travel with marie namibia

In-Depth Namibia Travel Guide: What’s it Like to Travel in Namibia?

My road trip around Namibia is the best travel experience I’ve ever had.

Hands down.

I can’t even find the words to describe how fantastic my time in the country was. Namibia has everything. It’s easy to explore independently, it’s safe, it’s beautiful, the locals are lovely, the landscapes are diverse, the wildlife is exciting, and there are so. few. tourists.

I’ve got a dozen posts planned about my time in this amazing country, so brace yourself for an onslaught of information! By the end of the month, you’ll have everything you need to book a trip to this kickass country. And hopefully you’ll decide to do exactly that.

This is what it’s like to travel in Namibia.

Where is Namibia?

Let’s start off with a little bit of context. Where even is Namibia?

Namibia is a Southern African country on the west coast of the continent. It’s located above South Africa , below Angola, and to the west of Botswana.

Interestingly, Namibia is where you’ll find the world’s only quadripoint, which is defined as the place where the corners of four different countries meet. Yes, in the far north-eastern reaches of this country, Namibia nestles up against Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. There are over 150 tripoints in the world, but only one quadripoint, making this a very special place on the planet.

Unfortunately, it’s in a part of the country that few tourists choose to visit, at the eastern end of the Caprivi Strip, which is isolated from many of the main tourist activities. Somewhere that’s much easier to visit, however, is the Tropic of Capricorn! Most visitors end up driving past the iconic Tropic of Capricorn sign while driving around Namibia, and fortunately, it’s marked on Google Maps, so you won’t have to worry about missing it.

Namibia is the Perfect Introduction to Africa Travel

If you’re dreaming of travelling in Africa but have no idea where to go first, head to Namibia. It’s one of the safest and least intimidating countries I’ve travelled through.

One of my aims with my recent Africa travels has been to prove you can easily travel around much of the continent independently. So many people opt to jump on overland truck tours in this part of the world, but what I’ve found so far is that it’s really not necessary. And in Namibia you definitely don’t need to join a tour in order to visit.

With the exception of the bad roads, I found it no more difficult or dangerous to travel in than the U.S., Europe, or Australia. And when you’re traveling independently, you’re in control of your schedule and where you stay and what you do.

On top of that, the official language of Namibia is English, which makes independent travel even easier. You can ask questions, you can get directions, you don’t have to mime all the time… it’s all so easy .

Namibia also felt like the safest country in Africa I’ve been to so far. Outside of Windhoek, you really don’t need to worry about much at all. The locals are friendly and welcoming, theft is rare, and your only real concern will be how many flat tyres you’ll end up with on the seemingly-endless gravel roads.

Not only is Namibia safe and easy to travel through, but it also has just as much to offer as other countries in Africa. Head to Etosha National Park and you’ll get to drive alongside elephants, giraffes, lions, black rhinos, and more. You can hit up the Namibian desert for sand dune climbing at sunrise. There are beaches and coastlines full of shipwrecks to explore. The darkest skies in the world are in Namibia, so the Milky Way is always shining brightly above your head at night. Oh, and there’s a ghost town in the middle of the desert. Badass.

In other words: Namibia is the best!

Not Many People Will Know Where You’re Going

I couldn’t believe it: after six years of travel, Namibia was the first country nobody seemed able to locate on a map. In my digital nomad community here in Portugal — so, y’know, people who have travelled full-time for many years — a surprisingly number of people had never even heard of Namibia.

I get it: it’s a country that isn’t often spoken about outside of travel blogging circles, but it was still surprising to be met with blank faces when I spoke about where I was visiting next.

The bonus of this? Hardly anybody decides to visit the country, so there are hardly any tourists around!

It’s Ridiculously Sparsely Populated

Namibia is the second-least-densely populated country in the world, with an average of just five people for every square mile. And it’s easy to see why: desert takes up the bulk of the country and so outside of its short rainy season, it’s a very arid place.

This was one of my favourite aspects of travelling around Namibia, though: you could drive for four hours straight and not see a single human, car, or building over that time. As an introvert with a love of wide, open spaces, I couldn’t get enough of the isolation.

Planning Where to Stay Is… Interesting

Because the country is so sparsely populated, the majority of places you’ll stay at will be lodges that feel as though they’re in the middle of nowhere. Because they kind of are.

There aren’t many major towns and cities in the country — and honestly, the best parts of Namibia are outside of them — so that makes finding accommodation tricky. The best places to stay at are often hours from the nearest signs of civilisation and miles down a tiny gravel path.

I found booking.com  best for finding places to stay. First, decide on which major destinations you want to hit in Namibia. For us, this was: Windhoek – Etosha National Park – Swakopmund – Sesriem – Luderitz – Windhoek. Most of these destinations are so far from each other that you’ll have to break up the drive into two days.

