Airports/Sea Ports
Namibia has 11 airports with immigration and customs facilities through which visitors can enter the country.
Chief Hosea Kutako (Windhoek) International Airport
Eros (Windhoek)
Keetmanshoop
Oranjemund
Ondangwa
Oshakati
Grootfontein
Mpacha (Katima Mulilo)
Rundu
Rooikop (Walvis Bay) International Airport
Lüderitz
In addition, all major tourist destinations have small airports, landing strips or heliports. Namibia currently has more than 200 registered airstrips. The two sea ports in Namibia are Lüderitz and Walvis Bay.
Border Posts
Namibia operates as many as 30 border posts with its 4 neighbours - Angola, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa.
Namibia/Angola
• Ruacana - Open from 08h00 to 18h00
• Omahenene - Open from 08h00 to 18h00
• Oshikango/St. Clara - Open from 08h00 to 18h00
• Rundu - Open 08h00 to 18h00
Namibia/Zambia
• Wenela (Katima Mulilo)/Sesheke - Open from 06h00 to 18h00
Namibia/Botswana
• Impalila Island - Open from 07h00 to 18h00
• Ngoma Bridge - Open from 07h00 to 18h00
• Mohembo/Shakawe - Open from 06h00 to 18h00
• Buitepos/Mamuno - Open from 07h00 to 24h00
Namibia/South Africa
• Klein Menasse/Rietfontein - Open from 08h00 to 16h30
• Hohlweg - Open from 08h00 to 16h30
• Ariamsvlei/Nakop - Open 24 hrs
• Velloorsdrif/Onseepkans - Open 08h00 to 17h00
• Noordoewer/Vioolsdrift - Open 24 hrs
• Oranjemund/Alex. Bay - Open 06h00 to 22h00
Banking in Namibia
The banks in Namibia are connected to major international communication networks and offer fast and efficient transfers of funds to and from any destination in the world. Major banks include First National Bank of Namibia and Standard Bank of Namibia. Most commercial banks in most towns are open from 0900 hours to 1530 hours on Monday to Friday and from 0830 hours to 1100 hous on Saturday.
Climate in Namibia
In general, Namibia has a dry climate with the exception of the high rainfall area in the far north-east. The country is regarded as a semi-desert country where droughts are frequently occurring. The central, southern and coastal areas constitute some of the most arid landscapes south of the Sahara.
In winter, day temperatures in the interior range from 18 0C to 25 0C. In general, winter days are clear, cloudless and sunny. At night, below freezing temperatures - even as low as -5 0C, and ground frost are common. In summer, day temperatures in the interior range from 20 0C to 34 0C. Temperatures above 40 0C are often recorded in the extreme north and south of the country. The hottest months are January and February. The coast, influenced by the cold Benguela current, boasts a relatively stable range of 15 0C to 25 0C. Heavy fog is fairly common at night.
Humidity is generally very low in most parts of the country, but can reach as high as 80% during summer, in the extreme north.
The rainy season is in the summer. Limited showers occur from October and build up to peak in January and February. Average rainfall figures vary from less than 50 mm along the coast, to 350 mm in the central interior, and up to 700 mm in the far north-east.
The seasons are as follows:-
Summer: October to April Winter: May to September
Clothing for Namibia Travel
Winter days are mild to warm, so visitors should bring light summer clothes. Nights can be quite chilly - even in summer at the coast. Warm clothes are therefore also necessary. Some of the most practical items to pack are: Shorts and cotton tee-shirts, swimming suit, comfortable walking shoes, a jersey and a warm jacket.
A hat, a good pair of sunglasses, a pair of binoculars, sunscreen, lip balm, and a flash/video camera, are all reasonable items to bring along. These items can also be bought in all large centres. Battery-operated or conventional razors are recommended for visiting remote areas.
Use of Credit Cards in Namibia
Major credit and debit cards such as American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Diners Club, are widely accepted throughout the country. However, shops in remote areas and some service stations only accept cash or petrol/garage cards.
Currency of Namibia
The official currency is the Namibian Dollar (N$). The South African Rand is also acceptable as currency in Namibia. These two currencies are at par (i.e. they have same value). The Namibian
Dollar is divided into 100 cents.
Bank notes currently available are in N$200, N$100, N$50 and N$10. Coins were also introduced in 1994 in denominations of N$5 and N$1. It is linked to the South African Rand (R) on a 1:1 basis (South African Rand = 100 cents).
Most hotels accept credit cards. Rest camps of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism accept credit cards, Namibian Dollars, South African Rand, Rand travellers’ Cheques and bank-guaranteed cheques. Note that personal cheques and foreign currency or foreign Travellers’ Cheque are NOT accepted at the rest camps.
