Cheetahs and the Skeleton Coast: A Namibia Safari Adventure

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.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Namibia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. It must also have at least 3 blank pages. If you’re travelling to Namibia through South Africa read the South Africa travel advice.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

From 1 April 2025 you will need a visa to visit Namibia. The Namibian authorities have launched a visa on arrival scheme, which is extended to UK passport holders.

You can either apply for a visa on arrival when you arrive at a Port of Entry for Namibia, or you can apply online up to 90 days, before you travel for an e-visa.

For either route, the cost is 1,600 Namibian dollars for travellers over 11 years old.  Children between the ages of 11 to 6 will will be charged 800 Namibian dollars. Children under the age of 6 will not be charged a fee for a visa on arrival. When granted a visa on arrival, you will receive a multiple entry visa valid for the period that you have requested.

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: No
Diner’s Club: No

Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 08:30 – 15:30, Saturdays: 08:30 – 12:00
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes

Air:
Main airlines: Airlink, Fly Namibia
International Airports: Hosea Kutako International Airport, Walvis Bay 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: No
Subway System: No

Water:
Ferries: No
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes

HEALTH

You should seek medical advice at least 8 weeks before travelling to Namibia to discuss any appropriate vaccinations or other preventative measures, and assess health risks taking into account your destination, planned activities and medical history.

Please note that for your own safety you should inform us about any intolerances or allergies against any medications that you may have and of any medical conditions, for example high blood pressure, epilepsy, asthma, heart conditions, etc. Make sure you know your blood group.

Country-specific information on vaccination requirements and general disease protection and prevention can be found on the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website or from NHS (Scotland) on the fitfortravel website. Useful information and advice about healthcare abroad is also available on the NHS Choices website.

Vaccinations

Travellers should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK. These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine. However, inoculations against typhoid, tetanus, and hepatitis A are recommended. Please consult your GP for further advice.

Malaria

There is a high risk of malaria throughout the year in the Caprivi Strip, Kavango and Kunene river regions. Anti-malaria tablets are strongly recommended if travelling to Northern Namibia.

There is a very low risk of malaria in the rest of Namibia: awareness of risk and bite avoidance recommended.

Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in Namibia, however, there is a certificate requirement.

Under International Health Regulations, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 9 months of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), from 11 July 2016 (for all countries), the yellow fever certificate will be valid for the duration of the life of the person vaccinated. As a consequence, a valid certificate, presented by arriving travellers, cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since the date vaccination became effective as stated on the certificate; and that boosters or revaccination cannot be required.

Health Facilities

There are good medical facilities in Windhoek. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. Even with fully comprehensive travel insurance, private hospitals in Namibia may insist on proof of payment (cash or credit card) before starting treatment. They may also insist you pay up front, reclaiming from your insurer at a later date. Some travel insurance policies are not recognised by some Namibian hospitals, you should check with your provider if their product is accepted in Namibia before you travel and seek alternative coverage where necessary. Medical evacuation from remote areas can take time.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you're travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines - https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-abroad

None of the Art Safari team is medically qualified, so we strongly recommend that you discuss your own particular needs with your doctor or practice nurse, at least 8 weeks before travel, for up-to-date, individual advice.

 Safety and security

Terrorism in Namibia

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Namibia, attacks cannot be ruled out.  

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Muggers often target tourists in Windhoek. Attacks may be violent and can take place at any time of day and in busy city-centre locations. To reduce your personal risk:

• be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark
• keep your valuables and cash out of sight or use a hotel safe
• do not change large sums of money in busy public areas

Vehicle crime

Gangs sometimes try to enter vehicles at busy intersections in Windhoek. Theft from vehicles, particularly at service stations, is common. To reduce the risks:

• do not leave your vehicle unattended at fuel stops
• keep car doors locked and windows shut, especially in heavy traffic
• keep valuables off the seats and out of sight

To reduce the risk of robberies from taxis:

• do not hail taxis from the street, particularly in Windhoek
• ask your hotel, guest house or tour operator to recommend a reputable taxi company
• do not enter townships at night, unless you are with someone with local knowledge

Credit card skimming

There have been cases of credit card skimming at some hotels and lodges. Always keep your card in sight when paying and check your statement.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry UK photo ID. You may need to show ID at police checkpoints in Windhoek and other major towns and cities. Keep copies of the photo page of your passport and important documents separately in a safe place.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in Namibia. Certain same-sex sexual acts are illegal, but generally not prosecuted. There are no laws against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Conservative attitudes towards LGBT+ individuals remain, especially in rural regions. Showing affection in public may result in unwanted attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Penalties for using or smuggling illegal drugs can be severe. Penalties include large fines and imprisonment.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. You will be prosecuted and could get a fine or prison sentence for buying or trafficking these goods, including ivory and rhino horn.

Using cameras in secure areas

Police have detained people for taking pictures of the President’s official residence. Check before taking photographs of government buildings or in secure areas.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for any adventure activities you plan to do, like quad biking, dune boarding or hot air ballooning.

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. 

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. 

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 

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. 

Time Zone

Namibia  is 2 hours ahead of the United Kingdom (GMT).

Language

English, Afrikaans and German, as well as many indigenous languages, including Khoisan, a group of African dialects famous for their clicking sounds.

Religion

80% of Namibians are Christian and 20% follow Animism.