VISITING NAMIBIA: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR A SUCCESSFUL TRIP

stunning landscapes to see when visiting Namibia
 

Visiting Namibia is one of the greatest adventures you can have. The country boasts the world’s second largest canyon, a stark skeleton coast, desert scenery with enormous sand dunes, and one of Africa’s best game reserves.

But where do you begin, when planning your Namibia visit? We have all the information and travel tips you need to plan your trip to Namibia with confidence.


Namibia tourism is on the rise. This little-known country in South Africa, is a slowly evolving wilderness. Forget idyllic beaches, tall skyscrapers and 5-star hotels because Namibia is in a league of its own.

Driving in Namibia is easy, and there’s no better way of exploring than on a Namibia road trip.

Namibia is a land of never-ending horizons and wide-open spaces. Your Namibia trip will reward you with landscapes, packed with natural attractions such as Fish River Canyon and barren Skeleton Coast. Rippling sand dunes of Sossusvlei, and incredible game viewing in Etosha National Park.

But is Namibia safe? Our guide answers this question and more, detailing all the essential things to know before you plan your travel to Namibia.


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NAMIBIA TRAVEL TIPS

 

1 – WHERE IS NAMIBIA AND IS NAMIBIA SAFE FOR TOURISTS?

 

The Republic of Namibia is in Southern Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. It shares land borders with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Angola. It is also one of the safest and tourist-friendly countries in Africa. The city of Windhoek, while being Namibia’s largest city, is also its capital and is in the central part of the country.

Applying basic safety measures as you would anywhere you travel; will ensure you have a good trip. Lock your vehicle when unattended and do not leave valuables or bags visible.


2 – VISITING NAMIBIA IS PERFECT FOR A FIRST TRIP TO AFRICA

 

Why visit Namibia when you can choose other African nations? Travelling Namibia independently, is safe, trouble-free, and a great introduction to exploring this continent.

You will have no trouble getting along with local people as English is an official language, alongside other dialects of German and Afrikaans. People are warm, friendly, and helpful, so there is no barrier if you need help with directions.

Namibia is an underrated travel destination, which is family-friendly, and totally worth visiting. This relatively unknown and unheard-of country, is quiet and still not on the main tourist route, which means you can explore in peace.

Most visitors to Africa come in search of the wildlife and game drives, and head to neighbouring countries. But Etosha was set up as a self drive national park, where you can spot the Big 5, and often be the only car sitting at a waterhole.


3 – NAMIBIA HAS AN INTERESTING HISTORY

the colonial town of Windhoek in Namibia
Visiting Namibia: Windhoek
 

The San Bushmen were living and enjoying a nomadic lifestyle prior to the arrival of Europeans in the 19th century.

Arriving at the shores of Walvis Bay in the 1880’s, it was German colonists that claimed the “southwest” area of Africa for Germany.

Even today, evidence of this occupation can be seen in German architecture, settlements, people’s names, and street names. German is an official language, spoken by much of the population, along with Afrikaan.

Between 1904-1907, local Herero and Namaqua tribes rebelled against the German colonists, which saw government officials ordering the extinction of natives.
Devastatingly, 80% of Herero and half the Namaqua population, were wiped out in this genocide. The country experienced apartheid in the 1940’s, before its independence in 1990.


4 – NAMIBIA IS A PERFECT SELF DRIVE DESTINATION

wide open road in Namibia with no cars or other people around
Wide open roads and endless horizons in Namibia
 

The best way to traverse and travel Namibia is driving along its gravel roads, in your own vehicle. It’s a road trip like no other. Car rental companies are based at the airport, so you can collect your vehicle and set off straight away.

With an extensive road network and efficient infrastructure, this is your best choice of transport, outside of a Namibia tour. While the country is beautiful, it does have some interesting roads to navigate. We have a complete guide to driving in Namibia, as it’s important to feel confident when driving.

You’ll be driving long distances on mostly empty, gravel and unsealed roads, but the country is easy to navigate, with good signage.

Namibia is a beautiful country. it’s vast open plains showcasing mountains, sand dunes, canyons, stark landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife.

You will be driving alongside elephants, giraffes, zebras and more, on your own Namibia self drive safari. Climbing undulating sand dunes such as Big Daddy, in Sossusvlei, and seeing some of the best places to visit in Namibia.

A self driving tour of Namibia is fun, enjoyable, and perfectly doable. Simply fill up with fuel whenever you have the chance. Always carry plenty of water and snacks in the car, and don’t drive at night.