Next, on Booking, search for all hotels in Namibia, and once you’re on the search page, click on view on map. Once you’ve got a map view of every hotel listing in Namibia, zoom in on the route you’re planning to take and see which lodges pop up close to the midpoint between two distances. We did this for almost everywhere we stayed in Namibia and found some incredible lodges as a result. In fact, some of the highlights from my time in the country were getting to stay outside of the main tourist trail.

And if you can’t find anything suitable or affordable on the drive, just googling “where to stay between Swakopmund and Sesriem”, for example, will bring up a ton of forum threads with recommendations from other people. Not everywhere is listed online, so there were a few places we had to book through email.

Frustratingly, It’s Tough to Visit on a Budget

In Namibia you have two options: expensive or camping.

I’m all about that budget travel life, but in Namibia I had to give up my aim of spending $50 a night on accommodation and quadruple it for much of our trip. Yep, almost every lodge we stayed at in Namibia was well over $100 a night, and we were nearly always booking the cheapest option we could find. And we were visiting in low season, where accommodation prices are around half what they’d be in high season!

Unfortunately, if you want to save as much money as possible on your trip, your only real option in Namibia is to camp. Most lodges will offer a camping option for around $30 a night, so if you’ve got your own gear, this is an easy way to save money on accommodation.

The only exceptions to the crazy prices are the cities: Windhoek has cheaper options  ($50 a night), and so did Swakopmund  ($40 a night) and Luderitz  ($50 a night).

Everything else wasn’t too bad when it came to price. Our rental car — a Toyota Corolla — had us up for $30-a-day, which is pretty standard for most countries around the world. Activities and entrance fees (around $6) were also affordable. Food could get a little pricey at the camps and lodges, which made sense because they were so isolated, but nothing was over-the-top extreme. We’d usually pay around $10-15 for dinner each night.

But the Lodges are Amazing

Some of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in are in Namibia. And while you’ll pay a lot for them, they’re worth every penny.

At Ovita Wildlife Restcamp , we fell asleep listening to hippos in the lake outside our room. At Vingerklip Lodge  (pictured above), we ate dinner on a towering cliff top, looking over Namibia’s version of Monument Valley. At Sesriem Desert Camp  (pictured above Vingerklip Lodge), we slept in luxury tents in the desert with wild oryx roaming outside.

I loved every single place we stayed in in Namibia, and even though they were ridiculously expensive, it felt as though we were still receiving fantastic value for money.

You Will Need Your Own Transport

Public transport doesn’t really exist in Namibia, so if you’re not going to take a tour, you’ll most likely need to hire a car. As for what type of car, it depends a lot on the time of year you’ll be visiting and how confident you are on gravel roads.

My Kiwi boyfriend grew up racing falling-apart cars on gravel roads in New Zealand, so he had the driving skills of a Namibian and we were happy opting for a tiny Toyota Corolla to make the trip for us. Guesthouse owners were always shocked to see us rocking up in it, but honestly, we had next to no problems with it. If you’ve got the cash, opting for a two wheel drive with higher ground clearance would be a smart idea, as part of the bottom of our car fell off on our second day of driving, thanks to all the rocks that had been flicked up into the undercarriage.

People advise to go with a 4×4, and especially if you’ll be visiting in the rainy season, but we decided against it for several reasons. First, it’s over double the price for a 4×4 (around $100 a day), second, being so high up makes the car easier to roll, and third, um, did I mention it’s expensive?

If you can’t drive? You won’t be able to visit Namibia without taking a tour or hiring a driver. You could take a bus between major destinations, but I believe you’d miss out on a lot of the wonderful lodges that make travelling in Namibia so wonderful. There are also reports of travellers rocking up in a hostel, getting together with a group of travellers, and car-sharing their way around the country, so this could be an option if you’re willing to take the risk of potentially finding nobody to travel with.

The Roads are So Bad

We drove 4000 kilometers in Namibia and probably only several hundred of them were sealed.

Yes, in Namibia, get used to urging your car over gravel, sand, rocks, and more. Because of this, travel days are long and bumpy — we rarely drove for less than six hours each day, and even listening to podcasts was a struggle over the crunching noises of driving over gravel while rocks pinged into our car

Get Yourself a SIM Card, But Expect to Rarely Use It

Getting connected is tough in Namibia, so if you work online like I do, resolve to spend most of your time on vacation.

Wi-Fi was sometimes around, was always slow, and often expensive. It’s worth getting a SIM card, though, as although we rarely got more than an EDGE signal, leaving our phones on while we were driving around usually meant we’d pick up a signal here and there to download emails.

