A GUIDE TO DRIVING IN NAMIBIA: HELPFUL NAMIBIA ROAD TRIP TIPS

Driving in Namibia is a joy and easier than you may imagine. But the prospect for first-time visitors can feel daunting and scary. Knowing how to self drive Namibia is the key to exploring this alluring country. Here’s our tips to help you have the best possible Namibia road trip experience.


Namibia is a fantastic country for a road trip.

A top-tier wilderness, with stunning landscapes, endless horizons, quiet open roads and prolific wildlife. Namibia is best explored under your own steam, with your own vehicle.

Our Namibian Road trip transported us along windswept coastlines, through game-rich Etosha National Park, past Sossusvlei’s burnt-orange sand dunes and to some of the best places to visit in Namibia.

If this is how you love to travel; off the beaten track and following your own road trip itinerary, then self-driving in Namibia is for you.

Forward planning and upfront knowledge on what to expect will remove any fear factor.

Here are our comprehensive tips for driving in Namibia. Be prepared for an amazing and unforgettable Namibia road trip!


Pin to your Namibia board!

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA : EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW


TIP 1: RENT A 4X4 VEHICLE

4 wheel drive vehicle in Namibia
 

Whilst budget normally dictates the type of vehicle you hire, Namibia is a country to contradict this reasoning.

Can you self drive on Namibia roads in a regular car? Yes you mostly can, but expect your journey to be uncomfortable and slow. However this is not advisable for several reasons.

  • While major highways linking larger towns such as Windhoek to Swakopmund are tarred, the majority of roads linking popular tourist attractions are gravel. (Including the roads inside Etosha National Park)
  • For comfort and safety you really want a vehicle with high clearance and sturdy tyres, for better grip on the dusty gravel roads.
  • A sturdy 4×4 vehicle will be invaluable for visiting Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Twyfelfontein and Fish Canyon River.

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Renting a 4×4 camper van would be a cheaper option. Pick-up and drop-off your rental at Windhoek International Airport.

 

TIP 2: BUY COMPREHENSIVE VEHICLE INSURANCE

 

We advise you to take out FULL INSURANCE including premium collision damage waiver and premium theft loss waiver with zero excess.

You will encounter different driving conditions including gravel roads, which present their own set of problems.

Minor hazards such as chipped or cracked windscreens and punctured tyres are common place.
Have peace of mind with full insurance cover, and you will enjoy your trip much more.

SELF DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Read the small print of any car hire agreement, so you are aware of any exclusions.

 

TIP 3: DON’T UNDERESTIMATE DISTANCES BETWEEN PLACES

 

Distances should not be underestimated. We found Google Maps to be a great indicator of estimating driving times. However factor in the road quality and your driving speed, and these distances can be slightly out of kilter.

  • Allow for speed limits and gravel road surfaces which will both slow your progress.
  • Try and ensure that you have adequate time to reach your destination by mid-afternoon to avoid rushing.
  • Start journeys early morning so you have plenty of time to reach your destination before dusk.

Journeys can become tedious and tiring and even though you may not see another vehicle for an hour or more, it is important to remain alert, take regular breaks and not increase your speed.

Allow for speed limits and gravel road surfaces which will both slow your progress. Try and ensure that you have adequate time to reach your destination by mid-afternoon to avoid rushing.

Namibia-driving-distances

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Have all your favourite tunes downloaded or travel games at hand to keep you entertained while you enjoy the amazing scenery.

 

TIP 4: DO NOT SPEED ON NAMIBIA ROADS

 

While it may be tempting when you are the only vehicle on the road, to increase your speed, this is both unsafe and illegal.

Gravel roads come with their own set of potential hazards.

Major Highways (“B”) are tarred and in good condition, with a speed limit of 120 km/hour, for example the road from Windhoek to Fish River Canyon.

Secondary roads (“C”or”D”) are mainly untarred, gravel or dirt roads, with a speed limit of 80 km per hour, although 60 km/hour is considered a safer speed.

There are hefty fines in force for speeding, with wide-spread law enforcement in operation.

