What is the best time to visit Namibia?

The optimal period to visit Namibia is from May to October. We advise our tourists to visit at this period, as the arid winter is optimal for exceptional wildlife viewing safaris in Namibia. Moreover, the climate is agreeable, characterized by milder temperatures and clear skies. Nevertheless, evenings may be somewhat cold, thus it is advisable to include warm clothes in your packing. This period is particularly advantageous for families with children or the elderly to visit Namibia, as the risk of malaria is minimized.

Visiting Namibia in September and October entails experiencing extremely high temperatures, whereas June and July may witness freezing conditions during the evenings. The rainy season occurs from November to April, potentially resulting in desert flooding and exceptional photographic opportunity.

What activities are available in Namibia?

Where shall we commence? Namibia offers numerous activities, making it a favored travel destination. The Namib Desert, the oldest desert globally, should be prioritized at the top of your list of destinations. Sossusvlei, situated in this desert, is a salt and clay pan surrounded by imposing red dunes, providing ample opportunities for adventure. The tallest dune, Big Daddy, ascends around 325 meters. Ascend to the heavens to observe this ethereal realm from an aerial perspective. Additionally, you may engage in quad biking to enhance the adrenaline experience.

Etosha National Park is ideal for a safari in Namibia, hosting four of the Big Five species, excluding the buffalo. Additional animals to anticipate include giraffes, cheetahs, springboks, hyenas, two species of zebra, and numerous others.

Namibia is vast and sparsely inhabited, featuring numerous pristine landscapes and a variety of wildlife species to appreciate. Numerous creatures have acclimated to the severe environment, even flourishing despite significant challenges. In regions such as Damaraland, one can observe this directly.

However, Namibia encompasses more than just desert landscapes. The seashore is equally magnificent. Numerous adrenaline-inducing sports are available in the coastal city of Swakopmund. Photographers will find delight in the striking vistas and the desolate Kolmanskop, an abandoned mining town near Lüderitz that has been engulfed by dunes. The convergence of desert and ocean at Skeleton Coast, renowned for its shipwrecks, is an essential destination, particularly when viewed from a helicopter. Ensure you include Caprivi in your itinerary, since it is perfect for those wishing to combine a journey to Namibia with Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Zambia.

Finally, the Waterberg Plateau region provides intriguing cultural insights into indigenous tribes, such as the Herero people. It is a picturesque location, featuring numerous hiking paths and opportunities to appreciate rock art works.

What are the recommended destinations in Namibia?

Namibia boasts numerous remarkable destinations. Here are just of the premier options we suggest incorporating within your plan.

Sossusvlei

– Skeleton Coast

Swakopmund

Etosha National Park

– Waterberg Region

Windhoek

What is the cost of a safari in Namibia?

When reserving a safari in Namibia with us, your vacation will be customized to your personal preferences and requirements. The overall cost will be contingent upon several elements, including but not limited to the length of your visit, accommodation, mode of transportation, seasonality, and additional considerations. Typically, our Namibia safaris range from $100 to $1,500 per person per night, contingent upon service provider availability and seasonal factors.

What is the method of reaching Namibia?

Accessing Namibia is effortless due to its excellent connectivity. Daily flights from South Africa and Botswana, along with a Charter Flight Network linking to surrounding lodges for a luxury fly-in safari, ensure a swift and convenient journey to your destination in Namibia. Additional information regarding travel to Namibia is available.

Which species of wildlife are observable in Namibia?

The ocean and desert landscapes of Namibia host a diverse array of species. Examples include the Big Five, zebra, free-ranging black rhino, Cape fur seals, the national symbol Oryx, and several other antelopes. Explore further information regarding Namibia’s fauna.

Which cultures and traditions are present in Namibia?

Despite its low population, Namibia boasts a remarkable diversity of cultures and traditions. These encompass numerous indigenous tribes, including the San, Himba, Nama, Damara, and Herero. The German colonization significantly influenced the region, shown in its cuisine, architecture, and the prevalent use of the German language. Explore the intriguing cultures of Namibia.

Is a visa required for entry into Namibia?

Nationals from many countries, including Australia and the USA, are not required to obtain a visa to enter Namibia. Travelers are advised to consult the embassy prior to departure to obtain the most current information.

What is the duration required to process my visa application?

The processing time for a Namibian visa typically ranges from 2 to 3 business days. Expedited processing on the same day is offered for an extra charge.

What are the prerequisites for obtaining a visa?

The prerequisites for a holiday and transit visa (single entry only) include: a completed visa application, original passport, a motivation letter succinctly outlining your goal, an itinerary, two passport-sized photographs, and a copy of your air ticket.

Applicants for transit visas must possess a visa or permit for permanent or temporary residence at their final destination.

What is the required duration of validity for my visa?

