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Namibian travel information



Health and Safety 

  • Malaria Prevention: Malaria is a concern in northern Namibia. Take antimalarial medication if advised by your doctor, and use insect repellent for prevention.
  • Water Safety: Drink bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas. Tap water in major cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund is generally safe.
  • Food Safety: Enjoy local cuisine but be cautious with street food. Stick to well-cooked meals and avoid undercooked meats.
  • Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers, such as 10111 for police and 10177 for medical emergencies. 
  • Personal Safety: Be cautious with your belongings in crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night, and respect local customs and laws.


What to Pack 

  • Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings. Include a hat, sunglasses, and a scarf for dust protection.
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and sturdy hiking boots for nature trails.
  • Health Essentials: Bring some basics such as antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. Pack sunscreen and insect repellent. 
  • Travel Accessories: Carry a reusable water bottle, travel adapter.
  • Documents: Keep copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary. Store them separately from the originals.
  • Miscellaneous: Pack binoculars for wildlife viewing, a flashlight, and a travel guidebook.


Weather patterns in Namibia 

​ ​~ Summer (October to April)

  • Temperature: Hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) during the day.
  • Rainfall: This is the rainy season, with most rainfall occurring from November to March. Showers and thunderstorms are common, especially in the north and northeast.
  • Best for: Wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to dispersed animals, but the lush landscapes are beautiful.

​ ​~ Winter (May to September)

  • Temperature: Cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F) and nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing.
  • Rainfall: Very little to no rainfall, making it the dry season.
  • Best for: Ideal time for wildlife viewing, especially in Etosha National Park, as animals congregate around waterholes. Clear skies also offer excellent stargazing opportunities.

​ ​~ Spring (Late September to October)

  • Temperature: Transitioning from cooler winter temperatures to warmer summer temperatures, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
  • Rainfall: Minimal rainfall, with some regions starting to see the first showers.
  • Best for: Enjoying the changing landscapes and blooming vegetation.

​ ​~ Autumn (April to May)

  • Temperature: Gradually cooling from the hot summer temperatures to the cooler winter temperatures.
  • Rainfall: Minimal rainfall, similar to winter.
  • Best for: Exploring the country with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.


Documentation ...​for minors traveling to Namibia 

  • Unabridged Birth Certificate: Minors under 18 years old must have an unabridged birth certificate when traveling to Namibia. This applies to all minors, regardless of whether they are traveling with both parents, one parent, or an adult who is not their biological parent.
  • Affidavit from Parents: If a minor is traveling with an adult who is not their biological parent, an affidavit from the parents giving consent for the minor to travel is required. If one parent is deceased, a death certificate should be provided.
  • Parental Consent: When traveling with only one parent, an affidavit from the other parent giving consent for the minor to travel is necessary. If the other parent is deceased, a death certificate should be provided.
  • Unaccompanied Minors: If a minor is traveling unaccompanied, an affidavit from the parents/legal guardians consenting to the travel, a letter containing the contact details and residential information of the person who will receive the minor, and a copy of the identity document, valid passport, or permanent residence permit of the person who will receive the minor are required.


Money matters 

The official currency of Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD). It is linked to the South African Rand (ZAR) with a fixed exchange rate, meaning 1 NAD always equals 1 ZAR. The Namibian Dollar is divided into 100 cents.

  • Where to Exchange: You can exchange currency at banks, airports, and authorised foreign exchange bureaus.
  • Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, and major tourist attractions.
  • ATMs: ATMs are available in cities and towns, but they may be scarce in remote areas.
  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary in Namibia for services such as restaurants, guides, and hotel staff. A tip of 10% in restaurants is standard, and additional tips for guides and housekeeping are appreciated.
  • Cash: It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, tips, and in areas where card payments might not be accepted.


General driving rules in Namibia 

  • Drive on the Left: Like the UK and other former British colonies, traffic in Namibia moves on the left side of the road.
  • Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and it's important to wear them at all times.
  • Speed Limits: Stick to the speed limits, which are typically 120 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on gravel roads, and 60 km/h in urban areas.
  • No Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
  • Overtake on the Right: Always overtake on the right-hand side.
  • Passing Vehicles: Be cautious when passing slower vehicles, especially on gravel roads where visibility might be limited.
  • Traffic Lights: Referred to as "robots" in Namibia.
  • Stop Signs: Four-way stops are common, and it's important to follow the right-of-way rules to avoid collisions.