Adventure Activities and Assumption of Risk
Certain activities available during your travel experience, such as game drives, walking safaris, motor boating, mokoro, bungee jumping, primate trekking, hot air balloon, helicopters, white-water rafting, and similar high-adventure pursuits, carry inherent risks. We partner with trusted operators who prioritize safety; however, by choosing to participate in these activities, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and accept full responsibility for any potential outcomes or consequences that may arise (such as personal injury, illness, or other hazards). Please be advised that certain insurance policies may not cover these activities. We recommend reviewing your insurance coverage and, if necessary, obtaining additional insurance to ensure adequate protection.
Namibia is an incredibly beautiful country, with its stark, sun-drenched deserts stretching as far as the eye can see, colorful giant dunes, magnificent canyons, rugged coastline, and unique wildlife adapted to this land of extremes. It also has fascinating cultures and truly wild adventures in remote locations. With so few people – only about 2 ½ million in the entire country – there is, nearly everywhere, an unnerving and surreal, but wonderful feeling of isolation, far, far, off-the-beaten path.
There are two vast deserts – the enormous Namib – with incredible scenery and wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants and lions, and the picture-perfect towers of sand in Sossusvlei- and the Kalahari, with its beautiful mix of green acacias, yellow grass and red sand. They are both home to ancient tribes still living traditional lives. There is also Fish River Canyon, a massive gorge with breathtaking views; Etosha National Park, one of the greatest wildlife parks on the continent; the Skeleton Coast, scattered with shipwrecks and skeletons; and Swakopmund, a lovely coastal town where the desert meets the sea.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Namibian Dollar
Symbol: N$
ISO code: NAD
Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Dollar)
Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 NAD
Coins: 5, 10, 50 cents, 1, 5, 10 NAD
Banking
Card Transactions: Widely accepted
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s Club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 08:30 – 15:30, Saturdays: 08:30 – 11:00
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Airlink, Fly Namibia
International Airports: Hosea Kutako International Airport
Domestic Airports: Eros Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: No
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: Yes
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Namibian cuisine features a rich blend of German and South African influences, with a focus on grilled meats and fish. Dishes like Biltong (dried, spiced meat), Kapana (grilled meat from street vendors), and Potjiekos (slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew) are popular. Seafood is also abundant along the coast.
Drinks:
Popular local drinks include Windhoek Lager and Tafel Lager, locally brewed beers.
Tipping: customary, usually around 10-15% in restaurants.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies from under 50 mm in the desert to over 700 mm in the Caprivi Strip
Average temperature: 20°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 15°C
Winter:
Average highs: 20°C
Average lows: 5°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Namibia is during the cooler dry months from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its best in parks like Etosha National Park. The weather is pleasant for exploring the desert landscapes and other outdoor activities.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: No
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type D, M, and G
Voltage (V): 220 V
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.