NAMIBIA

Namibia, a vast and sparsely populated nation in Southern Africa, boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking desert landscapes, including the ancient Namib Desert. From towering red dunes and rugged coastlines to abundant wildlife in Etosha, it’s a land of striking contrasts and unique natural beauty.

Region: Southern Africa

Capital: Windhoek

Official Language: English

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high crime levels, including petty crime like pickpocketing and car break-ins, and instances of violent crime such as muggings. Always be vigilant, especially in urban areas and at night.

A map of Africa with Namibia highlighted in green.

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.

A vast desert landscape with red sand dunes meeting the turquoise ocean.

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.

A seal sits on a rock by the water, looking out towards the sea.

Essential Trip Information

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.

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.

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…?)

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)

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.

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.

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 Namibia

A mesmerizing landscape of towering, rust-red sand dunes, some of the highest in the world, contrasted with the bleached white clay pan and skeletal trees of Deadvlei. It is located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park in the central Namib Desert.

One of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, centered around a vast salt pan, where abundant wildlife, including the Big Four, congregates around waterholes, offering superb game viewing. It is situated in northern Namibia.

A desolate yet hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, famous for its shipwrecks, vast seal colonies, and unique desert-adapted wildlife. It runs along Namibia’s entire northern Atlantic coast.

The second-largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking panoramic views, challenging hiking trails, and a rugged, awe-inspiring landscape. It is located in southern Namibia.

A rugged and scenic region known for its ancient rock art sites (Twyfelfontein), unique desert-adapted elephants and rhinos, and dramatic geological formations like Spitzkoppe. It is situated in northwestern Namibia.

A charming coastal town with a distinct German colonial architectural style, offering adventure activities like quad biking, sandboarding, skydiving, and scenic flights over the desert and coast. It is located on Namibia’s central Atlantic coast.

One of the largest conservation areas in Africa, encompassing iconic Sossusvlei, the ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis plants, and diverse desert landscapes. It covers a vast area of western Namibia.

The clean and well-organized capital city of Namibia, blending German colonial history with modern African vibrancy, offering historical sites, markets, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is centrally located in Namibia.

A narrow panhandle in northeastern Namibia, characterized by lush wetlands, rivers (Okavango, Zambezi, Kwando), and abundant birdlife, offering a different safari experience with boat trips and cultural visits. It extends eastward from the main body of Namibia.

Namibia’s highest mountain, famous for its ancient San rock art, including the renowned “White Lady” painting, set within a rugged and spiritual landscape. It is located in Damaraland in western Namibia.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush, Green Landscapes (beautiful for photography)
  • Excellent for Birdwatching (migratory birds arrive)
  • Calving Season (chance to see newborn animals)

Main Drawbacks:

  • High Temperatures (can exceed 104ºF/40ºC in the desert, often 86-95ºF/30-35ºC in central areas)
  • Afternoon Thunderstorms (can impact road conditions, especially in remote areas)
  • Wildlife Disperses (animals find water everywhere, making them harder to spot)
  • Higher Humidity
  • More Insects (including mosquitoes)

Key Regions:

  • Caprivi Strip (Zambezi Region): Excellent for birdwatching with abundant water and lush vegetation.
  • Swakopmund/Walvis Bay: Coastal areas offer a cooler escape from inland heat, around 68-77ºF/20-25ºC.
  • Central Namibia: Witness the landscape turn green, with dramatic skies after scattered showers.

Key Advantages:

  • Reasonable Prices
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Comfortable Temperatures (typically 68-81ºF/20-27ºC, with cooler nights)
  • Great Photography (still green from rains in April/May, dramatic skies in November)
  • Wildlife starts to gather around permanent water sources (May, November)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Some areas might still have thick vegetation (April), making game spotting a bit harder
  • Occasional lingering showers or the start of the rainy season (November)
  • Temperatures can still be quite warm in November (above 86ºF/30ºC in desert areas)

Key Regions:

  • Etosha National Park: Wildlife starts to congregate around waterholes as the dry season approaches (May), or after the first rains (November).
  • Sossusvlei: Pleasant temperatures for climbing dunes, with dramatic light for photography.
  • Damaraland: Good for spotting desert-adapted wildlife without the peak season crowds.
  • Fish River Canyon: Excellent hiking weather before the intense heat or cold sets in.

Dry Season (June – October):

  • Key Advantage: Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather at waterholes; clear skies for stargazing.
  • Main Drawback: Highest prices, busiest national parks, cold nights in desert areas (can drop below freezing/0ºC in July/August).
  • Average Daytime Temperatures: 68-77ºF/20-25ºC.

Late July – August: Busiest period within the peak season.

Planning Your Trip

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.