Exploring the Wonders of Namibia: A Journey Through its Natural Beauty
Namibia is a country of vast and astonishing landscapes. Home to the world’s oldest desert and one of the least densely populated countries on earth, there is plenty more than just rock and sand in South West Africa.
The Namib desert plays host to some truly incredible sights. The breath-taking ochre dunes of Sossusvlei are some of the highest in the world, the treacherous Skeleton coast lies to the north, populated with thousands of rusting shipwrecks, and perhaps most dramatic of all, Damaraland is home to the Spitzkoppe rock formations, bizarre petrified forests, and oasis-like valleys.
Cities such as Swakopmund and Luderitz stand as time warps, pretty relics of German colonial rule. Windhoek, the capital, is a modern oasis in the desert, offering shelter from the harsh African plains and a great start or end point to an African desert adventure.
Just north of the border with South Africa, the Fish River Canyon may well be one of Africa’s greatest natural phenomena, as it’s 100 miles (160km) long, up to 17 miles (27km) wide, and 1800 feet (550m) deep. Etosha National Park in the north is among the world’s great theaters for wildlife viewing. Waterholes around the iconic Etosha Pan are oases for the vast herds and big predators that roam the salt flats. Caprivi panhandle, a long narrow strip of land in the north east of the country, connects Namibia with Victoria Falls and the Chobe National Park in Botswana, and is a haven for wildlife in its own right.
Early Portuguese sailors sought to avoid what they called ‘the sands of hell’. Today, visitors have discovered the vast potential of Namibia, a country rich in natural resources, with desert landscapes, sunshine, wildlife, and a stark barren beauty.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the official language, but many people also speak Afrikaans and German. There are also several indigenous languages spoken, mainly in the rural areas.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Namibia must have confirmed return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Additionally, visitors should ensure that they have at least two blank pages remaining in their passports for entry and departure endorsements from the Namibian Immigration Service. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Namibia if visitors are arriving from or have transited through an infected area. All travellers must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay in Namibia.
- Currency:
The official currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is divided into 100 cents. Its value is equal to the South African Rand, which is accepted as legal currency in Namibia. Major credit cards are accepted, while foreign currency can be exchanged at any bank or bureau de change. ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round three-pin plugs are standard.
Overview
Travel in Namibia is a celebration of dramatic landscapes. Whether on an organised tour or going solo in a 4×4, visitors cannot fail to be astonished by the Namib desert and the many other natural phenomena they will stumble across. Most tourists start in Windhoek, the capital, getting their bearings among the German colonial architecture before venturing out into the great unknown. Heading in any direction brings its rewards.
South leads to the Fish River Canyon, where activities include a five day hike along the canyon floor, or for the less adventurous, day trips out to a view point or a stroll along the edge of the canyon. North heads to Etosha National Park. Visitors to this stunning area can stay in stunning bush camps such as Halali or Okaukuejo and witness Africa’s herds arrive at the waterholes in their thousands. The extreme north of the country, the Caprivi Strip, hosts exciting new wildlife havens such as Nkasa Rupara National Park, and Bwabwata National Park, both now thriving with new game, and especially birdlife.
Swakopmund, on the west coast, is Namibia’s adventure capital, where activities include dune boarding, quad biking, hot air balloon tours, and many more. It is also the gateway to the vast Namib desert. Visitors can camp nearby in Sesriem and get up pre-dawn to visit the colossal Sossusvlei dunes. Sunrise from Dune 45 is a truly unforgettable experience. Further inland, Damaraland plays host to the prehistoric rock art of Twyfelfontein and Brandberg. The imposing formations of Spitzkoppe, Africa’s Matterhorn, are favoured by experienced climbers.
The Owambo region is Namibia’s cultural centre and home to the Himba people, a culturally rich tribe notable for their striking dress. Guided walks in the region are available to visitors who seek a window into the traditional way of life in the desert.
Climate in Namibia
The climate of Namibia is generally hot and dry, with rainfall occuring exclusively in the summer months between November and February, when some humidity and heavy thunderstorms are sure to be expected. Even during the rainy season, thunderstorms tend to be localised and occur more frequently in the centre and east of the country, while the desert receives markedly less rain. Summer is very hot and the Namib Desert should be avoided at this time, as temperatures are often above 104F (40C) and are extremely uncomfortable.
The coast is cooler and often foggy in summer. Average winter temperatures during the day range between 64F (18C) and 71F (22C), and the days are pleasantly warm and sunny. Nights can be very cold, though, especially in the desert, with frost covering the ground in the mornings.
The best time to visit Namibia is during winter from March to October. April and May are green and fresh, while June and August are the best for game viewing, as animals tend to congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. September and October are also fantastic for game viewing, but can be very dry and dusty.
