Namibia

The Land of Endless Horizons and Dunes

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Namibia, a southwestern African country, is known for its dramatic deserts, including the Namib Desert and the red dunes of Sossusvlei. Home to iconic sites like Etosha National Park, the Skeleton Coast, and Windhoek’s historic buildings, Namibia offers a striking blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The country’s geography features arid landscapes, savannas, and coastal plains.

Namibian culture combines indigenous San, Himba, and colonial German influences, reflected in its art, music, and cuisine like oshifima (maize porridge) and game meat. Known for its wild landscapes and warm hospitality, Namibia is a fascinating destination for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Namibia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Namibia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the UK, US, and EU nations, can enter Namibia with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Namibia, either through an embassy, high commission, or upon arrival (subject to approval).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Namibia without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Namibian visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Namibia using only a valid national ID card:
    • Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states (e.g., South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe)

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period for eligible countries.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Namibian embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health and Social Services.
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Driving in Namibia

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Namibia has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Windhoek-Swakopmund road (B2) are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Roads Authority of Namibia.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Namibian Dollar (NAD) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Namibia

  • Drive on the left side of the road (due to historical ties with the British Commonwealth).
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; urban roads in Windhoek and Swakopmund are generally good, but rural roads, especially gravel or sand tracks, can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season (November to April). Exercise caution in remote areas.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Namibian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Namibia has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to wildlife crossings, poor road conditions in rural areas, and occasional banditry in remote regions. Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to poor visibility and animals on roads.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is generally reliable, but keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in desert and rural areas like the Namib or Skeleton Coast.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, and fire).

Useful Links

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Namibia Currency

The official currency of Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD).
(Note: The Namibian Dollar is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR), which is also legal tender in Namibia.)

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 NAD
  • Coins: 5, 10, 50 cents; 1, 5, 10 NAD
  • Symbol: N$

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek), and major hotels in Windhoek and Swakopmund.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct NAD or ZAR withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Windhoek, Swakopmund, and tourist areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash (NAD or ZAR) for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Namibia website: https://www.bon.com.na/exchange-rates
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Legal Essentials for Traveling in Namibia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Namibia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues, especially related to land ownership or historical colonial matters.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 7 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Namibia.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially indigenous groups like the Himba or San.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Namibia Tourism Board or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

Namibia Travel Safety

Namibia is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Namibia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Windhoek and Swakopmund. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Namibia is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to gravel roads, wildlife crossings, and poor conditions in rural areas.
  • Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting, wildlife, and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water in rural areas; drink bottled or purified water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies (for long-term stays), and COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria, dengue, and Rift Valley fever (in northern areas).
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 2,604 meters (Brandberg Mountain).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the Mediclinic Windhoek offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 081 924 | Fire: 081 960 | Police: 10111.
  • Tourist Police (Windhoek): +264 61 209 4111.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural or desert areas like the Namib Desert or Etosha National Park. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Fish River Canyon).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or land-related issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (May to October).

Key Links

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Flying to Namibia