We had an unforgettable adventure in Namibia, driving all over the country, and would highly recommend driving.


5 – NAMIBIA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS ARE INCREDIBLE

people climbing up a huge sand dune
 

When you visit Namibia for the first time, there are so many attractions to see. Two of the most popular attractions in Namibia are Etosha National Park for epic game viewing, and Sossusvlei in Namib-Naukluft National Park, for the apricot-coloured sand dunes.

All Namibia attractions can be explored easily on a road trip itinerary.

 

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

animals in the distant shrub
 

Given pride of place in any Namibia travel guide, is stunning Etosha National Park. One of the oldest and greatest game parks in Africa, it is a photographer’s dream. The park is dominated by an expansive saltpan and scenic waterholes which see abundant game.

You can view plenty of animals in Namibia, including Elephant, black and white rhino, black-faced impala, lion, giraffe, leopard, eland, Burchell’s zebra, springbok, blue wildebeest, gemsbok, Damara dik-dik.

We experienced the best safari in Namibia and would return in a heartbeat.


SOSSUSVLEI & THE NAMIB DESERT

 

If you have seen pictures of Namibia, they are usually of the vast red sand dunes, with the early light illuminating their ridges or the starkly haunting ancient trees of Dead Vlei. This desert scenery is an absolute must to explore.


SKELETON COAST

 

View the famous shipwrecks along the barren windswept coastline or interact with the nomadic Himba Tribe who live in the area.


DAMARALAND

 

A vast area of geological formations including those of Brandberg, Spitzkoppe and Vingerklip. A ruggedly beautiful region where you will feel completely at one with nature.
Together with the ancient rock art of Twyfelfontein, there is a wealth of climbing activities for those with a sense of adventure.


FISH RIVER CANYON

 

Allegedly the second largest Canyon in the world and 550m at its deepest, it’s deep ravines and spectacular landscape forms a series of magnificent cliffs.
Due to the distance from other sights, the Canyon is one of the least visited attractions.


SWAKOPMUND & WALVIS BAY

lighthouse with evergreen trees in front
There are plenty of sights to see in Swakopmund
 

Swakopmund is Namibia’s main holiday resort, with locals arriving in droves over Bank Holidays and especially December, to escape the intense heat.

Offering a multitude of adventure packed activities to visitors, alongside more leisurely sightseeing and dining, this small German village is an attractive and worthy stopover.

Nearby Walvis Bay Lagoon has its own offerings of Kayaking with seals and viewing flamingos, pelicans, and varied bird life, and is an area on the up, so one to watch out for.



6 – TAP WATER IS DRINKABLE, BUT WATER IS SCARCE

 

You may feel that the water has a slightly different taste to what you are used to, but water in Namibia is safe to drink.
If you prefer bottled water, consider instead, using a filtration system and cut down on having to recycle numerous plastic bottles.

Water is, however, a scarce commodity here, and you should be mindful of how you use this resource. Make sure not to leave taps running when brushing your teeth, or washing your hands, and consider having a shower instead of a bath.


7 – YOU NEED TO KNOW THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NAMIBIA

 

For a successful Namibia travel experience, be sure to choose the right month to plan your visit.

Whilst there are no “good” or “bad” times to visit Namibia, what you want to see will have a bearing on the best time to go to Namibia.

Etosha National Park is a priority for most visitors and timing your visit during the “dry season”, between July and late October, will ensure the optimal viewing of animals in the Park.

With water so scarce, animals are forced towards the numerous waterholes making viewing much easier.

This is also the main season for overseas visitors, but also bear in mind Namibian school holidays which are generally Mid-August to early September. Prices however will be higher, and accommodation must be booked in advance.

Namibia has a dry and wet season. Visiting during the wet season from mid-November to April, there is a good chance of rain, and the temperatures will be cooler.

There will be fewer visitors, accommodation costs lower, but elephants will have travelled north and won’t be seen. Rain will invigorate the sun burnt grasses which turn green, and animals give birth to their young.


8 – THERE ARE TWO OFFICIAL CURRENCIES

 

Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (N$) divided into 100 cents which is linked with the South African Rand, on a one-to-one exchange basis.

The Rand is legal tender in Namibia and widely used, but the Namibian Dollar CANNOT be used in South Africa. Additionally, Namibian Dollars can only be purchased within Namibia, so it makes sense to bring South African Rand with you instead.