We picked up a SIM card at Windhoek Airport upon arrival and it was super simple to do. The SIM card costs 50 US cents and 1 GB of data is a whopping $2.50. Too Many Adapters has a comprehensive guide for buying a SIM card in Namibia  if you need any extra information. When it’s that cheap, there’s no reason not to get one.

You’ll Get to Try Some Interesting Game Meat

One of my favourite aspects of eating in Namibia was getting to try so many of the delicious game meats on offer. The biggest surprise was warthog, which was delicious, but I also loved kudu, impala, oryx, zebra, and more. Most of the lodges will have some kind of unusual game meat on offer each evening, so it’ll be easy to access and you’ll soon grow used to it.

If you’re vegetarian, you’ll most likely struggle to eat super well in Namibia. Everything was very meat based at the lodges although bizarrely, Greek salads were available in basically every single restaurant, so you won’t have to go hungry. Just prepare yourself for a hell of a lot of feta cheese!

Namibia Has the Best Road Signs Ever

One of the highlights from our time in Namibia was the kickass road signs we came across while driving. The giraffe one above was one of my favourites. In addition to that, we saw signs for zebras, elephants, warthogs, and more. And even better: we actually saw some of those animals wandering around in the wild! There’s nothing quite like seeing a desert-adapted giraffe wandering through the sand.

The Bradt Namibia Guide is Invaluable

If you’re planning a trip to Namibia, you need this guidebook .

Not only was it essential for planning our trip, but we used it on an hourly basis while we were in country. When it comes to Africa, Bradt guidebooks are king, so don’t even consider picking up a Lonely Planet for this part of the world; almost all of them have terrible reviews as well as outdated and too-condensed information.

Because you’ll be unlikely to have data coverage while you’re driving, and sometime even in lodges, the guidebook made our trip so much less stressful. When we wanted to figure out which animal we’d just spotted by the side of the road, the wildlife section had a photo to help us out; when we decided to stop for a lunch break in a tiny village, we could look up if there was anywhere to eat, and if so, which place was best; when we were planning our driving for the day, we could look up route recommendations and find out which attractions we might want to stop at along the way.

I don’t often recommend using guidebooks (I think I’ve only done it twice before!) because I believe you can get a lot of the information online for free, but in Namibia, this guidebook definitely helps. We struggled to find detailed information about the country both before we arrived and while we were there, so our Bradt book was 100% invaluable.

Two Weeks is the Perfect Amount of Time to Spend in the Country

I spent just under two weeks in Namibia, and feel as though I saw almost all of the highlights. If I’d had three weeks, I would have spent time at Fish River Canyon in the south, a few extra days in Damaraland, and some time exploring the Caprivi Strip in the northeast .  Still, I feel as though two weeks is a good amount of time to dedicate to the country, which is refreshing as most places I visit have me feeling as though I need to explore for a minimum of three months just to start scratching at the surface.

I wanted to share my two-week itinerary here, because I feel as though I got it pretty close to perfect.

Day 1: Landed in Windhoek, picked up our rental car, and drove straight to peaceful  Ovita Wildlife Restcamp . You can read about my first day in Namibia in my article, The Perfect First Day in Namibia . Day 2: Time for wildlife! We drove north to Etosha National Park and stayed within the park at Halali . We spent the afternoon sitting at the camp’s waterhole to see if any animals emerged. You can read about my experience in Etosha National Park in the dry season: Desperately Seeking Elephants at Etosha National Park . Day 3:  For our first full day at Etosha, we drove around the eastern region of the park for almost 12 hours. We saw dozens of giraffes, zebras, and a rare black rhino, then spent the night back at Halali. It was magical. Day 4:  On day four, we opted to drive around the central parts of Etosha for the entirety of daylight hours, then switched up our accommodation to spend the night at Okaukuejo . Day 5:  For our final morning in Etosha, we decided to explore the western region of the park, then at lunchtime, drove to beautiful Vingerklip Lodge to spend the night. You can read about how incredible Vingerklip was in my article, Finding Paradise in Vingerklip: Africa’s Monument Valley . Day 6:  Day 6 brought a long drive to Swakopmund, where we spent much of the day on terrible roads. Still, getting to drive part of the Skeleton Coast was amazing, and we even got to see a shipwreck stranded off the coast. We spent the night in an Airbnb apartment. Day 7:  For day 7, we took a day trip out to nearby to Walvis Bay to see its seal colony, which is one of the largest in the world. You can read about this wonderful experience in the article, Seals, Swakopmund, and the Skeleton Coast . Again, we spent the night in our Airbnb apartment. Day 8:  We spent this day relaxing and exploring Swakopmund. You could use this day to get your adventure on if you wanted, as Swakopmund is the adventure capital of the world. You could try your hand at quad biking on the nearby sand dunes , for example. Once more, we spent the night in an Airbnb apartment. Day 9:  The following day, we drove to Sesriem and spent our afternoon climbing Dune 45. I highly recommend doing this, as we practically had the entire park all to ourselves. We slept at Sesriem Desert Camp , which was magnificent. Day 10:  We got up at sunrise to enter the park, climb Big Daddy sand dune, and explore Deadvlei. This day was spectacular and you can read about the experience in the article, Climbing Big Daddy: An African Travel Highlight . That afternoon, we drove south to Betta Camp to spend the night. Day 11:  The following morning, we drove down to Luderitz. We spent the afternoon exploring this adorable town and spotting pelicans as we drove around the areas just outside of Luderitz. It was a fairly relaxed day after all of the movement, and we spent the night at Kairos B&B . Day 12:  We saved the best for last, because for day 12, we drove to Kolmanskop at sunrise and and had the entire place to ourselves. Kolmanskop is an old mining town that has since been abandoned and is now being taken over by the desert. It was incredible and we spent a full three hours taking photos. I wrote about it in-depth in the article, Exploring Kolmanskop: Namibia’s Ghost Town in the Desert . In the afternoon, we drove to Maltahohe Hotel  to break up the long journey back to Windhoek. Day 13: Final day! Sad face. We spent this day driving from Maltahohe to Windhoek and left Namibia in awe of how much the country has to offer.

