Namibia Info

About Namibia

The Republic of Namibia is located in south-west Africa. Namibia has a population of about 2.6 million inhabitants and an area of 824 292 km² ; about 4 inhabitants per square kilometer. After Mongolia Namibia is considered the most sparsely populated independent country in the world. The population is concentrated in a few cities and the fertile north of the country. Around 44 percent of the population lives in the central north of the country. One third lives in central Namibia, with more than 400,000 people residing in Windhoek alone. The southern part of the country houses 7% of the population, while the west and the Namib Desert, with the exception of port cities, is almost deserted. Approximately 57% of the population live in rural areas. Namibia has one of the best medical systems of the African continent with the best doctor-inhabitant ratio. In 2004 Namibia featured 30 doctors per 100,000 residents.

Namibia is one of the most fascinating and diverse countries to travel to with, amongst others, some of the world’s highest sand dunes at Sossusvlei and the Etosha National Park, one of the largest protected areas worldwide. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy. The Namibian economy is heavily influenced by the sectors of agriculture, tourism and mining, in particular of marble, granite, diamonds, uranium, copper, gold, silver and other metals. The largest employer in Namibia is agriculture and mining. The fastest growing sector is tourism.

The average climate in Namibia can be described as hot and dry. The, to a large extend, arid climate, is subtropical-continental with relatively large differences between the various parts of the country.

We are grateful that we may introduce our beautiful country to you!

Namibia
Travelling with Children

Travelling with Children

Namibia introduced new immigration rules in 2016 relating to travel with children. In addition to valid passports, parents travelling with children (under 18) should at all times carry the original or certified copy of the unabridged birth certificate. The full unabridged birth certificate should list the child’s details and both parents’ details. The abridged (short) birth certificate which only lists the child’s particulars won’t be accepted by the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration.

Adults travelling with children where they are not the biological or legal guardians of those children, should be in possession of an affidavit statement from the child’s parents giving consent for their travel. If a child is travelling with only one parent, the other parent should give consent for travel in the form of an affidavit.

Unaccompanied children may be required to provide in addition to a valid passport:

  • Proof of consent from one or both parents/legal guardians in the form of an affidavit.
  • A letter from the person receiving the child including their residential address where the child will be staying.

Contact your nearest Namibian High Commission if you have any specific questions about your trip.

Travel Information

Here is some useful travel information when planning your holiday in Namibia.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

Public transport in Namibia 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 traveler as most of Namibia’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

It is easy to travel around Namibia by car, and a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adequateadaquate for most journeys. However, long distances, poor mobile phone coverage outside of main towns and infrequent petrol stations that only accept cash mean that planning ahead is vital.

There are major airlines that fly into Windhoek and Swakopmund. Other destinations are reachable by car or charter flight.

Namibians drive on the left and all signposts are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking in a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120km/h on tarred roads outside of towns and 100km/h on gravel roads. In built up areas, the speed limit is 60km/h.

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 at most restaurants in town. Vegetarians, vegans and travelers with other preferences or allergies must inform us at booking, since it is not a given that otherwise alternatives might not be available, especially in remote areas.

Supermarkets in towns usually carry a variety of fresh fruit, vegetable and other foods (though the more remote the areas you visit, the smaller the choice) Most of this is imported from South Africa, but also from Europe.

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. Filtered and bottled water is readily available in most towns and all camps, lodges and hotels.

The Namib is one of the driest deserts in the world with very little rainfall. Therefore the climate in Namibia is generally very dry and bearable which makes it pleasant throughout the year to travel.

Between October to March it should usually rain, and if so it is often localized with thunderstorms in the afternoon. These are mostly of short duration and almost never an effect on the day’s program. After the rains the air is clear and substantially free from dust, the landscapes transform to green and the first baby antelopes are born.

From June to August it cools down considerably and the temperatures at night may fall below freezing point in some desert areas . All buildings are neither heated nor well insulated. The landscape is dry and tone-in-tone with the surrounding nature. Wildlife are then seen almost exclusively at man-made water holes. From September it warms up again and the next rainy season is longed for by human and animals alike. – If you are lucky to experience the first rain of the season, you will never forget this natural spectacle.

Sunscreen and hat are also needed in winter. It is advisable to also have a good lip balm and moisturizing nasal spray.

Namibians have a somewhat relaxes attitude to dress codes. A jacket and tie is very unusual. In fact, long trousers and a shirt with buttons are often quite adequate for a formal occasion or work wear. A pair of sensible shoes, jeans and a t-shirt is recommended.

During the day it is generally hot, so pack light weight loose fitting clothes in natural fabrics, such linen or cotton, that will keep you cool and are easy to wash and dry.

Avoid blue clothing – the tsetse flies are drawn to the colour blue, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness.

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

Travel Tips

Here is some useful travel information when planning your holiday in Namibia.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

No vaccinations are required when travelling to Namibia as the country is generally disease free. Malaria occurs in the summer and rainy months but is largely confined to the northern part of Namibia. In local pharmacies and supermarkets stock very effective sprays against mosquitoes. People with allergies (e.g. bee stings, gluten intolerance etc) or other health problems (e.g. heart problems, asthma, diabetes, etc.) must have the relevant prescription medicines in their hand luggage and inform fellow passengers or guide accordingly. The next doctor or clinic is usually far away.

Persons having traveled to or through other countries where yellow fever or other epidemics occur must, at entry to Namibia, present the vaccination certificate. Hepatitis and tetanus vaccinations are recommended; detailed information from your doctor or the Tropical Institute in your area.

The climate in this country is very dry and therefore 2-3 liters of water should be consumed per day. Insufficient fluid quickly leads to dehydration which in turn can result in having to lodge an unscheduled hospital visit. The first signs are usually headache and abdominal pain and are therefore often confused with ‘indigestion’.

In the event of an accident, the policy number of your travel insurance must be specified and also the contact details of the insurance company. Without this you will in all likelihood not be taken up at a private hospital and not be transported by Emergency Evacuation flight or private ambulance companies. A copy of your travel insurance details should be secured in the car or carried on the person so that can go fast in an emergency.

Public transport in Namibia 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 traveler as most of Namibia’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

It is easy to travel around Namibia by car, and a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adequateadaquate for most journeys. However, long distances, poor mobile phone coverage outside of main towns and infrequent petrol stations that only accept cash mean that planning ahead is vital.

There are major airlines that fly into Windhoek and Swakopmund. Other destinations are reachable by car or charter flight.

Namibians drive on the left and all signposts are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking in a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120km/h on tarred roads outside of towns and 100km/h on gravel roads. In built up areas, the speed limit is 60km/h.

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 at most restaurants in town. Vegetarians, vegans and travelers with other preferences or allergies must inform us at booking, since it is not a given that otherwise alternatives might not be available, especially in remote areas.

Supermarkets in towns usually carry a variety of fresh fruit, vegetable and other foods (though the more remote the areas you visit, the smaller the choice) Most of this is imported from South Africa, but also from Europe.

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. Filtered and bottled water is readily available in most towns and all camps, lodges and hotels.

  • Water is Namibia’s scarcest commodity. Tourists can contribute positively to water-saving efforts.
  • Where possible take a shower rather than a bath.
  • It is illegal to wash a car using a hosepipe. Use a bucket of water and cloth instead.
  • Minimize on leaving water running while shaving, brushing teeth or washing hands.
  • Tap water is drinkable in Namibia unless you are advised otherwise concerning a particular location.
  • When traveling by road ensure you have adequate drinking water.