Credit Cards are widely accepted in urban areas, although for petrol and outlets in rural areas, you will need to pay cash. Bear in mind that smaller campsites and fuel stations, may not have credit card facilities.

Banks in Namibia are open from 9am to 3.30pm on weekdays and from 9am to 11am on Saturdays. Bear in mind though, that you may be miles from a town and hence a bank.


9 – VISITING NAMIBIA NEEDS PLANNING AND RESEARCH

granite peaks at Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe
 

Namibia will probably be very different to your normal self-drive trips. Distances are vast, attractions spread out and 80% of roads gravel, at a maximum speed of 80km/hour.
So you will be travelling slower and must add in contingency time for doing so.

Accommodation must be booked well in advance. In the more remote areas, accommodation can be limited.

We cannot stress this point enough, as many bookings for the popular areas of Etosha and Sossusvlei are confirmed as much as 12 months in advance.

Many of these are block bookings by travel agents, so if there are accommodations that you wish to stay at, you must plan ahead.

With the capital Windhoek being most visitors’ arrival and departure point, it obviously makes sense to travel clockwise or anti-clockwise on your journey. (North or South bound)

I would recommend that if you are visiting Etosha, you make this destination towards the tail end of your route. That is, leave the best to last!!

Namibia is a dream for the self-driver as this is the best way to see the country, and even Etosha National Park was designed for visitors to drive themselves around.

The roads are well signposted, traffic quiet and you have the freedom to stop whenever you wish to take photos.

Visitors have the option of staying in lodges, b&b’s, rest camps or camping, depending on your style of accommodation.


10 – HOW DO YOU PREPARE AN IDEAL ITINERARY?

 

When you are planning your Namibia itinerary, the following factors should be considered, namely:

1 – Plan to drive for no more than 4-5 hours, so you always arrive at your destination in daylight.

2 – The maximum speed limit on gravel roads is 80km/h and you will often be driving at even slower speeds, due to road conditions.

3 – Map out your “unmissable sights” first and then you will have a better idea of remaining time to spend elsewhere.

4 – Try to cover sights on the way to a destination, so you are not wasting time going back and forth.

5 – Factor in some spare time so you can enjoy unplanned sights.

6 – If you are staying at lodges, be sure to arrive by early afternoon so that you can enjoy organised safari rides and sundowners.


11 – EXPECT TO SEE AN ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE

things-to-know-before-visiting-namibia
One of the many waterholes in Etosha
 

After a sustained conservation effort, visitors to Etosha National Park can experience a memorable safari with sightings of lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and rhinos to name a few.

Some of the best lodges Namibia has to offer, are just outside the park, and come with their own waterholes, to sit and watch wildlife drinking.

However, outside of Etosha yields many opportunities to see an array of wildlife.

Flamingos in Walvis Bay, Mountain Zebra at Fish River Canyon, Springbok around Windhoek, Wild Horses in Aus, a variety of animals simply crossing the road, and animals in Namib desert such as Ostrich.

You will not be disappointed by the diversity of wildlife you will encounter.


12 – NAMIBIA IS NOT A CHEAP COUNTRY TO VISIT

 

Is Namibia expensive? Yes. Backpacking in Namibia is not realistic, and the most practical way of exploring the country, is to hire a vehicle and drive yourself around.

Your budget will determine your style of travel around Namibia, however most budget levels are catered for and when it comes to accommodation Namibia has options from hostels to luxurious lodges.

COSTS TO CONSIDER WHEN TRAVELLING TO NAMIBIA

 

1 – FUEL: You will be covering large distances and will be getting through a lot of fuel. Use Google Maps to work out rough estimates of mileage and check fuel prices here.

2 – NATIONAL PARK FEES: Adults (foreign) is NAD 100-150 per adult per day.

3 – ACCOMMODATION: In cities such as Swakopmund, you can self-cater in an apartment, use Airbnb or stay in a hostel, to keep costs down.

As you head into Sossusvlei, Fish River Canyon and Etosha National Park, your accommodation costs can increase dramatically.

The cheapest option is to camp, which is extremely easy. Costs at prime locations such as Sesriem are currently N$610 per adult/night. Children aged between 6 and 12 years, sharing with an adult, pay 50%, whilst children up to 5 years camp for free.

Some of the best campsites in Namibia, are in Sesriem, with incredible views of the Namib Desert.

We suggest using Booking.com to find the best affordable options for hotel and lodges.

 

13 – WHAT TYPE OF VEHICLE SHOULD YOU HIRE?