This was one of the best trips of my life and I highly recommend putting together a similar itinerary if you’re planning a trip to Namibia.

Yeah, You Should Definitely Get a Zoom Lens

The biggest regret of my trip? Not splashing out on a zoom lens for my camera and then getting uniformly awful photos in Etosha.

I ventured into Namibia with my Sony 28-70mm  lens and while it was absolutely fantastic for landscape photos, it was nowhere near good enough for the wildlife. Had my boyfriend not packed his 80-300mm lens, I would have had close to zero photos of any animals. Because we were in Namibia in the rainy season (more on that below), the animals at Etosha were hiding in dense grass and hard to spot, so it was rare for us to get up close to them.

If you’re going to Namibia and will be hitting up Etosha while you’re there, make sure you’ve got a decent zoom lens for the trip.

Get Yourself Some Excellent Travel Insurance

You know I’ll always yell at you if you’re dumb enough to skip out on travel insurance , but in Namibia, it’s an essential.

Why? Because Namibia has the highest car-accident death rate in the world, with 45 people killed on the road for every 100,000 citizens. On top of that, malaria hangs out in the northern parts of the country, and there are several other awful-sounding tropical diseases you definitely don’t want to contract. 

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Namibia. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

On top of standard travel insurance, you’ll also want to make sure you get some of the best car insurance money can buy. Most tourists get a flat tyre in Namibia at some point at a minimum (we got one roughly an hour from the airport on our final day) and replacing them/repairing the rental car can be pricey. We rented our car through  rentalcars.com , bought their insurance, and they refunded us for all of our car disaster expenses in Namibia.

You’ll Never Have Seen This Many Stars Before

Namibia is home to some of the darkest skies in the world , and I couldn’t believe how magical the night sky was. With the exception of the cities we stayed in, we fell asleep every night with the Milky Way twinkling above our heads. And with the lack of light pollution in the country, you didn’t even need to wait for your eyes to adjust.

If you’re all about stars, this is one destination not to miss.

I Loved Visiting During the Low Season

Well, low-ish season. We hit up Namibia in March, which is typically the final month of the rainy season.

We experienced just one hour of rain and the rest of our trip was full of gloriously blue skies. There were fewer tourists, prices for accommodation were almost half what they’d be in high season, and the weather wasn’t bad at all. I highly recommend considering a shoulder-season visit because of this.

Surely there has to be a downside? Yep. We struggled to see anything at Etosha. There are thirty-odd waterholes inside the park and during the dry season, they usually look like this:

Well, over three whole days of 12-hour drives, Dave and I saw literally nothing at any of the waterholes. Our waterholes looked like this:

We didn’t even see a bird.

The problem is: during the rainy season, there’s no reason for the animals to go to the waterholes because there’s water everywhere. And being on the tail end of that meant that instead we had to drive around in search of animals in the bushes. We didn’t come up empty handed, though: while we didn’t see a single elephant, we managed to see three black rhinos (super rare) and countless giraffes (my favourite animal).

It was funny, though, to have seen so many spectacular photos of Etosha before arriving, then to end up spending 90% of our time driving from deserted waterhole to deserted waterhole.