Visa and passport Requirements for Namibia Travel
All visitors require a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry. Nationals from some countries do not need a visa if they are entering Namibia as bona fide tourists for a stay of up to 3 months. Visas and information on visa requirements, can be obtained from Namibian Embassies or Consulates, Namibia Tourist Offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Private Bag 13200, Windhoek, Tel; (+264 61) 293 21 02
Customs and Excise regulations in Namibia
Duty free allowances are: 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 250 g cigarette or pipe tobacco, 2 litres of wine, 1 litre of spirit or other alcoholic beverages, 50 ml perfume, 250 ml Eau de Toilette and gifts, souvenirs and other goods with a value of N$50,000 or less.
Drinking Water in Namibia
Tap water is safe and potable in Namibia, unless specifically stated at particular locations. Tourists traveling by road are advised to carry sufficient water at all times and to exercise extra caution in rural areas. Mineral water and ice are readily available at most service stations and shops.
Driving and Road Travel in Namibia
Namibia has a well-maintained network of surfaced and gravel roads covering more than 40,000 km in total. Namibia is rated as having the best gravel roads in the world. The Trans-Caprivi and Trans-Kalahari highways give the country access to Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Foreign visitors (not residents of neighbouring countries) must be in possession of a valid international driver’s licence if they plan to hire or drive a vehicle in this country. Cars and four-wheel drive vehicles can be hired in Windhoek, Tsumeb, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, and also at the Windhoek International Airport.
Traffic laws are strictly enforced in Namibia. Seat belts must always be worn and drivers are required to have their original driving licences at all times. The use of cellular phones when driving is illegal. Driving is on the left side of the road, and one always gives way to vehicles approaching from the right. The speed-limit is 120 km/h on open roads and 60 - 80 km/h in residential areas. It is recommended that you reduce speed on gravel roads - speeds above 80 km/h on gravel are hazardous. Slippery conditions can be encountered during the rainy season in the interior and throughout the year when using the coastal “salt” roads. The road signs are internationally recognized symbols, and roads and turn-offs are clearly signposted. Special attention should be paid to warnings of animals such antelope, warthog and kudus, as they often graze along the verges and can be unpredictable. Kudus, especially, get blinded by headlights at night, so beware of them.
For cross-border travel, documentary proof of ownership and a police clearance certificate are required for private vehicles. A letter of authorisation from the owner is necessary if the vehicle is not registered in the user’s name. Cross border charges apply for most vehicles. Car hire companies provide their own documentation if the vehicle is for cross border use. Third party insurance is required for travel in Botswana and may be purchased at the border.
Electricity in Namibia
The voltage is 220/240 volts. The outlets are of the round 3 pin, 15 amps type.
Emergency Numbers in Namibia
Ambulance: 211111
2032270
230505
Fire Brigade: 211111
Hospital: 2039111
237237
Police: 10111
Firearms regulations in Namibia
Handguns are NOT permitted in Namibia. Only properly licensed hunting rifles with valid permits, for Namibia, are permitted. Licences and permits should be applied for well in advance, as attempting to do so at the border is a lengthy process. Hunting rifles are not permitted in Botswana, and have to be carried sealed, if in transit to Namibia. All arms and ammunition should be declared even if in possession of a valid South African permit.
Fishing Regulations in Namibia
Fishing is only permitted at Terrace Bay, Torra Bay, from the Ugab River mouth to Walvis Bay and from Pelican Point to Sandwich Harbour. A licence is required. Strictly enforced rules and regulations are in place to govern the seasonal quantities and species of fish which may be caught and transported, as well as the bait used. These regulations are in place to safeguard natural resources. Visitors are advised to obtain a copy of the rules and regulations prior to venturing onto the beach.
Foreign Exchange in Namibia
Travellers cheques and personal cheques in foreign currency can be converted to the Namibian Dollar at the international airports, in the Levinson Arcade in Windhoek, and at any bank or Bureau de Change in all major towns in the country. A better rate of exchange can be obtained on travellers cheques than on cash. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars or South African Rand. The import and export of local currency is limited to N$50,000. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided it is declared on arrival. Export of foreign currency is unlimited up to the amount imported and declared, as long as the departure is within 12 months. Note: No limits exist for travel between Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland as these countries are members of the same common monetary area.
Travel Health issues for Namibia Travel
The north, north-east and far north-east of Namibia, including Etosha, are malaria-endemic areas. Travellers are advised to have the necessary medication or prophylaxis and also carry insect repellents and sprays. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the appropriate courses to take. The African sun is hot and visitors should not over-indulge. Wear a good hat, lots of sunscreen and take time to acclimatize.
Medical Facilities in Namibia
Medical services in Namibia are of a very high standard. However, the availability of most medical services is restricted to the main towns.
Emergencies or accidents that occur in remote areas can attract a high cost when transport to the main towns is required. The host establishment should be able to organise these services when requested.
Blood in Namibia is donated by selected, unpaid volunteers. The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia carefully screens all blood products for transmissible diseases including hepatitis and AIDS.
An insurance service for tourists is available from rescue companies, providing 1 to 3 months coverage for emergency transport. Aeromed (linked to Europ Assistance) and Medrescue provide a 24 hour emergency rescue operation.