 

Whilst the main attractions and sights are accessible in a 2WD, for added comfort we would recommend opting for a 4×4 rental in Namibia, if your budget allows. You will be glad of the additional stability a 4X4 vehicle provides, as driving on gravel roads can be taxing.

You will have a higher clearance for better viewing and a more comfortable ride.
A 4X4 is also required to access more remote areas such as Bushmanland and Kaokoland, and is advisable during the wet season, from November to April.

Be sure to take out full vehicle insurance with unlimited mileage and zero collision damage waiver. And always rent your vehicle online through a major rental company, such as Avis, or Budget, which operate at the international airport.

We suggest using DiscoverCars to find the best vehicle options.

 

14 – DO YOU NEED A VISA?

 

It is very straightforward to enter the country, with most nationalities not even requiring a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

These include nationals from the following countries:

United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, USA, All Western European countries.

** You cannot obtain a Namibia visa on arrival **


15 – THERE IS LIMITED WIFI AND MOBILE NETWORK

 

We suggest buying a local prepaid SIM card on arrival, to use in case of emergencies and to contact lodges and campsites.

Although some hotels haves available wi-fi, connection can be unreliable and slow, so don’t rely on being able to check emails every day.

Instead, use the trip as an excuse to leave emailing etc behind and spend your trip “mindfully”. You will feel more refreshed.


16 – SHOULD YOU STAY IN WINDHOEK?

 

International visitors arrive in Windhoek, pick up their hire vehicle and hit the road straight away, to start exploring Namibia must see attractions.

While the city does have a few worthy places to visit, such as Parliament Gardens and Christ Church, we would recommend that you spend your first and last nights at accommodation on the outskirts of the city.


17 – TRY SOME ADRENALIN ACTIVITIES IN NAMIBIA

 

There are plenty of things to see in Namibia, and major Namibia highlights to tick off your list. However, if you’re looking for some activity adventure, the colonial town of Swakopmund will serve you well.

Activities include sandboarding, power-kiting, quad-biking and remarkably cheap, skydiving.

 

18 – PREPARE TO EMBRACE A SLOW PACE OF LIFE

 

Forget the chaos of urban living, rushing around from place to place, Namibia scenery needs your undivided attention.

Things here, are carried out in “Namibia Time”. You may wait a little longer than normal to be served but enjoy this slower pace of life. Enjoy the sound of silence and gazing at the star filled night sky.


19 – TIPPING IS EXPECTED

 

Giving too much in a tip is considered contentious, as an amount deemed satisfactory to Western visitors can come across as thoughtless and insulting to a local earning a low wage.

Anyone helping you with baggage, including porters and supermarket staff, should be given a couple of dollars.

Restaurants often automatically add a 10% charge to your bill, so unless the service was extremely good, a tip is not required.

At lodges, inquire whether tips go into a separate box to be shared among staff. If you feel service has been exceptional and you want to leave a tip, do so in one lump sum at the end of the stay.

Guides are often not included in tip sharing so again, if a guide has given great service, then tip them individually, maybe at a rate of N$100 per guest per day, or whatever feels fitting.

You will notice in places such as Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, that when you park your vehicle on the street or in a parking lot, a “car guard” wearing a tabard will look after your car until you return. This is NOT a scam, but a way of them earning some money – just like the pay and display meters many countries have.

Giving them around five dollars per hour is satisfactory together with a cheerful nod!


20 – NAMIBIA HAS A GREAT CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION

 
namibia-onguma-the-fort-etosha
Onguma The Fort
 

There are accommodations to suit most budgets from camping to luxury lodges.

Here are a few suggestions which can be booked through Booking.com, the site we go to first and foremost when searching for the best accommodation deals.

Don’t forget to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.

WINDHOEK ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Tenbergen Pension Hotel
Medium : Olive Grove Guest House
Splurge : The Weinberg Windhoek


SWAKOPMUND ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Namibia Nights Accommodation
Medium : Hotel A La Mer
Splurge : Swakopmund Luxury Suites


FISH RIVER CANYON ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Gondwana Canyon Village
Medium : Gondwana Canyon Lodge
Splurge : Fish River Lodge


AUS ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Orange House Self Catering
Medium : Aloe Rock House
Splurge : Bahnhof Hotel


SOSSUSVLEI ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Desert Camp
Medium : Sossusvlei Lodge
Splurge : Little Sossus Lodge


DAMARALAND ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Twyfelfontein Country Lodge
Medium : Camp Kipwe
Splurge : Wilderness Safaris Doro Nawas


ETOSHA ACCOMMODATION

Budget : Etosha Safari Camp
Medium : Onguma Lodge
Slurge : Etosha Oberland Lodge


21 – EXPECT TO ENCOUNTER SAND AND DUST

dusty road in Namibia
 

Namibia is a dry desert country, which consists of a lot of dust and sand.