Have I Convinced You to Visit Yet?

I’m not exaggerating when I say travelling in Namibia is one of the best experiences of my life, and I can’t wait to start sharing every incredible minute of my time there. Next up: a detailed itinerary guide followed by dozens of stories to convince you to add Namibia to your bucket list! :-)

Have you been to Namibia before? Would you like to visit?

Related Articles on Namibia 💰 The Cost of Travel in Namibia: My Detailed Budget Breakdown 🦛 The Perfect First Day in Namibia 🐘 Desperately Seeking Elephants in Etosha National Park 🏜 Finding Paradise in Vingerklip: Africa’s Monument Valley 🦭 Seals, Swakopmund, and the Skeleton Coast 🥾 Climbing Big Daddy: An African Travel Highlight 🏚 Exploring Kolmanskop: Namibia’s Ghost Town in the Desert

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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100 comments.

I have never heard a bad thing about Namibia, and though we haven’t hit Sub-Saharan Africa, it would definitely be atop our list – maybe alongside Botswana? And on top of all you’ve listed, I’ve also heard that they have some decent German beer there since it was a German colony for a while. Any truth to that rumor?

There was *amazing* beer in Namibia! I’ve heard Botswana is pretty expensive and really tough to visit independently, but it’s very high on my list nonetheless. I know you guys would definitely love Namibia though!

Windhoek Lager (best beer in Africa)

Have you convinced me? Actually you have, I would have never thought of visiting there but it looks super amazing and peaceful! It sort of reminds me of Arizona. It sounds like heaven compared to NYC where I am currently at!

-Rachel @ Backcountry Petite

Score! I actually commented several times to Dave that I felt as though we were driving through the U.S. Southwest a lot of the time.

Great post, Lauren! I love all your pictures – especially the one of the night sky and the doors with the sand. It looks SO different than the places I’ve visited in Africa (Uganda and Zanzibar) that I’m very intrigued.

I think you’d love Namibia, Ashley! It’s very different to the other African countries I’ve been to, as well — so arid and empty!

Wow your pictures are absolutely stunning! Namibia has been calling my name lately but as you said it’s so darn expensive. Hopefully one of these days I’ll save up enough to see it. Did you find the food expensive even at local restaurants?

The problem was there often wasn’t any local restaurants. You’ll stay at lodges where the nearest town is several hours away, so you usually have to eat where you’re staying. In Swakopmund and Luderitz, food was slightly cheaper at around $8-10 per meal.

Wow Namibia looks wonderful! Thanks for writing this complete guide. Good to know it is safe. x

It really is the perfect introduction to travel in Africa :-)

Yep! I’m convinced! All I knew of Namibia was the rockin’ sand dunes. But with all this extra awesomeness (aside from the lodging prices) sound right up my alley! What city do you fly into?

I’ve heard of Namibia before, I’m surprised so many others haven’t. It looks wonderful! You have 100% convinced me!

I was there in march and I loved it. I highly recommend it to every one. It’s very safe!

Best regards!

Glad to hear you enjoyed it as well, Rui! :-)

You have definitely convinced me to go to Namibia. I had never thought of it before, but I think I will have to look into a bit now. Look forward to reading more posts about your trip.

I’m so happy to hear that! It’s definitely worth the visit :-)

I enjoyed the read! Amazing photos. Thanks for the tips <3

Glad you enjoyed it, Nadia!

I’ve been to Namibia on honey moon in 1995. Afraid to go back and see it changed. Apart from the occasion, it has been the most fabulous trip I have made. Did you miss the Skeleton coast?

We saw a small part of it while we were driving down to Swakopmund. Managed to see one shipwreck on the beach, but didn’t have enough time to get anywhere else. I would be interested to know if it has changed — it didn’t feel like the type of place that was changing quickly, but that’s totally just me guessing!

Namibia was my first ever solo trip abroad (around 8 years ago) and it was incredible. Yes the driving days are long but it is definitely worth it. The landscapes and hiking are fantastic, like nowhere else I’ve been, and the wildlife is so diverse. Other than South Africa I don’t know what country you can see penguins at one end and all the traditional safari animals at the other end. Looking forward to reading more posts to relive my trip/see how it’s changed.

Totally agree with you, Laura! I was surprised by how diverse the landscapes and wildlife were, and how empty the country the feels.

Looks and sounds like a great trip. Thanks!

It was amazing :-)

Wow, it really looks amazing. Must have been an incredible experience visiting the country.

As I said, the best trip I’ve ever taken. I loved every second I spent in the country :-)

I have to say Namibia looks amazing – it’s never particularly been on my radar, but it definitely is now! Looking forward to more posts on your time there. :)

I’m so happy to hear that, Clazz! It’s one of the coolest countries I’ve ever been to.

