17-Day Self-Drive Journey from Namibia to South Africa

Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa, and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund, which boasts remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in its architecture, culture, cuisine, and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, such as lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert; and, ofcourse, the Namib Desert stretching for over 2000 km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful, untamed wilderness.

Entry Requirements

Since April 2025, a visa requirement applies for German, Austrian, and Swiss citizens. A visa can be obtained:

• Online (e-visa) – we strongly recommend to apply online before your entry
• On arrival
• Through the Namibian embassy

Passport requirements:

• Valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date
• At least two blank pages

Travelling with children:

• Additional documents may be required (e.g. birth certificate and parental consent)

Yellow fever:
A valid vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country.
Note:
Entry requirements may change at short notice. It is recommended to check current regulations prior to travel.

Currency & Payments

• Local currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD)
• South African Rand (ZAR) is also accepted at parity (1:1 peg)

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and lodges. However, cash is still recommended, especially in rural areas.
ATMs are available in towns and cities. Cards should be enabled for international use.

Transport

• Well-developed road network with a mix of asphalt and gravel roads
• Left-hand traffic

Speed limits:

• Urban areas: 60 km/h
• Asphalt roads: up to 120 km/h
• Gravel roads: 80 km/h recommended for safety

Important notes:

• International driving licence recommended
• Avoid driving at night due to wildlife crossings
• Fuel stations are limited outside major towns

Charter flights:

• Maximum 20 kg luggage
• Soft bags only
• Strict baggage size restrictions apply

Medical Care
Medical care in cities such as Windhoek is good, particularly in private facilities. In rural and remote areas, however, medical services are limited.
We strongly recommend a travel health insurance, including medical evacuation cover. Upfront payment is often required in medical facilities.

Vaccinations & Travel Medicine
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry (except for yellow fever if arriving from certain countries). Recommended vaccinations include:

• Routine immunisations (e.g. tetanus, diphtheria, and possibly influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Depending on itinerary: Hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies

Malaria
There is a malaria risk mainly in the northern regions of the country (e.g. Kavango, Caprivi, northern Etosha), particularly during the rainy season.
Recommendations:

• Consistent use of insect repellent and long clothing
• Individual medical consultation regarding malaria prophylaxis

Important Note
If you develop fever during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor of your stay in a malaria-risk area.

Safety

Namibia is generally considered a safe travel destination. However, we recommend:

• Exercising caution in cities after dark and avoiding isolated areas
• Keeping valuables secure
• Using only secure, monitored ATMs for cash withdrawals

Petty crime may occur, particularly in larger cities.
During travel and safaris:

• Do not underestimate wildlife and always maintain a safe distance
• Follow instructions from rangers and guides

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 10111
• Ambulance / Fire: 911 (availability may vary by region)
• MedRescue: +264 (61) 230 505/6/7
• German Embassy: +264 61 273100
• Austrian Embassy: +264 61 222159
• Swiss Embassy: +264 81 650 7075

Cuisine
Namibian cuisine is strongly influenced by South African cuisine.
Typical dishes include:

• Braai (barbecue dishes)
• Biltong (dried meat)
• Potjiekos (stew)
• Mopane worms (local delicacy)

Climate

• Summer (November–March): hot, 30–40°C, occasional rainfall
• Winter (May–August): mild during the day, cold at night (sometimes below 0°C)
• Rainy season: January to March

Large temperature differences between day and night are typical.

Clothing
General:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Long clothing for sun and insect protection
• Sun hat, sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses
• Warm clothing for cold nights

Safari:

• Neutral colours (beige, khaki)
• Closed shoes
• Binoculars and daypack recommended
• Insect repellent and water bottle

Internet

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges
• Mobile coverage is good in cities but limited in remote areas

Recommendation:

• Local SIM cards (MTC or Telecom Namibia)
• eSIM providers such as Airalo for convenience

Electricity

• Voltage: 220–240 V / 50 Hz
• Plug types: D and M (partially also N)
• A universal adapter is required, we recommend a power bank

In lodges, electricity is often generated by generators or battery systems and may be limited at night.

