USEFUL INFO

Namibia, a country renowned for its vast, arid landscapes, offers a unique blend of natural wonders that attract nature enthusiasts from around the world.

One of its most iconic attractions is the Namib Desert, the oldest desert on Earth, characterized by its towering sand dunes, unique flora, and diverse wildlife. The Etosha National Park is another must-visit, home to a plethora of African animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, and giraffes.

For those seeking adventure, the Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world, offers breathtaking hiking trails and stunning scenery. Additionally, Namibia’s coastline boasts pristine beaches, marine reserves, and opportunities for dolphin and whale watching.

Capital Cities: Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia.
Official language: English is the official language of Namibia.
Population: Approximately 2.5 million
Dialing code: +264.

BANKING

  • The Bank of Namibia is the central bank of the country.
  • ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.
  • Most major credit and debit cards are accepted.
  • Banking hours are typically from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

CURRENCY:

  • Local currency: Namibian Dollar (N$)
  • ISO code: NAD
  • Currency Subunit: 100 cents
  • Banknote units: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 Namibian Dollars
  • Coin units: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, 1 Namibian Dollar

BY AIR

  • Namibia has international airports in Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay.
  • Several airlines offer flights to and from Namibia.
  • Inbound / Outbound Airlines: Search for flights here. 

BY ROAD

  • Namibia has a well-maintained road network, especially in the southern and central parts of the country.
  • Car rental is available, and driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

BY BUS & RAIL 

  • Intercity bus services are available, connecting major cities and towns.
  • Train services are limited, primarily for transportation of goods.

 

BY WATER

Boat tours and cruises are available along the coast, particularly in the Walvis Bay area.

Food and water safety:

Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities and towns. However, it is advisable to drink bottled water in more remote areas.

Local cuisine: 

  • Namibian cuisine is influenced by German, South African, and African influences.
  • Popular dishes include braai (barbecue), bobotie (South African meatloaf), and kapana (grilled meat).

Local drinks:

Popular local drinks include Windhoek Lager, a Namibian beer, and Amarula, a South African liqueur made from marula fruit.

Tipping: 

  • Tipping is customary in Namibia.
  • A tip of 10-15% is generally expected in restaurants and hotels.

Seasons:

Namibia has two main seasons:

  • Summer  – November to April
  • Winter – May to October.

Climate and Weather:

  • Namibia has a desert climate with hot, dry summers and cool, dry winters.
  • Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, especially in the desert regions.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall.

Summer Clothing:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for summer.
  • Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential.

Winter Clothing:

Warm clothing is recommended for winter, especially in the evenings and early mornings.

General:

Modest dress is generally appreciated in Namibia.

Internet Availability:

  • Internet access is widely available in major cities and towns.
  • Wi-Fi is often available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.

Electricity and Plug Standards:

  • The standard voltage in Namibia is 220 volts.
  • Electrical plugs are typically South African three-pin plugs.

 

EXPLORE OUR NAMIBIA TRIP EXPERIENCES

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Naturecrazi also offers 1 Planet orientated trip to Namibia in our Volunteers section.