Advice for Travelling to Namibia

A peaceful place made for the adventurer at heart, Namibia holidays can be exciting, action packed, or really laidback; it all comes down to how you plan your trip and what you know. Our travel experts live and work in Namibia and we have some great advice for you.

Climate

Summer Temperature Averages – 15°C to 40°C (59°F to 104°F)

Winter Temperature Averages – 0°C to 23°C (32°F to 74°F)

Rainy Season – October/November to April

For more information about the weather and what to expect month by month, have a look at our information about the best times to visit Namibia.

Packing

Usually, the days are hot but the nights can be cool. For this reason, pack for both seasons and think about dressing in layers, especially when travelling in winter. This way, as the day warms up, you can remove cloths to beat the heat. You should also think about bringing along both open and closed comfortable shoes.

Money

The Namibian Dollar is very much attached to the South African Rand which means whatever affects the Rand affects the Dollar. It also means that the Rand is accepted in most shops, restaurants and lodges. This said, the Dollar is not accepted in South Africa.

Most credit and debit cards can be used in Namibia, including the popular Mastercard and Visa. For those driving themselves through Namibia, take note that credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations.

In Namibia, banks are open between 9:00am and 3:30pm during weekdays and 8am to 11am on a Saturday. Aside from that, travellers can use the ATM to withdraw cash.

Tipping and Gratuities

Namibia has a very specific tipping culture. No tipping is allowed in the national parks and a service charge is included in most restaurant bills. Where there is no service charge, the norm is to tip 10% of the bill.

Flights and Getting Around

Namibia is easily accessible and easy to get around, provided you plan your Namibia tour the right way. Along with a world class international airport, and a couple of smaller localised airports, the country also has quite an extensive road network.

Airports of Note

Hosea Kutako International Airport – This is the major Namibian airport. Based in the capital city, Windhoek, Hosea Kutako International Airport sees thousands of travellers pass through its gates each year, which makes it the point of entry and exit for just about every Namibia safari guest.

Walvis Bay Airport – The airport is based 15km east of Walvis Bay and it is the country’s second largest airport. Its location makes Walvis Bay Airport ideal for those looking for easy access to Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast area.

If you plan to travel through Namibia on your own, it is best to hire a 4×4 vehicle, one capable of withstanding all kinds of conditions, including potholed roads and unexpected circumstances such as harsh weather conditions.

For the most part, Namibia has reliable road infrastructure which is what makes it quite perfect for those solo adventures.

Visas and Passports

To travel to Namibia, you will need a passport that will be valid for at least 6 months. As for visas, there is no need to apply for one if you are travelling from the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and most European nations. The traveller’s visa is received upon entry and will remain valid for 90 days.

Before you book a Namibia tour, make sure that you are well informed about whether or not you will require a visa.