When driving, the dust will get into every crevice including over your luggage. Pack food and snacks in seal-able bags, cover camera equipment and don’t take brand new suitcases or bags.

Similarly, your shoes will be covered with reddish sand, so don’t wear white trainers.


22 – WHAT SHOULD YOU PACK?

 

Namibia is a very dry and arid country as it receives very little rainfall. During the summer months, temperatures can get hot (high 20’s), and in the winter months (June-Sept), temperatures can get very cold at night (zero to -5 degrees Celsius).

CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

 

Namibia is a reasonably conservative country, but dressing informally is widely accepted. Generally, people do not get dressed up when they go out for dinner, wearing shorts, jeans and t-shirts.

Basically, wear whatever you are comfortable in. Even if you are staying in a luxury lodge, a pair of trousers and a few different tops will suffice.

In Winter, take a long-sleeved jumper, long trousers/jeans and a windproof jacket.
With regards to footwear, closed toe sandals and trainers or walking shoes will be adequate, as the ground will be sand or gravel.

Walking on the sand dunes is comfortable in bare feet when it is cool but watch out when the sand gets hot and wear either socks or shoes/trainers.
Try to pack only the clothes you need and do some laundry if staying in self-catering accommodation.

Sunglasses, sun screening lotion and a hat should be core essentials.


ELECTRICITY ADAPTOR

 

Namibia uses 220-volt electricity, and most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. You can purchase suitable adaptors from Amazon before you arrive or purchase one from the airport at Jo’Burg and Windhoek.

We suggest taking a multiple adaptor as most people have numerous electrical devices which will need charging at the same time.


MAPS & SAT NAVIGATION

 

Unless you are planning to head off into the bush on an expedition, you will not need a detailed map with you. Google Maps can be used to give you an outline of the roads between your destinations, although do not take any timings for the route as gospel, as the timings are usually underestimated in our opinion.

As mobile access and wi-fi can be sketchy at times, download Google Maps offline version before you set off.

Again, there is no real need for a sat nav if you are on a self-drive trip. However, if you do feel the need for one, you will be able to rent one from the car hire companies at Windhoek Airport. (Book in advance)


PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

 

Believe us, you will be taking LOTS of photographs, so ensure you have adequate memory cards, batteries and a charger packed, as outside of the main towns, you will struggle to buy replacements.

A zoom lens (24-70mm and 70-300mm should be sufficient) and tripod are essentials for wildlife pictures, together with a set of binoculars and lens cover. You will not be able to focus clearly using your mobile. Be sure to cover the lens even in the car as sand will be your constant companion.

 

Be sure to check whether your household insurance policy covers all your camera equipment adequately.


23 – WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE?

 

The quality of food in Namibia is very good and you will find a mixture of traditional African and German cuisine on offer together with a wide selection of game meat. Be sure to try some snacks of biltong and boerewors. Lunch packs can usually be pre-ordered the night before at lodges and you can stock up on small snacks at the supermarket in towns.

For full flexibility either buy or rent a 12V travel cooler and carry food and drinks with you.


24 – MEDICAL ISSUES TO BE AWARE OF

 

Take any medications and copy prescriptions with you, together with a basic first aid kit including painkillers, antiseptic cream, and mosquito repellent.

Make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations and check with your GP for any additional ones required. Yellow fever is not required unless you are travelling from an infected region, then you are required to have a yellow fever vaccination.

Namibia is practically Malaria free, apart from the far north of Etosha, so depending on where you are travelling, check with your GP whether Malaria tablets are required as these are started prior to arrival into Namibia.


HOW TO GET TO NAMIBIA

 

The most common way for International Visitors to get to Namibia is by air. You arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport, east of Windhoek. Transfer time to Windhoek is about 45 minutes to an hour.

Airlines flying to Namibia include British Airways, KLM, and South African Airways.


If you are thinking of visiting Namibia then you are in for a treat. Namibia has it all. From striking landscapes, vast open plains, rugged coastline and a plethora of wildlife, to name a few. Travelling independently and traversing this country and discovering it’s natural beauty on a road trip is a must.


MORE POSTS ON NAMIBIA TO READ

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