Namibia Premier Sample

Namibia is named after the oldest desert on earth- the namib. Celebrated for its vast open landscapes, infinite blue skies and star-filled nights. 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.

Drones

• Due to conservation and anti-poaching concerns, drones are strictly regulated in Namibia. The use of drones is prohibited in national parks, protected areas, and near wildlife without special permits.

• Drones may be confiscated on arrival if the appropriate permits have not been obtained in advance.

• For this reason, we strongly advise against bringing a drone on your trip to Namibia.

Travel Documents

• It is the responsibility of the traveler to ensure they meet the entry and exit requirements of all countries being visited or transited through. Failure to do so may result in denied entry or exit.

• Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure from Namibia.

• Namibia requires at least three consecutive blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport on entry for visas and immigration stamps.

• At immigration, you may be asked to provide proof of onward or return travel, proof of accommodation (your itinerary), proof of sufficient funds, and travel insurance.

• Parents traveling with children under 18 may be required to present unabridged original birth certificates and, where applicable, letters of consent, depending on travel circumstances.

Travel Insurance

• Safari lodges and tour operators in Namibia require travelers to carry comprehensive travel insurance for the full duration of their trip.

• Insurance should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal belongings.

• Arranging travel insurance is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Please refer to our “About Travel Insurance” document for more information.

Visas

• We do our best to keep the information below as up to date as possible; however, it is intended as a guideline only. Meeting the visa requirements of countries entered or transited through remains the sole responsibility of the traveler.

• For the most current visa information, please consult official government immigration websites. Failure to comply may result in denied entry or exit.

• The information below applies to U.S. and EU citizens traveling on a U.S./EU passport:

  • Namibia:

    • A visa is required for most travelers, including U.S. and EU passport holders.

    • Visas may be obtained online in advance via Namibia’s official e-Visa system (recommended) or on arrival at designated ports of entry, subject to current regulations.

    • Travelers should carry printed copies of their visa approval, return or onward flight confirmation, and accommodation details.

    • Passport stamps are issued on entry and exit.

Health Requirements

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or transiting through, a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

 Cash

• Banks and foreign exchange bureaus are available at major airports and in larger towns. ATMs are widely available throughout Namibia, but they do not dispense USD notes. The local currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged 1:1 with the South African Rand (ZAR). Both NAD and ZAR are accepted as legal tender in Namibia.

• We recommend bringing sufficient small USD dollar bills to avoid having to draw cash while traveling. See tipping guidelines below.

Credit Cards

• AMEX is generally not accepted in Namibia. We recommend bringing Mastercard or VISA only.

• Most shops, hotels, lodges, and restaurants accept credit cards, though some remote safari lodges and smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Tipping

• USD, Euros, Namibian Dollars (NAD), or South African Rand (ZAR) can be used for tipping.

• It is important to carry new, untorn USD bills that are not older than 2009, as older notes may not be accepted.

• We recommend bringing small denomination notes for tipping. While most hotels and some lodges have credit card facilities and may accept tips via card, cash is the preferred tender for tips.

• A day-by-day tipping guide will be provided in your final itinerary.

• The daily tipping guidelines listed in your itinerary represent the total recommended amount for your group, not per person. These amounts are intended only as a guideline based on customary tipping practices. You should not feel obligated to pay exact amounts—please adjust up or down based on the service you receive.

• Cash (USD or local currency) is the preferred tender for tips. We recommend bringing a variety of denomination notes. If you prefer to carry less cash, tips can sometimes be left at hotels and safari lodges on credit/debit card. If you do so, we recommend leaving a note for your guide and tracker indicating that a tip was left on card and the amount.

• We suggest bringing USD $100–200 extra cash per person in a mix of denominations for any additional or discretionary tipping.

• At safari lodges, it is customary to tip once at the end of your stay. At city hotels, you may tip bellhops directly and leave a tip for general staff with the front desk when settling your bill. Tips left for general staff are shared among housekeeping, laundry, security, chefs, and management, excluding the guiding team. Lodge managers or hosts do not expect a separate tip.

• At some safari lodges, you may have a designated waiter, server, or butler. If you wish to tip this person specifically, feel free to do so. We recommend allocating approximately one-third of the amount intended for general staff.

• Most hotels and lodges provide stationery and envelopes in the room for tipping. You are welcome to include a short thank-you note if you wish.

• It is customary to tip 10–15% for spa treatments and at restaurants in cities. For assistance with luggage at airports or hotels, we recommend USD $3–$5.

