, brewed from indigenous red bush leaves.
Omaere: Sour milk/yogurt-like drink made from fermented cow or goat milk.
Baobab Juice: Creamy, tangy drink made from baobab pulp—high in vitamin C.
Marula Juice: Sweet and tropical, made from wild-harvested marula fruit.
Namibian Coffee: Often brewed strong and black—look for local roasts in Windhoek cafés.

Christuskirche: Windhoek’s iconic German Lutheran church from 1907.
Independence Memorial Museum: Postcolonial history and striking North Korean architecture.
Katutura Township: Vibrant suburb with local markets and historic resistance roots.
Damara Living Museum: Interactive museum showcasing Damara traditions and daily life.
Himba Villages (Kaokoland): Experience the semi-nomadic Himba culture—red ochre skin and intricate hairstyles.
Swakopmund Architecture: German colonial buildings in a coastal town full of character.
Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings: UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 2,000 petroglyphs.
National Art Gallery (Windhoek): Showcases modern Namibian and regional art.
Etosha Pan Legends: Hear San myths about this vast salt pan and its formation.
Caprivi Cultural Centers: Learn about the Lozi and Mbukushu traditions in the lush northeast.

Desert Safari (Sossusvlei): Sunrise over red dunes and Deadvlei’s ghost trees—unmissable.
Stargazing in the Kalahari: Some of the world’s clearest night skies—ideal for astrophotography.
Sandboarding (Swakopmund): Surf the dunes—no snow required!
Walvis Bay Lagoon: Flamingos, pelicans, and kayaking with seals.
Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Tours: Remote, eerie, and incredibly photogenic.
Etosha Game Drives: Self-drive or guided—spot lions, elephants, and rhinos.
Hot Springs (Ai-Ais): Relax in thermal pools near Fish River Canyon.
Craft Markets (Okahandja): Wood carvings, baskets, and handmade jewelry.
Quad Biking: High-speed dune rides for adrenaline junkies.
Living Desert Tours: Learn about the “Little Five” in the Namib—geckos, snakes, chameleons, and more.

Joe’s Beerhouse (Windhoek): Rustic, quirky, and legendary—great for game meat and beer.
The Wolfshack: Trendy cocktail bar in Windhoek with excellent gin infusions.
Bojo’s Craft Brewery: Windhoek’s answer to the craft beer trend.
Swakopmund Brauhaus: German beer hall with schnitzels and locally brewed lager.
The Stellenbosch Wine Bar: Upscale dining and regional wines.
Café Balalaika (Walvis Bay): Local hangout with sea views and live music.
Sundowner Spot (Hotel Heinitzburg): Elegant terrace for cocktails at golden hour.
The Brewer & Butcher: Gastropub near Swakopmund beach—great beer flights.
Ocean Cellar (Strand Hotel): Wine and oysters with Atlantic views.
Gathemann (Windhoek): Cozy restaurant-bar with historic flair and cocktails made from indigenous herbs.