Explore Namibia, Botswana & Victoria Falls with Namibia Adventure Travel Agency 2020

Namibia posesses some of the most stunning landscapes in Africa, and a trip through the country is one of the great road adventures. Natural wonders such as that mighty gash in the earth at Fish River Canyon and the wildlife utopia of Etosha National Park enthrall, but it’s the lonely desert roads where mighty slabs of granite rise out of swirling desert sands that will sear themselves in your mind. It’s like a coffee-table book come to life as sand dunes in the world’s oldest desert meet the crashing rollers along the wild Atlantic coast. Among all this is a German legacy evident in the cuisine and art nouveau architecture, and in festivals such as Windhoek’s legendary Oktoberfest. Namibia is also the headquarters of adventure activities in the region, so whether you’re a dreamer or love hearing the crunch of earth under your boots, travel in Namibia will stay with you long after the desert vistas fade.

Money and currency

The Namibian dollar (N$ 100 = € 5) is 1:1 with the South African rand. The South African rand is also legal tender in Namibia and is accepted everywhere. Most hotels and shops accept international credit cards. Many hotels offer the possibility to change your money. Many petrol stations take cash & credit cards. Smaller towns with small petrol stations tend to accept cash only. You can withdraw money up to N$ 5,000 from ATMs using VISA and MASTERCARD. ( As of 02/2023 )

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and public holidays. Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash, bank and credit cards as well as travellers cheques.

You can also obtain cash from many of the ATMs. Several international banks have branches in main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they have not been informed.

Flights:
Eurowings currently offers the fastest connection to Namibia. From Frankfurt to Windhoek, overnight in about 10 hours. From there you can fly on to other popular destinations. Another option for travel is with Quatar, Ethiopia Airlines or Air Link with a change of planes. If you require flights, we are happy to offer these flights as well.

Baggage:
For information on baggage regulations and other information, please contact the airline directly or check your tickets.

Health:

Namibia is a very dry country, few pathogens can survive in this climate. Vaccinations are not required. However, hepatitis A vaccination and tetanus vaccination are recommended. When visiting Etosha National Park, the northern region and the Caprivi Strip, malaria prophylaxis should not be missed.

Traditional Namibian cuisine is rarely served and so the food at restaurants tends to be European in style and is, generally, of a very high standard.

Namibia is very meat-orientated, and many menu options will feature steaks from various animals. However, there is usually a vegetarian and seafood section offered by most camps and restaurants.

In the supermarkets you'll find pre-wrapped fresh fruit and vegetables (though the more remote the areas you visit, the smaller your choice), and plenty of canned foods, pasta, rice, bread, etc. Most of this is imported from South Africa.

The water in Namibia's main towns is generally safe to drink, though it may taste a little metallic if it has been piped for miles. Natural sources should usually be purified, though water from underground springs and dry riverbeds seldom causes any problems. However, filtered and bottled water are readily available in most towns and all camps, lodges and hotels.

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. 

Namibians have a somewhat relaxed attitude to dress code. A jacket and tie are very unusual. Long trousers and a button-down shirt are often quite sufficient for formal occasions or as work clothes. A pair of sensible shoes, jeans and a T-shirt are recommended.

During the day it is usually hot, so pack light, loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics such as linen or cotton that will keep you cool and are easy to wash and dry.

Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect you from mosquitoes at night. 
Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect your against mosquitoes at night.

MTC Namibia shops offer you the possibility to buy a phone card on the spot. There is a choice of different packages. With GB for internet, phone minutes and SMS. You can get more information at the following link: https://mtc.com.na.

Alternatively, good Wi-Fi access is available at most holiday accommodation throughout the country (free/chargeable).

Telephoning in Namibia

The two leading providers are MTC. You can get the card at MTC branches.

Tipping

In Namibia the service standard is very high. Every service person, e.g. park attendant, chambermaid, petrol station attendant, taxi driver etc. is always happy to receive a small tip. We would like to give you a few hints. Parking attendants get 5 N$, chambermaids are happy about 5-10 N$, When eating in the restaurant between 10% and 15 % tip is appropriate.

Traffic

Namibia has left-hand traffic. There is a well-developed road network consisting of asphalt and gravel roads. The speed limit on gravel roads is 80km/ & asphalt roads is 120 km/h. To rent a vehicle you need an international driving licence and a credit card.

Insurance

It is recommended that you take out international health insurance. Treatment costs must be paid immediately. They can then be claimed from your health insurance company on presentation of the bills at home. Larger bills, such as a hospital stay, are covered by the health insurance abroad. Travel cancellation insurance can be combined with health insurance abroad.

Time difference

Depending on the summer and winter time in Namibia, there is a time difference of one hour between the countries. In German winter time Namibia is one hour ahead. The other half of the year Namibia is one hour behind. During the transition periods, there are weeks in which there is no time difference. On the first Sunday in April, the time is changed from summer to winter time. On the first Sunday in September, the clocks are set back to daylight saving time.

