Travel to

Namibia

Namibia is filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and fascinating wildlife. From the scenic landscapes in the south to the most impressive animals in Etosha National Park in the north, you will find it all in Namibia.

It is a very scenic country with many interesting things to see and stunning places to visit. To help you on your way to plan your trip, we’ve written down all our experiences in our Namibia blog posts.

Deadvlei
Spitzkoppe Camp Site
Namibia-06893
Dune 40
Deadvlei

What is the best time to visit Namibia?

 It’s important to note that Namibia is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

The overall best time to visit Namibia is from May to October. During these winter months, you can expect more cool and pleasant temperatures and less rain as this period is dry season. It is also the best time for seeing wildlife, as there’s less vegetation so you’ll have better visibility.  

June/July to October/November are considered peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Therefore, the best time to visit Namibia is during the shoulder season, in April and May, with more pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices.

What is the currency in Namibia?

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), but they pay in South African Rand just as much. It has the same values and both currencies are used together. So, don't be surprised if your change is in South African Rand.
You can pay by credit card almost everywhere. Yet, it is always useful to have some cash with you, just in case, but also to give tips.

You will find ATMs in major cities, such as Windhoek and Swakopmund, where you can withdraw money, but not in the more remote places.

What language do they speak in Namibia?

The official language in Namibia is English. Although English is the only official language in Namibia, only 3% speak English to each other. The most common language is Oshiwambo, while Afrikaans is the most widely understood national language. Most of the white population also speak either German or Afrikaans.

Is it safe to travel to Namibia?

Even though Namibia has a quite high crime rate, it is a safe destination for travelers and tourists. We never felt unsafe in Namibia. 

While the majority of visits are trouble-free, there are a few precautions to take to ensure a safe trip. Be particularly alert in major city centers and township areas. Lock away your valuables and never leave valuables visible in the car. Try to avoid traveling after dark and don't walk around displaying expensive items or large amounts of cash. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets. 

Is it safe to drink tap water in Namibia?

It is safe to drink tap water in Namibia. Keep in mind that the country faces a major water shortage. So, always use water sparingly!

What is the dress code in Namibia?

There is not really a dress code for Namibia. Generally, you can say that the dress code is casual and often Western.

It can be very hot in Namibia, so be sure to bring light fabric clothing.

How do I stay online in Namibia?

As Namibia is an African country, European roaming charges don’t count. You can get a local SIM card of MTC at the airport or in Windhoek (cheaper!). Or you can get an Esim in advance. Airalo is an excellent partner for this!

It is normal to haggle in Namibia?

Haggling is fairly common in Namibia at local markets. In these settings, it is often expected and accepted to negotiate prices with vendors. It’s always a good idea to approach haggling respectfully and be prepared for both successful negotiations and situations where the price may not be flexible. Don't exaggerate in haggling and keep in mind that a small amount for you can be a lot for the vendor.

It is not standard to haggle in shops.

Do you tip in Namibia? And how much?

Tipping in Namibia is generally expected and customary in many service-oriented industries, including restaurants, cafes, and bars. While tipping is not mandatory, it is considered a common practice to show appreciation for good service.

  • In restaurants, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10%-15% of the bill.
  • In hotels, it is common to tip the hotel staff who provide services such as carrying luggage, cleaning rooms, or providing assistance. A small tip of around 10 to 20 NAD per service is considered appropriate.
  • At gas stations, petrol attendants will fill up your tank and sometimes clean your windshields. If required, they will also check your tire pressure and oil. In this situation, it is common to give a tip of 5-10 NAD.
Which power plug do I need in Namibia?

Most power plug sockets in Namibia are of type D and M. The standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

What time zone is Namibia in?

The time zone in Namibia is GMT+2.

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Planning

18 Vanlife Hacks to Make your vanlife Easier
Traveling with a Van: Pros and Cons of Vanlife
Leave No Trace Camping: Do's and Dont's

Conversion

Camper Insulation: Your Key to Year-Round Comfort
Place a Roof Hatch, Ventilation holes and a Shore Plug
Strip and Clean: A Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Camper Renovation
Building the Perfect Floor and Walls
Powering Your Adventures: Electricity in Your Camper
Designing the Perfect Floorplan for your DIY camper
Choose and buy your van​

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