Game Hunting in Namibia
While Namibia is a popular area for overseas hunters, hunting laws are very strict, in order to enforce the sustainable utilization of this valuable resource. No one may hunt or kill an animal without permission.
The hunting season is in June and July, and written permission must be obtained from the farm owner, who has the right to decide what may be hunted and what to charge the hunter. Residents of Namibia and South Africa are restricted to normal hunting seasons. Trophy hunters may hunt outside of season, except during January and December, and must have a permit from the Directorate of Nature Conservation. Trophy hunters must be accompanied by a professional hunter or a registered guide, and no handgun or bow hunting is allowed. Custom regulations allow for hunters to bring, into the country, their own rifles, but NOT handguns, subject to certain limitations. These of course must be declared at the airport. Rifles can also be hired in
Windhoek.
Languages in Namibia
The official language of the country is English. German and Afrikaans are also widely spoken. Indigenous languages include Bantu languages such as Owambo, Okavango, Herero, Caprivi and Tswana, Khoisan languages spoken by the Nama-Damara and San (Bushmen) people.
Park Entrance Fees and Permits in Namibia
Park entrance and usage fees, determined by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, are payable on arrival at all national parks and game reserves in Namibia. The fees vary from park to park.
Travel with Pets to Namibia
No pets are allowed in any resorts or game reserves. Kennels are provided at the following resorts - but owners are responsible for providing food and water for their animals:- Ai-Ais, Hardap, Daan Viljoen, Von Bach and Gross Barmen
Photography
All international-standard films and videotapes are available in Windhoek, as well as one hour film processing services. The quality is acceptable.
Public Holidays in Namibia
If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following day (Monday) will automatically be a public holiday as well.
Jan 01 New Year’s Day
Mar 21 Independence Day
Friday before Easter Sunday Good Friday
<Variable Holiday> Easter Sunday
Day after Easter Sunday Easter Monday
May 01 Workers’ Day
Easter Sunday+39 Ascension Day
May 04 Cassinga Day
May 25 Africa Day
Aug 26 Heroes Day
Dec 10 International Human Rights Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 26 Family Day
Public Transport in Namibia
A scheduled bus service is available to passengers to and from Chief Hosea Kutaka (Windhoek) International Airport and the capital. Public transport is available from Windhoek to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Victoria Fall and Swakopmund. Namibia’s man railway line runs from the South African border, connecting Windhoek to Swakopmund in the west and Tsumeb in the north. The Desert Express – a 5 star luxury train service - operates a scenic route between Windhoek and Swakopmung, along the coast. Once a year, the Rovos Rail from South Africa offers a 2,600 km trip from Johannesburg to Swakopmund.
Safety and Security in Namibia
Tourists in any country are a preferred target, so all visitors are advised to take the necessary safety precautions. Be on the alert for handbag snatchers and pickpockets. Exercise caution by keeping your vehicle locked, do not leave valuables and bags visible in the vehicle, use registered “car guards” when parking in towns - and leave cameras, electronic equipment, tickets, passports and excess cash in the hotel’s safe deposit box when you are out sightseeing.
It is fairly safe, especially in a group, to walk in the city centre at night. Avoid dark and deserted areas and ensure that valuables and personal effects are adequately insured.
Shopping in Namibia
Each region of the country produces something special - inspired by the elements, the surroundings and natural materials. The items include carpets, leather goods, ostrich products, baskets, wood-carvings, bright hand-embroidered linens, and jewellery. Look out for the trademark, “Namibian fine diamonds” in rings, earrings and burnished gold. For the visitor, these items will be treasured reminders of their holiday in Namibia for years to come.
Telecommunications in Namibia
Most of Namibia is now networked by automatic telephone exchanges, with public telephone exchanges in even the most remote places. Some rural areas, however, still have manual exchanges. To make a call in such areas, dial the exchange code and wait for the operator, then state the desired telephone number.
Cellular phone coverage is provided by Mobile Telecommunications Ltd. (MTC) through its GSM 900 network. All major towns in Namibia are covered, as well as some portions of the national highway. Currently, international roaming agreements with more than 100 networks in over 50 countries are in place.
When calling international to Namibia, dial +264 followed by the area code prefix (the first 0 in the area code should not be dialled) and then the local number. For calls from Namibia, the international access code is 00. When calling within Namibia, dial the area code, including the 0, and then the local number. The area code for Windhoek is 061. Namibian area codes and other country codes can be found in Namibian telephone directories.
Time
Namibia time, in summer, is GMT + 2 hours - from the 1st Sunday in September to the 1st Sunday in April. In winter, time is GMT + 1 hour – from the 1st Sunday in April to the 1st Sunday in September.
The Caprivi always works on the same time as Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Namibian border posts with Botswana and South Africa adjust their operating hours to their neighbours’ time i.e. GMT + 2 hours.
VAT
All goods and services are priced to include 15% Value Added Tax (VAT). Visitors may reclaim VAT for gods purchased in Namibia at the Customs and Excise offices, Department of Inland Revenue, in Windhoek. Further details can be obtained from the Ministry of Finance Information Centre.