General Information

• Tap water in cities is generally safe to drink but may taste chlorinated
• Opening hours:
  • Shops: Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00, Sat 09:00–13:00
  • Banks: Mon–Fri 09:00–15:30

South Africa is a fascinating and diverse travel destination, and its slogan, "A World in One Country," truly reflects reality.

The "New South Africa" has eleven official languages. In addition to Afrikaans, English is the official language. The following indigenous languages are also spoken, listed in alphabetical order: Ndebele, North and South Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu.

The transition to democracy, following the state elections in April 1994 in a country with over 56 million inhabitants, proceeded relatively peacefully.

South Africa is a highly diverse country where various cultures, religions, and ethnicities coexist, mostly in a respectful manner. The population is exceptionally friendly and helpful, eager to engage in contact and conversation with visitors to their country.

The country is three times the size of Germany (approximately 1.22 million km²) and is divided into nine provinces. It offers a variety of geographical and climatic zones, from the semi-desert Karoo to the lush subtropical Natal coast, from the Mediterranean climate of the Cape to the "Bush" in eastern Mpumalanga, formerly Transvaal. Explore and experience the magnificent blend of breathtaking landscapes: the mountainous regions perfect for hiking, vast wildlife reserves and conservation areas like Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, endless pristine beaches, modern cities, and sunshine 365 days a year, as somewhere in South Africa, the sun shines every day!

The different climate zones and the vastness of the country offer a variety of sports activities, such as horseback riding, surfing, hiking, canoeing, swimming, or golfing.

Many visitors "fall in love" with South Africa and return repeatedly to enjoy their holidays here and embark on new adventures. A major advantage is that there is no time difference (only one hour during the switch to daylight saving time/winter time), resulting in no jet lag.

Please keep in mind that unforeseen or unexpected situations may arise during your trip to South Africa. Flexibility, patience, and openness are always good companions and often the key to a wonderful journey.

Entry Requirements

Visa & Stay
Citizens of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. A “visitor’s permit” is issued upon arrival.

Travel Documents

• Passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond the date of departure
• At least two blank pages required
• Temporary passports are accepted

Children:

• Must have their own passport
• Additional documents are currently not mandatory but may be requested in individual cases

Additional Notes

• Proof of onward or return travel may be required
• Yellow fever vaccination is only required if arriving from a risk area

Note:
Entry requirements may change at short notice. It is recommended to check current regulations prior to travel.

• Currency & Payments

• Local currency: South African Rand (ZAR)

Card payments are widely accepted, even for smaller amounts. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly used.
Cash is recommended for:
Tips Smaller shops or rural areas

Transport

Car Rental & Driving

• Left-hand traffic
• International driving licence recommended
• Road network generally well developed, especially between major cities

Speed limits:

• Urban areas: 60 km/h
• Rural roads: 100 km/h
• Highways: 120 km/h

Notes:

• Avoid driving at night
• Fuel stations are less frequent in remote areas – refuel early
• Use secure or monitored parking (tipping car guards is customary, approx. ZAR 10–20)

Medical Care
Medical care in South Africa is of a very high standard, particularly in private hospitals and clinics, and is comparable to European facilities. In rural areas, services may be more limited.
We strongly recommend a travel health insurance, including medical evacuation cover. Upfront payment is often required in private facilities.

Vaccinations & Travel Medicine
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry (except yellow fever if arriving from a risk area).
Recommended vaccinations include:

• Routine immunisations (e.g. tetanus, diphtheria, and possibly influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Depending on itinerary: Hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies

Malaria
There is a low malaria risk in certain north-eastern regions, particularly from September to May:

• Parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo (including Kruger National Park)
• North-eastern KwaZulu-Natal (lower risk)

Recommendations:

• Consistent use of insect repellent and long clothing
• Individual medical advice regarding malaria prophylaxis

Important Note
If you develop fever during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor about your stay in a malaria-risk area.