SELF DRIVING NAMIBIA TIP | Take time to understand road conditions, know the speed limits, and always have safety in mind when you drive. Tarred roads: 120 km/h | Gravel roads | 80 km/h | Urban areas | 50-60 km/h

 

TIP 5: FILL UP WITH FUEL OFTEN

 

Although you will find numerous Namibia petrol stations on the main highways (“B” roads), once you hit the secondary “C” and “D” roads, these become quite scarce.

Don’t rely on road maps for indications of where petrol stations are located, as often these maps are not updated regularly.

Distances between towns can be several hundred kilometers, so when you see a petrol station, always take the opportunity to fill up.

SELF DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Most Namibia petrol stations have attendants who fill your vehicle and also offer to clean your windscreen. A N$5 tip is customary for this service.

 

TIP 6: KNOW HOW TO CHANGE A TYRE

 

Gravel and sandy roads take a huge toll on vehicle tyres. It is commonplace to experience one if not more punctures during your road trip.

Always carry 1 or 2 spare tyres and a jack, which can be ordered from the car rental company, and ensure you know how to change a tyre.

When we picked up our car rental in Windhoek, we sat and watched a video for 20 minutes. This showed all the roads in Namibia we would encounter. This was followed by us being shown how to change a tyre on our vehicle.

Although we did not experience a puncture during our drive safari, we felt confident we would be able to in the circumstance.

NAMIBIA TIP | Be sure to stop at a garage or petrol station to have your punctured tyre repaired, so it becomes a viable spare again.

 

TIP 7: DON’T SELF DRIVE NAMIBIA AT NIGHT

 

It goes without saying, that you should not be driving at night in Namibia, unless you absolutely have to.

Animals are most active at night, will sleep by the roadside and on the quieter roads, which will have absorbed the heat of the day. Kudu in particular can appear from nowhere.

Roads with potholes and no lighting also make for hazardous driving conditions.

NAMIBIA DRIVING TIP | Set out early morning and drive during daylight hours only. Aim to reach your destination before dusk.

 

TIP 8: WATCH OUT FOR STONES

 

Stones can be found on the track edges, which can cause damage to the tyres plus smaller stones in the tracks themselves, can be thrown up and hit the windscreen. Hence the importance of driving at 60 km/hour.

Gravel roads are less forgiving as they offer little in the way of traction, so it is important to stay within the tracks to avoid the sharp stones that can damage your tyres.

Road surfaces vary considerably and you may hit a patch of soft sand which can result in the vehicle sliding slightly.

Again, if you are driving at a safe speed you will be able to handle this with ease and become able to deal with issues as they arise.

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Slow down and get as far left as possible as you pass other vehicles.

 

TIP 9: KNOW YOUR ROAD SURFACES

Gravel road
 

You will encounter several types of surface driving on each Namibia road. However, most roads are flat, long and have little traffic.

DRIVING ON TARRED ROADS

  • Major Highways (Shown as “B” Roads) are tarred, link to most larger towns, are usually single carriageways and excellent to drive along.
  • Due to the sheer scale of the country and the different animals in Namibia that you can encounter, conditions are very different from back home.
  • Roadside fencing is none existent and you will often see wild and domestic animals crossing the road as they travel across the country. 
 

DRIVING ON GRAVEL ROADS

  • Most gravel roads are in good condition and a means of reaching most of the attractions in Namibia.
  • They are made by compacting stones onto the road surface, which does not last, and there are slight tracks/ruts forming where other vehicles have driven.

NAMIBIA DRIVING TIP | It is important to reduce the Tyre pressure by 20% when driving on gravel roads.

 

TIP 10: WATCH PASSING VEHICLES AND DUST

self-drive-on-namibia-roads-dust-cloud
 

It is a legal requirement to have your headlights on at all times.

Sometimes locals who are used to the roads and the driving conditions, will overtake you at a higher speed.

Slow down and move over to the left to minimise damage by the vehicle’s dust cloud and by any small stones which could hit your windscreen.

If you stay in the overtaking vehicle’s tracks and the dust cloud is thick, you will not be able to see anything until the dust disperses.

Dust is a constant companion and if you travel in a vehicle’s dust cloud, you will not be able to see where you are going.

Be vigilant approaching corners, as these may become obscured from view. Drive with your headlights on at all times.