And great for children too. The number of ‘cute’ animals identified for airlifting to a proposed zoo in our back garden was extensive! Animals are everywhere: on the beach, by the side of the road, wandering around your lodge or tent. The whole family loved every bit of the holiday.

Ooh, I can imagine! I was filled with childlike excitement over every animal I spotted in Namibia.

I haven’t been before but you have me just about convinced! I’ve heard that the oysters from Namibia are something else as well.

Yes! Oh my god, I had the best oysters of my LIFE in Namibia!

Yep, I’m convinced! Everything looked amazing! Where did you flew from and how much did it cost you?

I flew from Portugal for $250 return with TAAG.

To be honest, this is the first time I’ve heard of Namibia. Probably because I’m from the other side of the globe.. or maybe I need to travel more! Nevertheless, thank you for this post! Very inspiring!

Well, you’re definitely not alone! But hopefully it convinced you to try to make it there one day :-)

Awesome photography. Thank you for sharing these amazing pictures and your experience in Namibia. I can’t wait to visit.

This place looks so stunning. I am one of those who had never heard of Namibia…..glad you shared this post. Thanks!

Glad you enjoyed it, Alex!

Namibia is terrific. I have been there only once but I still remember its beauty…yes it does gives you a lot of pocket pinch but then it’s worth it.

100% worth it!

I’m really excited to delve into the rest of your blog posts about Namibia. I have to confess I knew nothing about it before you visited but it looks like such an incredible country. Loved this introduction into what it’s like the travel there.

Happy to hear you enjoyed the post! Namibia is so underrated!

Namibia has been on my bucket list since I first set foot in Africa, After seeing your images and reading your blog I need to get there! Perhaps it will be the destination booked when I visit Africa again rather than the Safaris I did in 2010 or the Gorilla trekking in Rwanda! Great post!

I highly recommend it! :-)

Good to know, where would you suggest other than sousevlei and kolmanscop?

Walvis Bay, Vingerklip, and Etosha!

Honestly I don’t think it’s that expensive in the grand scheme of things. Sure, it’s not backpacking on a tight budget, but the prices aren’t that bad compared to the rest of the world. And if you compare what you get for the money with what you’d pay in somewhere like Australia, it seems like you definitely got your moneys worth.

That’s true. I guess the only problem is that there isn’t a super easy way to visit on a budget without missing out on a ton of awesome stuff. Most countries around the world will have hostels in most destinations. In Namibia, there isn’t really that option if you want to get outside of the cities and towns. But I agree: if you usually spend this amount of money in other countries as you travel, you’d feel as though you got a lot for your money in Namibia.

If Namibia is ‘Africa for beginners’, as is often said, what a wonderful place to start. Stunning photos, especially the view from the Sesriem Desert Camp. It’s perfect.

Absolutely! It was so easy to visit, and probably my favourite country I’ve now been to in Africa.

Fantastic post about a country I don’t know a lot about. Do they have a dress code in Namibia at all? Do women have to cover up while travelling in the country?

Not really. I would cover up my shoulders sometimes, but usually wandered around in a t-shirt and shorts. Almost all of the tourists I saw in the country were wearing shorts and t-shirts.

Wow it does sound amazing, how many days was this trip? My hubby turns 60 in October, after much nagging he has chosen Namibia.

Great decision! We spent 12 days in the country. Ovita for 1 night – Etosha for three nights – Vingerklip for a night – Swakopmund for 3 nights – Betta Camp for 1 night – Sesriem for 1 night – Luderitz for 1 night – Maltahohe for 1 night – drive to Windhoek and out!

Dear Lauren I am a Namibian, who often enjoys reading visitor’s blogs about my beloved country. It is always interesting to see Namibia through the eyes of other’s…..your photos and posts have been great fun to read. Thanks for the free advertisement……..might I add, Namibia is quite clean, it helps to have a small population density. Nonetheless, we do take pride in keeping it clean, hope you noticed that! Enjoy your travels, hope you make your way back here for an extended journey and with many other wide-eyed visitors in tow! P.S. the dust gets to me too!!! Regards Indileni

Yes, I definitely noticed that! I’m so glad to hear you’ve been enjoying my posts — it’s been a fun country to write about :-)

Hi! Looks like it was a great trip to Namibia. In search of things about this country I found your article. I am interested to go this year there. Can you tell me if you took pills for malaria or vaccine for yellow fever. Thank you

I took malaria pills for my time in Etosha. No yellow fever vaccine — they don’t have it in Namibia.

