Travel Guidance

Thank you for choosing to travel with us

Art Safari is a unique way of travelling, a world leader in creative adventures.  We pride ourselves in being professional artists as well as being a professional tour operator.

Combining travel, art, adventure and huge amounts of inspiration and fun since 2003, Art Safari leads plein air painting holidays to destinations worldwide. Founded by artist Mary-Anne Bartlett, Art Safari has led more than 250 tours in Africa, Asia, Europe as well as Antarctica and the Arctic. Each year we have of wide selection of tours, often including India, Japan, Uzbekistan, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Morocco, Galapagos, France and Italy.

Colour, shape and action in magical wildlife, wilderness and city destinations

Your travel sketchbooks will become visual diaries, full of the wonders of the world.  Art Safari is for all those inspired to paint by travel and wildlife. 

Whether you are a beginner, or you are already an experienced artist, Art Safari’s professional team of tutors and guides will encourage you to sit, look, sketch, observe, soak up the atmosphere and produce many sketches and paintings of your new environment.  Our tutors include Mary-Anne Bartlett, Paul Green, Rachel Ivanyi, Ian Sedge, Karen Pearson, John Threlfall, Shelly Perkins, Mark Boyd, Julia Cassels, Darren Rees, Roger Dellar, Maxine Relton, Vicki Norman, Tom Shepherd and Claudia Myatt. 

Take in detail, observe, learn and collect memories in sketches and paintings

Art Safari’s holidays are for creative explorers: artists, writers, photographers and non-painters.  Whether travelling on your own or not, you are welcomed into a like-minded group and you can be assured of inspiration, good food, comfort and style. 

Photographers and non-painters will experience new ways of seeing from the art tutor as well as enjoying all the benefits of relaxed wildlife viewing and personal safari guiding – brilliant for photography, bird watching and learning more about nature. 

Art Safari also operates a separate tour company Close Encounters for private tailor-made holidays:  our team of specialists will introduce you to experts in nature worldwide as well as organise dreamy tours, honeymoons and specialist travel. 

The painting holiday of a lifetime

We know that you have moved mountains to make this trip possible and our team here in the UK  will do everything to make it as special as possible.  Please tell your tour leader if we can improve on anything. 

With all the memories, paintings, sketches and photos, your Art Safari will stay with you forever.  We hope that you enjoy it to the full, making the most of every moment.  When you come back, keep in mind that we’re planning new destinations all the time, so feel free to ask about what’s coming up – or even to suggest new routes!  

Have a good trip!

 ART SAFARI TRAVELLER’S CODE

Art Safari believes that this code of travel will not only benefit travellers’ themselves, but also the people and environments of the country they are visiting. Through preparation and understanding, all those who travel with Art Safari can expect to have a wonderful and meaningful trip, secure in the knowledge that they are showing a high regard for the people and culture of their chosen destination.

BEFORE YOU GO

  • To really get the most out of your trip, do some research on the places you will be visiting. Forewarned is forearmed, and it is really useful to be aware of the different cultural practices and taboos of the country you are visiting. Local music and literature can help you to get a feel for the place before you go, as well as the ever-useful guidebook.
  • Language can often be a barrier to understanding and tolerance, and even learning just a few phrases of the local lingo can be of tremendous benefit for you. Often, people find the doors are opened to an even more ‘real’ holiday experience.

MONEY & COSTS

Different places have different cultures with regards to costs, tipping and service charges, bartering, begging, guides, and tourist services. Guidebooks normally have sections explaining these things, and they are worth paying attention to, so you do not offend anyone or encourage a practice that authorities are trying to wipe out.

Local and community run guided tours are great to go on for educational value, and for the precious input they create for the benefit of local communities.

  • Be aware, in particular, of giving to children begging. Very often they are not the beneficiaries of your donation, and it also means they are less likely to go to school if they earn more for their family whilst begging.
  • Try to ensure that as much of your money as possible stays in the local community by buying local produce and souvenirs wherever possible, and not international brands. Sometimes, as much as 90 pence spent in every pound by tourists can end up outside the host country.
  • When bargaining, remember that small amounts can mean a lot more to the vendor than to you, so try to keep it lighthearted!  Remember how wealthy you will often be in comparison with the local people.
  • Try to have a good supply of notes in small denominations of US dollars and local currency.

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & RESOURCES

  • Respect the environment by taking your litter back to your hotel or accommodation, by recycling as much as possible and by taking waste such as batteries back to your home country where disposal services are more available. 
  • Please resist collecting animal and vegetable mementos: do not pick wildflowers and plants, do not collect items which may spread disease such as feathers and bones, seeds etc.
  • If you smoke, take an old film canister for storing your butt-ends until you can find a bin. Be careful with cigarette butts and used matches. They can easily start a fire in tinder dry grasslands.
  • If you go on a safari, or visit national parks, remember to stick to the routes the guides set, or the paths set out on the guide map. This will help preserve wildlife and natural habitats. Please avoid buying products that are made from endangered animals and plants.
  • Most hotels and guesthouses have a policy of washing bed sheets and towels every three days to minimise the impact that washing can have. Washing has a big impact on water consumption and detergents damage the environment.
  • Conserve water.  Conserve energy.  Try to use as little water and electricity as possible, not just in the hotels, but also during every part of your trip. Water is precious. A simple thing like not running the tap whilst cleaning teeth and turning the shower off whilst soaping yourself, can save a great deal of water.

CULTURE & PHOTOGRAPHY

  • Photographs can be the most memorable souvenirs of a holiday, and many people want to take lots. However, please do remember it can be offensive to take someone’s picture without their permission. Sometimes a souvenir postcard has a better picture, and also supports the local economy.
  • Cultural differences should be appreciated, and cultural practices adopted wherever possible, without seeming patronising.  
  • It is wise to know the local laws on drinking and drugs, and to obey them at all times. Quite often, alcohol and drugs are seen to be culturally offensive, as well as being dangerous to you.

NATURE MATTERS

• Wildlife can be dangerous. Remember that your guide is an expert, so always follow his/her advice and ask questions if you are unsure of anything.

• Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot. This is especially important near lodges or in campsites where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors.

• Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals and birds and is unsightly.

• Although the countryside is known to be home to a number of potentially dangerous species, especially snakes, scorpions, spiders and insects, very few visitors are adversely affected. Snakes tend to be shy, and generally stay away from built-up areas. Lodges and hotels often have insect (especially mosquito) proofing in their rooms. If you go on a walk, it is always a good idea to wear comfortable, enclosed walking shoes, socks, and long trousers – just as a precaution.

Namibia

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 boasting remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the 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 of course 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

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.

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: No
Diner’s Club: No

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

Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air:
Main airlines: Airlink, Fly Namibia
International Airports: Hosea Kutako International Airport, 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 and Medical Information

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 Notices

 Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

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, 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: Yes
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. 

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