NAMIBIA SELF DRIVE TIP | You will generally find locals very friendly and when you pass another driver, a quick flash of your lights will act as a courteous thank you. Maybe consider an automatic vehicle if it would make driving easier.

 

TIP 11: ANIMALS CAN BE POTENTIAL HAZARDS

self-drive-on-namibia-roads-animals
 

You will certainly see both domestic and wild animals on your trip, as Namibia is a large farming country, so always be on the lookout for animals crossing the road.

Remember to slow down and not swerve to avoid them as the vehicle may rollover.

Animals to watch out for include Kudu, Warthog, Guinea Fowl, Baboons, Cows, Goats, Sheep, Horses, Donkeys and Dogs.

Colliding with even a small animal, will result in the death of the animal and cause severe damage to your vehicle. Remember to avoid driving in Namibia at night.

NAMIBIA TRAVEL TIP | Keep your eyes peeled for animals off to the side of the road and reduce your speed in preparation of them crossing in front of you.

 

TIP 12: DON’T JUST STAY ON THE MAIN HIGHWAYS

self-drive-on-namibia-roads-etosha-pan
 

Namibia is a beautiful country and driving is a wonderful way to explore it’s vast remoteness. Namibia road signs are clear and easy to read.

Some of its best sights are located in these off the beaten track places and reached via “C” or “D” roads.

Do not be put off by these gravel/dirt roads, as they lead to incredible sights. For example, C19 and D826 roads from Solitaire to Sossusvlei via Sesriem.

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | Don’t under estimate travelling times when you drive Namibia roads like these. Factor some extra time in so you don’t rush and arrive at your stop before dusk. You will not be disappointed!

 

TIP 13: CHECK NAMIBIA TRAVEL DISTANCES

 

While you can hire a GPS, we don’t think this is necessary. Download Google Maps before you set off, for the area you are heading to, as mobile internet access can be patchy in less populated areas.

Without either of these aids you can always trust a sturdy Namibia road map. Plus you can mark out your entire itinerary using markers.

As a side note, you may need to purchase permits in advance, for some remote minor roads. Obtain these from The NWR office in Sesriem, or tourism offices at Windhoek, Walvis Bay or Swakopmund.

 

TIP 14: THERE WILL BE SAND EVERYWHERE

 

With desert terrain comes sand, a lot of sand, which while mesmerizing to see, will get literally everywhere. It leaves a dusting inside your vehicle and over your luggage.

DRIVING IN SAND

  • The number one rule for driving in sand, is to keep going! Do not lose momentum or the tyres will sink and the vehicle will come to a stop.
  • If there are existing tracks in the sand, just stay here and let your vehicle do the steering, while maintaining steady momentum.
  • When we visited Sossusvlei, we decided to take a tour as we would have been driving at 4.30am in the dark, on a surface that we had no experience with. As we were leaving the area, we counted five 4×4 vehicles that were stuck in the sand, all within 20 metres of the parking lot, and all waiting for assistance to become free.

If you are planning on climbing Big Daddy Sand Dune for sunrise, I would recommend going on a tour if you are unfamiliar with driving a 4×4 vehicle in sand as you do not want to miss that incredible sight.

TOP TIP | Ensure you cover camera equipment with a sealed bag and keep any food in sealed containers.

 

TIP 15: TAKE CARE CROSSING RIVERS

 

If your visit coincides with the rainy season, then extra care must be taken.

Flash flooding is common and the best advice is to sit back, enjoy the scenery and wait until the flow is diminished or stopped.

 

TIP 16: PREPARE FOR ALL EVENTUALITIES

 

During your self drive in Namibia, you will be driving on gravel roads in remote areas, so for peace of mind, follow these guidelines.

  • Carry a minimum of 5 litres of water and plenty of snacks as shops will be few and far apart in the desert.
  • Always wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the harsh sunlight.
  • Dress in layers and carry a jumper or warm jacket for cool night temperatures.
  • Child seats can also be ordered ahead of time and these will ensure your child enjoys the best visibility, although not required by law.
  • Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar and South African Rand which are valued same for same. Note though that you cannot use the Namibian dollar in South Africa.
  • Always have enough cash on your person each day to cover costs, as smaller campsites or cafes sometimes have no credit card facilities, plus this is more evident in more remote areas.