Hi Lauren, I’m currently finding out as much as I can about Namibia from books and the net, which is where I stumbled on your blog, which I’ve got to say, is excellent. I’d really like to hire a car and go camping, probably with a roof top tent, and only in campsites. My main concern is waking up in the middle of the night, wandering out to go to the toilet and having a close encounter with wild animals. Any advice? Thanks, Tony

It’s not my area of expertise, as I didn’t camp when I was in Namibia, but I’d imagine that you’d be okay in campsites. The animals are very spread out across the country, so it was extremely rare to see them while we were staying anywhere.

Your pictures are so amazing that I want to cry. This is on my list of possibilities for next summer. Thanks for the information!

Ah, thank you! It was easy to take great photos of such a beautiful country :-)

Thanks for a great blog series on Namibia! Great information and very helpful. I’m planning on doing a big road trip in the fall of 2018 and am really looking forward to it!

Sweet! You’ll have an amazing time, Rand :-)

I would like to drive myself through Namibia as I like the independence. However, I know nothing about mechanics and shamefully I’ve never been able to change a flat tire (I’ve tried but I’ve never had the strength to get the bolts off.). So is a tour package the only way to go for me?

You could look into hiring a guide to drive you. That’ll be cheaper than a tour and then you won’t have to worry about tackling the bad roads yourself.

Greetings for Oranjemund,Namibia Lauren,

Thanks so much for highlighting our beautiful country, I see you made Luderitz. Next visit head down to the deep South , Oranjemund was a forbidden town since 1936 due to the vast diamond deposits and only opened to the public towards the end of 2017. We walk amongst the Gemsboks in our streets down here. On the way to the beach last night, I had to stop and shout out the window at all the wild springboks hogging the road. They did not even scatter, but rather stood there giving me the evil eye…. Anyhow, Next time if you make it down here, give us a shout! Thanks again.

Ooooh, I would love to go! Sounds amazing :-)

Awesome read! Namibia is really one of the those countries people don’t seem to know about unless they’ve travelled to Southern Africa, or actually come from the area, like myself. ;) Well, South Africa, but I spent a good few years in that amazing country. Atleast South Africa gives you an idea of where it is directly in the name!

The endless nothingness on the roads is amazing, especially when you drive for hours without seeing a soul.

The amount of wildlife is another incredible thing about Namibia, unfortunate time to travel there in March, whilst you got to experience Nam at its greenest (or there abouts), the animals had plenty of watering holes to choose from, which is a pain when you want to see them ;)

For travelling during the low season, guided tours really are worth it, as the guides all communicate with one another and give each other live information about animal sightings etc. They can be rather pricey though :/

For anyone making a short trip, Erindi Private Game Reserve is a good stop, especially during the low season, the park is one of the largest privately owned reserves, but it is also tiny compared to Etosha, with a lot of the animals you could see in Etosha, the guides are very informed and make a real effort to get you to the animals you want to see (and the tours aren’t too expensive), it’s probably the most worthwhile 1 or 2 nights stay for anyone looking into some wildlife during the low season.

Otherwise, October/November is probably the best time to visit Etosha.

So I think the real question is, when are you visiting again? ;)

Amazing! Thank you so much for sharing! I’d love to get back within the next couple of years — especially because I need to have a better Etosha experience!

Awesome pictures that reminds me of my journey to Namibia although it’s been almost 6 years meanwhile… would go there again any time.

I’ve also published some of my black & white pictures in a Blurb photo book.

Maybe that would be an option for you as well? :)

For all the would-be tourists out there: I am a Namibian and love my country with all my heart! The reasons for my addiction to Namibia`s wild open spaces, spectacular scenery and incredible wildlife are numerous, but the ones standing out for me is the silence (you hear yourself breathe), the fact that you can stop anywhere alongside the road for a cuppa or to pitch your tent without fear of any danger (be it human or nature) and above all….the solitude! Take your 4×4 for an excursion into Damaraland and the Kaokoveld and have your soul completely rejuvenated! The friendly and helpful locals are just the icing on the cake – Namibia for ever. Hope to host you guys soon in our beatyfull paradise – so peacefull, quiet and serene.

Thank you for this post, Lauren! My grandparents lived in Namibia and I was lucky enough to visit them when I was 16. We stayed for 2 months and did a little bit of traveling. Now, 20 years later, I’ve been dreaming of a trip to Namibia with my 14 & 15 yr old daughters and decided to do a little research to see if it was still as empty and beautiful as I remember… From your post it looks like it’s still the perfect place to visit and I’m looking forward to planning a visit next summer. Thanks again.

I just came back from South Africa and that has made me want to visit Namibia. Your blog has now convinced me, although it seems like the dry season is best for animals. What’s the best way to get to Namibia? Is it best to fly to Cape Town and then catch a flight to Windhoek?