• If you are doing any touring, ask your airport transfer driver whether they will also be your guide during your stay. If so, you may offer one tip at the end of your time together. If not, we recommend tipping each driver or guide at the end of the service provided.

Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 09:00 – 15:30, Saturdays: 09:00 – 11:00
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes

Charter Flights

• To maximize time spent in camp and reduce long road transfers, many inter-lodge journeys in Namibia are conducted by light aircraft. These scheduled charter flights are commonly used to reach remote regions such as Etosha, Damaraland, Kaokoland, the Skeleton Coast, and the Namib Desert.

• Flights often include multiple short stops en route to collect or drop off other passengers (usually no more than two). Aircraft changes may be required at some airstrips.

• Lodges are generally only able to confirm exact flight times the afternoon or evening prior to travel, as routes are finalized daily based on passenger movements.

• Aircraft used are typically Cessna Caravan 208s or similar light aircraft designed for short, unpaved airstrips. Helicopter transfers are rare in Namibia but may be used in exceptional circumstances.

• Flights can be warm, noisy, and occasionally turbulent, particularly during the warmer months. We recommend keeping your water bottle easily accessible and bringing anti-nausea medication if you are prone to motion sickness.

Luggage

• If you plan to check a bag on your international flight, we recommend placing an AirTag or similar tracker inside for peace of mind.

• Essential items such as medications, valuables, travel documents, and a change of clothes should always be packed in your carry-on luggage.

• Scheduled charter flights within Namibia have strict luggage limits due to small aircraft and limited cargo space. Soft-sided duffel bags are required; hard suitcases are not permitted.

• Exact luggage weight limits for your trip will be detailed in your packing list.

• Most safari lodges in Namibia offer complimentary same-day or next-day laundry services, weather permitting, allowing you to pack lighter.

It is the responsibility of the traveler to make sure they have any and all vaccines and meet all health requirements to enter any countries being visited or transited through. Please consult your medical practitioner or travel clinic at least 3 months prior to your departure date to make sure you meet all health requirements and have all necessary vaccines for the countries you are visiting.

- We recommend all travelers get an international certification of vaccination also known as a “yellow book,” which is issued by your travel clinic and approved by the WHO. This is a helpful way to keep a record of all vaccines received, such as yellow fever, cholera, hep A, hep B, typhoid, tetanus etc. The CDC advises that you be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination and that some vaccines may be required for specific destinations. You can find out which vaccines are required and/or recommended from your local travel clinic. You can also search the most up-to-date information per country on the CDC website.

- Entry into any foreign country may be denied if a traveler has a fever.

Malaria

-Malaria is present throughout Africa and can be prevented if you take basic precautions. There are several effective antimalarial drugs available. Please consult your travel clinic or doctor for the best drug for you.

Safety

-It is sensible to take basic precautions while traveling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold true for travel in general and which we suggest are also followed while you are traveling in Africa.

• Ask hotel staff for information about the safety of the specific area.
• Avoid walking with your phone in your hand. If you’re not using it for photos etc., put it away in a pocket/bag.
• Secure all luggage with a suitable lock for flights. Do not check any valuables or chronic medication.
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed and handbags out of sight. Do not leave any bags in the car unattended or unattended in general (handbags on tables, on backs of chairs at restaurants etc.)
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Separate cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you. Avoid counting cash in public. Be vigilant around all ATMs. Never let a stranger assist you at an ATM and shield the keypad when entering your PIN. Keeping large amounts of foreign currency notes poses several risks; rather settle your bills via credit or debit card where possible.
• Store all valuables, travel documents (like passports), and cash in your camp/hotel safe.
• If you have any issues with safety at any time, please let us and your hotel know immediately.

Food and Water Safety

Food hygiene standards in Namibia’s hotels, safari lodges, and established restaurants are very good. Meals are prepared to high standards, and it is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables, and salads at reputable establishments. Ice is generally safe in drinks at hotels and lodges. There is no need to restrict yourself when enjoying meals at lodges, hotels, and well-known restaurants.

Local Cuisine

Namibian cuisine is influenced by indigenous traditions as well as German and Southern African heritage. Common dishes include game meats such as kudu, oryx, and springbok, often served grilled or as stews, as well as biltong and droëwors. Kapana, freshly grilled beef, is a popular local specialty. Along the coast, particularly in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, fresh seafood such as oysters, hake, and crayfish is widely available.

Drinks

Popular local drinks include Windhoek Lager and Windhoek Draught, Namibia’s best-known beers, as well as local craft beers and a good selection of South African wines. Rooibos tea and herbal teas are also commonly available.
Namibia is hot and very dry, so it is important to drink 2–3 liters of water per day. Staying well hydrated is essential due to time spent outdoors and also helps reduce the effects of fatigue and jet lag.