Health Notes when travelling to Namibia
Typhoid, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for travel to Namibia. Safety regulations in Namibia require all visitors who are over the age of nine months to have a yellow fever certificate if they’re arriving from a country with a risk of transmission. There is a malaria risk in the northern region of Namibia during the rainy season (January to April).
There has been an increase in the cases of rabies among dogs in Windhoek, so travellers at risk of animal bites should consider a rabies vaccination; everyone five years of age and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before visiitng. HIV/AIDS is prevalent and precautions are essential, although travellers are seldom at risk unless engaging in unprotected sex. Cholera outbreaks do occur, so visitors should drink only boiled or bottled water, avoiding ice in drinks.
There are good medical facilities in Windhoek, but medical insurance is essential as treatment is expensive. Outside of the main cities, medical treatment may be hard to come by. Travellers to Namibia should seek medical advice at least four weeks prior to departure. For peace of mind, it is best to take prescription medications along when travelling. Medicines should be kept in their original packaging and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor, detailing why the medication is needed.
Safety Notes when travelling to Namibia
The majority of visits to Namibia are safe and trouble free, but muggers in Windhoek sometimes target foreign tourists. Theft from vehicles does occur, especially at service stations, so valuables should be kept out of sight and cars should be locked. Travellers should avoid using taxis if possible and should never take one alone. It’s best to be especially careful when travelling in the Caprivi Strip; drivers should use it during daylight hours only, both for general safety and to avoid livestock, which wander onto roads causing accidents. The terrorism threat in Namibia is very low, with no major incidents of violence against foreigners reported.
Customs in Namibia
It is best to check before taking pictures of State House or properties where the President is residing, as well as any buildings guarded by the army or police. Some sexual relations between men are criminalised in Namibia, although these laws may not always be enforced.
Duty Free in Namibia
Travellers to Namibia over 16 years do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250g of tobacco; 2 litres wine and 1 litre spirits or liquor; 50ml perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette; and gifts to the value of NAD 1,250.
Doing Business in Namibia
Business in Namibia is somewhat formal, although drinking and socialising are an important part of building good working relationships. Standard business etiquette applies. Dress tends to be formal, though lightweight materials tend to be worn in the hotter seasons, and punctuality is important. People shake hands on greeting and leaving, and are generally polite and professional. English is the language of business, though German and Afrikaans are widely spoken. Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Namibia
The international access code for Namibia is +264. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Large parts of the country are not covered by the mobile network, so a satellite phone is a good backup option for those heading off the beaten track. WiFi is increasingly available in hostels, hotels, lodges and guesthouses; travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Tipping in Namibia
Tips of 10 percent are expected where a service charge has not been included in the bill. Tour guides, game rangers, and trackers rely on tips for their income and should be tipped accordingly.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Namibia must have confirmed return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Additionally, visitors should ensure that they have at least two blank pages remaining in their passports for entry and departure endorsements from the Namibian Immigration Service. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Namibia if visitors are arriving from or have transited through an infected area. All travellers must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay in Namibia.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their planned date of departure, and at least three completely blank pages are required for entry. No visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry to Namibia, but no visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British passports should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Namibia and have at least one completely blank page for Namibian immigration to use. If British travellers are also visiting South Africa, they should be aware that although South African authorities state they require one blank passport page for entry, some officials insist on two blank pages. If travellers plan to take this route, they should make sure they have a total of three blank pages. No visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry to Namibia, but no visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry to Namibia, but no visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry to Namibia, but no visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African passports must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry to Namibia, but no visa is required for tourist or business-related stays of up to three months.
Tourist Offices
Namibian Tourist Office, Windhoek: +264 (0)61 290 6000 or [email protected] or http://www.namibiatourism.com.na
- Tourist Authority Offices in the United Kingdom:
Nambia Tourist Office, London: +44(0)20 7367 0962 or www.namibiatourism.com
- Tourist Authority Offices in South Africa:
Namibian Tourist Office, Cape Town: +27 21 422 3298 or www.namibiatourism.com
Namibia Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Namibia, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Canada): +1 202 986 0540.
- In the United Kingdom:
Namibia High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7636 6244.
- In South Africa:
Namibia High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 481 9100.
Foreign Embassies in Namibia
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Windhoek: +264 (0)61 295 8500.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Consulate, Windhoek: +264 (0)61 251 254.
- British Embassy
British High Commission, Windhoek: +264 (0)61 274 800.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Namibia): +27 (0)12 423 6000.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Lusaka, Zambia (also responsible for Namibia): +260 211 291 298.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Namibia): +27 (0)12 435 9000.
- South African Embassy
South African High Commission, Windhoek: +264 (0)61 205 7111.
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