Consult the Namibian Embassy in your country for the latest visa information.

Kindly confirm this information independently with the appropriate embassy, high commission, or consulate.

Am I permitted to drive in Namibia?

Namibia is a premier and much sought-after self-driving destination in southern Africa. When organizing a self-driving expedition to Namibia, there are several regulations to consider. Vehicles are configured for right-hand drive, and all traffic operates on the left side of the roadway. The speed limit on open highways is 120 km/h, whereas in urban areas it ranges from 60 km/h to 80 km/h. Seatbelt usage is mandatory at all times, and utilizing a mobile phone while operating a vehicle is prohibited.

Namibia possesses one of the finest road networks globally, with even its gravel roads being safe for vehicular travel. All road signs are universally recognized and comprehensible. Refrain from excessive correction while driving, as numerous routes feature subtle curves that may lead to vehicle skidding. Additionally, use caution of Namibian wildlife traversing or foraging adjacent to the roadway.

Gas stations are far located in Namibia, making regular refueling essential during self-driving excursions. To ensure safety, take a jerry can of additional fuel during your travel. Be advised that certain gas stations in Namibia exclusively accept cash payments. It is advisable to drive exclusively during daylight hours, from sunrise until just prior to dusk.

Is an electrical plug necessary?

The Type M (or South Africa) plug serves as the standard plug utilized in Namibia. This plug is larger than the Type D and features three circular pins. Ensure you purchase the appropriate travel adaptor prior to commencing your journey to Africa.

Is internet access available in Namibia?

Internet access in Namibia is well-established and reliable, ensuring minimal difficulty in obtaining Wi-Fi in hotels or lodges. Many cities also provide internet cafes. Be advised that in certain distant locations, Wi-Fi may not consistently be accessible.

Namibia possesses two primary mobile service providers: MTC and Cell One. SIM cards and mobile devices are widely accessible across the nation. Dialing 112 with MTC and 120 with Cell One connects you to 24-hour emergency services for police, ambulance, or fire brigade assistance. Both networks own roaming agreements with global providers. Cellphone coverage is adequate, however somewhat inconsistent in more isolated regions.

Domestic mail in Namibia is notoriously sluggish, although foreign mail can arrive at its destination in around two weeks.

Practical Travel Recommendations

If you intend to visit Namibia, here are some essential tips to consider before to your departure:

– Refrain from wearing camouflage, as it is prohibited for civilians to don such attire;

– Namibia is a secure nation; but, when self-driving, refrain from traversing isolated regions and ensure your vehicle remains locked at all times.

– Self-driving excursions provide travelers with flexibility when navigating Namibia; however, it is advisable not to hasten the journey—optimal enjoyment is achieved by spending a minimum of 2-3 nights at each location.

– The Sperrgebiet (Forbidden Area) on route to Lüderitz is a restricted diamond zone and is inaccessible to the public;

– Namibia has not fully accepted homosexuality, and we request that homosexual couples adhere to the country’s norms by refraining from and minimizing public displays of affection.

Practical Medical and Health Recommendations

Prior to embarking on a journey, it is essential to visit your physician and obtain comprehensive travel and health insurance that encompasses all planned activities during your holiday in Namibia. Here are few beneficial health recommendations to consider:

– Mandatory vaccinations for travelers entering Namibia are not required, save for those arriving from a yellow fever region, who must present a vaccination certificate upon arrival.

– Malaria presents a medium risk in Northern Namibia, particularly in Etosha National Park and the Caprivi Strip, whereas the remainder of the country exhibits low to negligible risk. The greatest danger of transition occurs during the rainy season from October to May;

– Advanced medical services will predominantly be centered in major towns and cities;

– Consult your healthcare provider to ascertain which immunizations require renewal before to traveling to Africa.

Practical Currency and Exchange Recommendations

Vacationing in Namibia? Here are essential financial considerations you must understand prior to your departure:

– The Namibian Dollar (N$) serves as the official currency of Namibia. Currency notes are available in denominations of N$10, N$20, N$50, N$100, and N$200. The coins are available in denominations of N$5, 50 cents, 10 cents, and 5 cents.

– American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard, and Visa are extensively accepted across Namibia. The South African Rand (ZAR) is pegged to the Namibian Dollar at a 1:1 ratio and is an accepted currency for transactions in Namibia.

– Currency exchange is available at various banks and bureaux de change across Namibia.

– Individuals aged 18 and above may import the following items exempt from customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 2 liters of wine or 1 liter of spirits, 50 ml of perfume or 250 ml of eau de toilette, plus gifts valued at N$3,000;

– The import and export of local currency is restricted to N$50,000, whereas the import and export of foreign currency is unregulated;

– Banks typically operate from 09:00 to 15:30 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 11:00 on Saturdays.