Tipping

Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Namibia. In restaurants and for good service, a tip of 10–15% is standard. Guides, drivers, and lodge staff are usually tipped at the end of services or at the end of your stay.

Climate in Namibia

Namibia is one of the driest countries in sub-Saharan Africa and is known for sunny weather, low humidity, and significant temperature changes between day and night. Climate varies by region due to altitude, desert landscapes, and the cold Benguela Current along the coast. The country has two main seasons: dry winter (May–September) and wet summer (October–April), with rainfall mainly affecting the north and northeast.

Dry Season / Winter (May-September)

Central Highlands (Windhoek & Surrounds)

• Dry and sunny with mild days and cold mornings/nights.

• Day: 18–24°C / 64–75°F

• Night: 5–8°C / 41–46°F

Etosha National Park & Northern Namibia

• Excellent safari conditions with cool mornings and warm afternoons.

• Morning: 7–10°C / 45–50°F

• Afternoon: 25–28°C / 77–82°F

Southern Namibia (Sossusvlei, NamibRand, Fish River Canyon)

• Very dry with large temperature swings.

• Day: 20–25°C / 68–77°F

• Night: near or below freezing in mid-winter

Coastal Namibia (Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Skeleton Coast)

• Cool, often foggy, and windy due to the Benguela Current.

• Day: 15–20°C / 59–68°F

• Rain is extremely rare.

Wet Season / Summer (October to April)

Central Highlands & Northern Namibia

• Hotter with afternoon thunderstorms, mainly December–March.

• Day: 26–35°C / 79–95°F

• Night: 15–18°C / 59–64°F

Southern Namibia

• Remains very dry, with summer temperatures often exceeding 35°C / 95°F.

Coastal Namibia

• Temperatures remain cool year-round, with frequent fog and little rainfall.

Key Climate Notes

• Layered clothing is essential due to cold mornings and warm days.

• Namibia’s dry climate makes hydration and sun protection important year-round.

• The dry season offers the best wildlife viewing, while the wet season brings greener landscapes and fewer visitors.

Namibia generally enjoys sunny weather year-round, with warm to hot days and cool to cold nights, especially in desert and highland regions. Temperatures and conditions vary greatly by region, so layered clothing is essential for comfort during all activities.

Northern and Central Namibia (Etosha, Damaraland, Windhoek)

• Winter (May–September): Days are warm and pleasant, but early mornings and nights can be very cold, particularly on open-air game drives. Layering is key, with a warm jacket or fleece recommended for early morning safaris. Rain is rare during this season.

• Summer (October–April): Days can become very hot, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Light, breathable clothing is best during the day, with a warm layer for cooler evenings.

Southern Namibia and Desert Regions (Sossusvlei, Namib Desert, Fish River Canyon)

• Winters are sunny but cold at night, sometimes dropping near freezing.

• Summers are extremely hot, especially inland, with minimal rainfall and low humidity. Sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential.

Coastal Namibia (Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Skeleton Coast)

• The coast has a cool desert climate, influenced by the cold Benguela Current.

• Foggy mornings and strong winds are common, even in summer. Temperatures remain moderate year-round, rarely exceeding 25°C / 77°F.

• The coast receives very little rainfall, and conditions can feel chilly due to wind and fog, so a windbreaker or light jacket is recommended.

Namibia’s varied climate and desert landscapes make it one of the world’s most photogenic and comfortable safari destinations—preparing for sun, wind, and cool nights ensures you enjoy every moment. We recommend that you pack according to the pack list provided. 

Cell Signal

Cell phone signal is generally reliable in major cities and towns such as Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay. Coverage becomes limited or nonexistent in remote areas, including national parks and most safari camps and lodges. While traveling between destinations, long stretches may have no signal at all.

Power Supply

Namibia does not experience routine load shedding like some neighboring countries. However, brief or localized power outages can occasionally occur, particularly in smaller towns or remote areas. Most hotels, lodges, and safari camps are equipped with backup generators or solar power systems to ensure essential services continue uninterrupted.

Wi-Fi

Hotels in cities and larger towns generally offer Wi-Fi access. Most safari camps and lodges also provide Wi-Fi, though connectivity is not guaranteed and can be intermittent due to remote locations. Where Wi-Fi is available in the bush, it is usually sufficient for basic tasks such as email and messaging, but not suitable for streaming or large downloads. Many lodges encourage guests to take advantage of the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the surroundings.