SELF DRIVING IN NAMIBIA TIP | For flexibility consider travelling with a cool box which can either be purchased or hired.

 

TIP 17: EXERCISE STANDARD SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

 

Crime in Namibia is low, but as in any part of the world, always lock your vehicle and leave windows up. Do not leave valuables on show in an unattended vehicle. All basic safety precautions you would adhere to at home.

Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa, and your main problem will be avoiding a punctured tyre!


TIP 18: WHICH TYPE OF VEHICLE TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR NAMIBIA TRIP?

 

When planning your Namibia Itinerary, it is perfectly fine to hire a 2WD, as this will definitely be cheaper. You will still be able to include a Namibia self drive safari with this type of vehicle.

We usually use DiscoverCars when hiring vehicles for our road trips. They compare prices from all the major car rental companies, which enables you to make an easy comparison and get the best value deal.

 

CHECK PRICESDISCOVERCARS.COM

 

Here is a list of all the vehicle choices you can consider for driving Namibia.

 

OPTION 1: 2WD ECONOMY CAR

Whilst this vehicle is perfectly adequate, you will notice every bump and make slower progress. This is the cheapest option.

 

OPTION 2: HIGH CLEARANCE 2WD

You will still struggle with the gravel roads and have to drive pretty slowly. Venturing off these roads could result in getting stuck in sand. The vehicle would be similar to a “Duster”, but you’ll probably wish you had upgraded.

 

OPTION 3: 4X4 VEHICLE

A 4X4 rental in Namibia is heavier on fuel and more expensive. However, your travel time will be quicker and you will certainly have a more comfortable ride. Plus you will get a better view on safari as your seat is higher. You can access regions such as Sesriem if you are comfortable driving on sand.

 

OPTION 4: 4X4 WITH ROOF CANOPY

This is a popular option if you prefer camping and sleeping above your vehicle. Although an economical option to save on accommodation in Namibia, it has its downsides. The weather is usually humid and you have to pack and unpack your sleeping arrangements constantly.


DRIVING IN NAMIBIA INFORMATION

 

ARE NAMIBIA ROADS SAFE?

 

Many people wonder is it safe to drive in Namibia? There are plenty of arresting attractions in Namibia and striking areas to drive through. However statistically, 1 in 10 tourists will have an accident during their holiday.

Why does this happen? The fact that 87% of Namibian roads are gravel is not the reason.

The main culprit is tourists themselves. And the majority of accidents are “single vehicle” with no animal, object or other vehicle being involved.

Tourists assume that the roads are similar to those “back home”, that they are used to driving on ice/snow and that they are competent and careful drivers.

Namibian roads are unlike other roads that you will have experienced before. They are slow and at times tedious and distances are long and drawn out between places.

If you decide to drive on gravel roads, faster than the recommended 60 km/hr and have to break suddenly, you may slide. You will then try and over correct your steering and lose control of the vehicle, which can then overturn.

This is not the place to be adventurous, take unnecessary risks, drive when tired or become complacent.

  • Remember – EXCESS SPEED IS THE MAIN CAUSE OF ACCIDENTS!
  • Namibia driving side is on the left, and all occupants must wear seat belts by law.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO HIRE A VEHICLE?

 

If your drivers license is NOT in English, you are required to have an International drivers license. You must be over the age of 23 years and have held your license for at least 12 months.


WHERE SHOULD YOU PICK UP YOUR RENTAL VEHICLE?

 

It is cheaper to pick up/drop off a vehicle from Windhoek International Airport. There are also car rental outlets in areas such as Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Luderitz.

You will need to provide your passport, driver’s license and have a credit card. The car hire company will hold an excess on this card, so that in the event of any damages to the vehicle, they can be charged to this card.

Beware of any one way fees incurred for dropping off your vehicle in a different location as these can be quite hefty. Be sure to use a reputable Namibia car rental company.

Crossing into Namibia from a neighbouring country will require you presenting various documents plus comes with a hefty fee.

Always carry all documentation with you when you are driving, as these will need to be shown if you are stopped or have an accident.

TIP | When you pick up your vehicle, make sure you know whether it uses unleaded petrol or diesel. Yes really!