Botswana is well known for having some of the best wilderness and wildlife areas on the African continent. With almost 40% of its land area devoted to national parks, reserves and wildlife management areas you can travel through many parts of the country has the feeling of moving through an immense Nature wonderland. The first – and most lasting impressions – will be of vast expanses of uninhabited wilderness stretching from horizon to horizon, the sensation of limitless space, astoundingly rich wildlife and bird viewing, night skies littered with stars and heavenly bodies of an unimaginable brilliance, and stunning sunsets of unearthly beauty. Experience here the stunning beauty of the world’s largest intact inland Delta – the Okavango; the unimaginable vastness of the world’s second largest game reserve – the Central Kalahari Game Reserve; the isolation and other-worldliness of the Makgadikgadi – uninhabited pans the size of Portugal; and the astoundingly prolific wildlife of the Chobe National Park. Botswana is the last stronghold for a number of endangered bird and mammal species, making your safari experience even more memorable, and at times you will feel simply surrounded by wild animals.

Currency

Botswana's currency is Pula (which means 'rain' in Setswana). It is divided into 100 thebe (which means 'shield' in Setswana). Travellers' cheques and foreign currency may be changed at banks, bureaux de change and authorised hotels.

The US dollar, Euros, British Pound and the South African Rand are the most easily convertible currencies (and accepted by some estabishments - but, generally, then an inflated rate of exchange will be used).

Banking

Full banking services are available on in major towns, although ATMs are sprouting up all over the country. Most credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants. Cultural sites and community art and craft outlets usually only accept cash.

Seven main commercial banks, as well as a number of foregin exchange bureaux, operate in Botswana. Operating hours are Monday to Friday 08h30 to 15h30 and Saturday 08h30 to 10h45.

Public transport in Botswana is geared towards the needs of the local populace and is confined to main roads between major population centres. Although cheap and reliable, it is of little use to the traveller as most of Botswana’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

Driving off the main roads in Botswana is only recommended to expects in 4x4 vehicles, that are equipped correctly. Most lodges offer transfers or they can be arranged. If, however, you will be driving in Botswana:

your home driving licence is accepted, with Engligh translation

Driving is on the left side of the road

The national speed limit is on tarred roads is 120km/h and 60km/h in towns and villages.

Be sure to watch out for wild animals on the roads!

There are major airports in Maun, Kasane and Gaborone, while smaller charter flights are used to get to the other top attractions and camps.

Food and water safety:  
Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities 
Ice: Yes within major cities 
Meat: Yes within major cities 
Street food: Yes within major cities 
 
Local cuisine: Food centres around meat such as goat, beef, chicken and fresh water fish, and a maize meal known locally as “pap”.  Adventurous culinary enthusiasts may want to try the traditional speciality of Mopane Worms, while those with a sweet tooth should make sure to sample the local Kalahari Truffles (made as a dessert) and unusual fruit called Marula. It is believed that watermelon originated here.  

Drinks:  Bojalwaja Setswana (the beer of Botswana) - created using fermented sorghum seeds.  

Tipping: 10%, usually added to the bill at restaurants. It is also customary to tip game drivers and guides.

Annual rainfall: 475 mm  
Average temperature: 27°C 
 
Summer: 
Average in highs: 31°C 
Average in lows: 20°C 
 
Winter: 
Average in highs: 23°C 
Average in lows: 22°C 
 
Best time to visit: It’s best to visit Botswana between April and September – the dry winter months. At this time, animals usually stay close to their water sources, increasing your chances of seeing them.  

Summer

In summer, lightweight, lightcoloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort.

Winter

In winter, wear trousers, longsleeved shirts / blouses and jerseys.

From May – August, night temperatures can fall below zero degrees celsius, so warm jerseys and jackets are vital, especially on morning and evening game drives.

General

Garments of neutral colours that blend with the bush and forest are advisable for safaris and game viewing.

Bring a lightweight jacket and/or jersey for unexpected temperature changes or rain.

Closed, comfortable walking shoesor gym shoes are a must in all seasons.

Special attention should be given to protection from the sun. Bring a sunhat, good quality sunscreen, sun lotion and polarised sunglasses.

Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps.

Internet cafes: Yes in cities 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes in cities 
Cafes: Yes in cities 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes in cities 

A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.

Currency 

Local currency: Zimbabwean Dollar 
Symbol: Z$ 
ISO code: ZWL 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 dollar 
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cent, 1, 2, 5 dollar 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Limited 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Limited acceptance 
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: Air Zimbabwe 
International Airports: Harare International Airport (HRE), Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) 
Domestic Airports: Yes 

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: Limited 
Subway System: No 

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

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Zimbabwean cuisine is influenced by traditional African dishes and British colonial heritage. Sadza, a thick maize porridge, is a staple, often served with meat and vegetables. Other popular dishes include Nyama, a grilled meat dish, and Mopane worms. 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Chibuku (traditional beer) and maheu (fermented drink). 

Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not included. 

Annual rainfall: Varies 
Average temperature: 22°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 10°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its best, especially in national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools. The weather is generally pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited 

Plug Type: Type D, Type G 
Voltage (V): 230 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.