Safety
South Africa is a fascinating destination but requires a higher level of awareness in daily life.
General recommendations:

• Avoid walking at night, especially alone or in isolated areas
• Keep valuables and documents secure and out of sight
• Carry only small amounts of cash
• Use only secure, monitored ATMs
• Do not leave drinks unattended
• Use official taxis or ride services such as Uber
• Do not engage with offers of supposed “permits” or unofficial fees

Petty crime (e.g. pickpocketing) may occur, particularly in urban areas.
In vehicles:

• Do not leave valuables visible inside the car
• Keep doors locked while driving

Road Safety

• Left-hand traffic
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.05%
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
• Avoid driving after dark (due to wildlife and safety concerns)
• Do not pick up hitchhikers

National parks:

• Speed limits usually 40–50 km/h
• Do not leave the vehicle except in designated areas
• Do not feed animals

Emergency Contacts

• General emergency (mobile): 112
• Police: 10111
• Ambulance: 10177

Diplomatic representations:

• German Embassy Pretoria: +27 12 427 8900
• German Consulate General Cape Town: +27 21 405 3000
• Swiss Embassy Pretoria: +27 12 452 0660
• Swiss Consulate Cape Town: +27 21 400 7500
• Austrian Embassy Pretoria: +27 12 452 9155
• Austrian Consulate Cape Town: +27 63 131 9766

South Africa’s culinary landscape is a blend of African, Indian, Malay, Dutch, French, and British influences. Expect flavorful, hearty meals and delicious local specialties.

Typical Dishes:

• Braai (Barbecue): A national tradition featuring lamb, beef, chicken, snoek (fish), or crayfish.
• Boerewors: Hearty, spiced farmer’s sausage.
• Biltong: Spiced, air-dried meat snack.
• Samp & Beans: A wholesome corn-and-bean dish – a favorite of Nelson Mandela.
• Pap (Milliepap): A porridge-style staple, often served with stews or sauces.

Climate
South Africa features a variety of climate zones:

• Cape Town and the west coast: Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wetter winters
• East coast: Subtropical, warm and humid
• Inland: Drier with greater temperature fluctuations

Seasons:

• Summer: December to February
• Winter: June to August

Clothing

• Light, breathable clothing
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Warm layers for cooler evenings depending on region

Safari:

• Neutral colours (beige, khaki)
• Closed shoes
• Insect repellent recommended

Internet & Connectivity

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges
• Good mobile coverage in cities, limited in remote areas

Recommendations:

• Local SIM cards (e.g. Vodacom, MTN, Cell C)
• eSIM providers such as Airalo

• Electricity

• Voltage: 220–240 V / 50 Hz
• Plug types: primarily Type M, increasingly Type N

An adapter and a power bank are recommended.

Drinking Water

Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and tourist areas.

Opening Hours (Guideline)

• Shops: Mon–Fri approx. 09:00–18:00, often open on weekends
• Banks: Mon–Fri approx. 09:00–15:30
• Restaurants: typically open for lunch and dinner

VAT (Value Added Tax)

• Currently: 15% (usually included in the price)

VAT refunds may be claimed upon departure for purchases above a certain amount.
Requirements:

• Original “VAT Invoice”
• Goods must be presented at departure

Refund counters are available at major international airports.

SATIB24 provides for INSPIRATION AFRICA guests 24/7 emergency assistance in South Africa with a single point of contact, ensuring fast and clear support in critical situations. The service combines medical, legal, and security support in one solution and is specifically designed for acute crisis and emergency situations. Clients benefit from immediate access to a global network of leading medical and security providers while remaining in control as experts coordinate all measures.

24-hour emergency hotline for our guests: +27 31 100 2370