 

OUR EXPERIENCE OF A NAMIBIA SELF DRIVE TRIP

Namibia Road Trip 4x4 Vehicle
Our Rental Vehicle
 

So you’re convinced to fly and drive Namibia, but just how easy is self-driving Namibia? It is easy when you follow our tips, and here is our own personal experience, to allay any fears you may have.

 

We hired a 4×4 in Namibia from AVIS through a Travel Company based in the UK, with Full Insurance cover.

We collected our vehicle on arrival at Windhoek International Airport and were given full instructions on jacking up the vehicle, repairing a puncture and replacing a tyre.

The full tool kit was taken out and its uses explained fully before we went inside the office, and watched a 15 minute video on road conditions and driving tips.

I have to say, we have never had such an in depth handover before when collecting a hire vehicle.

All questions were answered and maps given out and the staff even asked which roads we were thinking of using so they could ensure we were fully prepared for any issues we may face.

We found driving on the gravel roads no problem and did not encounter any problems either with the vehicle or the road conditions. Petrol stations were easy to locate and using Google Maps was more than adequate for navigation.

Distances are long between places and I wouldn’t suggest driving more than 400 kms a day as you do become tired. Plan your road trip itinerary accordingly.


OTHER HELPFUL NAMIBIA TRAVEL TIPS

 

Driving yourself around Namibia is a great experience. Driving on the roads is easy, navigation is easy and ANYONE can drive around Independently, with no need to be concerned about safety or practicalities.

  • Keep to the recommended speed limits and be patient.
  • Fill up with fuel regularly.
  • Be alert and sensible. Take no unnecessary risks.
  • If in doubt, slow down.
  • Drive with your lights on.
  • Plan your journey thoroughly and do not try and cover too many kilometres each day. Try and limit your driving to 5 hours per day and arrive at your destination by early afternoon.
  • Remember EXCESSIVE SPEED IS THE BIGGEST CAUSE OF ACCIDENTS.

DRIVING IN NAMIBIA CONCLUSION


Do you feel more confident to self drive Namibia roads now? It really is so easy to drive around independently. So give it a go, you will enjoy yourself tremendously.

Namibia is an incredible and beautiful country and an ideal place for an Independent Namibia road trip.

As always, if you have any questions pleas leave in the comments below.


MORE POSTS ON NAMIBIA

We have several interesting articles for you to read and help with your planning:

And click here to find guides to other destinations.

Be sure to check out our instructive destination guide for Namibia which provides all the general travel information you need for this alluring country.


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2 thoughts on “A GUIDE TO DRIVING IN NAMIBIA: HELPFUL NAMIBIA ROAD TRIP TIPS”

  1. Thanks for sharing this. Your tips are realistic and helpful. I am a travel freak and travel a lott, can relate to it.Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow mindedness., and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Next year I will definitely want to explore Namibia.
    People often have a theme that they base their worldly travels on, but how about a mental mantra for your travel? Out of a cheerleading event that consisted of our family shouting supportive words at our daughter who was attempting to kill a rather monstrous spider that the rest of us were too chicken to get close to, came this great quote, “If you don’t think, and you just do….then it’s done!”

    This quote came back to haunt me when on vacation in Seattle. I thought it would be a great idea to take the kids on the Seattle Great Wheel, the ferris wheel overlooking the ocean, but as we approached it, I realized how high it went and immediately panicked! Just as I had decided to put the kids on it on their own, my daughter says, “Come on dad…If you don’t think, and you just do….then it’s done!” What could I do at that point?! She was telling me to stop thinking and creating more fear about the situation and just get on the thing!
    “If you don’t think, and you just do, then it’s done!” We all now keep this quote in our back pocket, ready to whip out at any time to push one of us forward into an adventure we know they won’t regret. No hesitations, don’t allow any time for fear to set in, and be prepared for your kids to turn your life advice back on you!

    Reply
    • Hi Biplab,
      Many thanks for your comments. It sounds as though you are installing a great sense of adventure in your family! I highly recommend a trip to Namibia. It really is unique and has beautiful landscapes, friendly people, is extremely safe and wonderful for you to explore yourself. I am preparing some more posts on Namibia so check back and see if they can be of help to you when you prepare your own holiday. Cheers, Angela

      Reply

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