Either that or via Angola with TAAG Angola Air — they have some seriously cheap flight deals from Lisbon.

So glad to have come across this overview…

I nabbed a cheap ticket to Cape Town for May of 2019 and am planning on a 3-week Namibia road trip as the focus of my visit.

Looking forward to digging into the accompanying posts soon!

You’re going to have the best trip ever, Chris! Namibia is one of my favourite countries in the world :-)

I recall learning about the Welwitschia plant of Namibia while in school. Recently, an opportunity to travel to Namibia came up and I actually might be able to visit this intriguing country. This post got me even more excited. And the photos are crazy beautiful. thank you!

Oh, wow! I hope you do get to visit, Misael! It’s such a beautiful country :-)

I’m a bit worried that we haven’t booked enough in between stops for our upcoming trip! I have only allowed one day to get from Walvis Bay to Sesriem and one day between all our other destinations. Hopefully our experience of travelling in the Australian outback will help us in Namibia – we have driven over 1,000 sand dunes in our Simpson Desert and tackled corrugated roads like the Gibb River in the Kimberley. We have hired a 4×4 and will be camping – my only fear is meeting a lion in the shower when we do a side trip to Rooiputs in Botswana. I might just use baby wipes for those 2 days!

I have just come across this blog – and just WOW! Namibia looks amazing and the thorough description and itinerary is superb. I’ve recently watched Romesh Ranganathan’s Misadventures where he went to Ethiopia which is another astounding yet non touristic place that people would not think of visiting. I have travelled around the majority of Morocco in a 4×4 over a month and that wasn’t enough time. I’ve travelled all around Australia and NZ over a year – in the outback, NT and WA which have some similarities in terms of plenty of driving and not seeing anyone else for miles and plenty of unsealed road. Both in Aus and Morocco we didn’t seem to have problems with flat tyres but we were deflating / inflating when appropriate. Crazy how you did the trip in a Toyota Corolla.

Sorry for waffling on, I get excited with planning new trips – especially when you say you only need 2 weeks! Anyway just a few questions if you still remember from your time there – How much did you roughly spend during the two weeks, excluding flights, travel insurance, vaccinations. Although these details would be handy to know. – What was the heat like, was it still cool (ish) after rainy season? And were there places to buy / stock up on bottled water or did you kind of need to ration to make it to the next lodge or gas station. – What was the price of gas roughly? – Apart from flat tyres, did you have any major problems or was there anything you were worried out before you went or whilst you were travelling through the country – malaria, insects, the heat etc?

Maybe I need to check out your travel anxiety course again and stop asking questions and just dive right in. It’s been almost a year since I got back from Aus, so I’m gagging to travel properly again but still anxious about Africa. Thank you!

Your website/blog is a true gift. I stumbled on it while planning my trip to hike Hadrians wall and went exploring to see if you had been to Namibia. BINGO. You have an itinerary and everything I need to know for both trips. I can’t tell you how excited and fortunate I feel to have found this site. Thank you!!!

Hi Lauren…We are starting our “Journey Down That Path” yearlong family trip around the world July 1st. Our first month we are renting a 4×4 and touring Namibia.. It’s been on my bucket list since I gave up an opportunity to do Peace Corps work there in the early 90s. We can’t wait to experience all these sites. Thanks for your inspiration!

Hi Lauren. We are travelling to Namibia for the first time in October. I’m just wondering about travel injections. We will be getting Typhoid, Hepatitis A and advised to take Malarone anti malaria tablets as we are visiting Etosha National Park and staying outside of it at El Dorado Guest Farm. Is it necessary to get the rabies vaccine? There are a lot of dogs at this farm. Maybe I’m just being over cautious. Any advice would be greatly appreciated for first timers. Itinerary is arrive in Windhoek, drive to El Dorado Guest Farm in the morning, spend two nights there and then head southwards. Many thanks

I wouldn’t bother with the rabies vaccine. It’s highly unlikely you’ll even be bitten by a dog, and I can’t imagine the owners would be keeping rabid dogs on their property, either! You can tell when a dog has rabies, so the owners wouldn’t just let them hang around their other animals and endanger them and themselves :-)

I don’t see how you would get bitten because I doubt anyone would allow wild dogs roam free on commercial property. You would be fine, don’t just overthink it.

Great tips! In retrospect, would you have splurged on a bigger car better suited for the roads, are was the struggle with the bad roads in your little car worth it? And did you get any flats or have other car troubles?

There are definite pros and cons for each option. If we’d had a bigger car, there’d have been a greater chance of it rolling on the bad roads, for example, and they can be much more expensive to rent while also using more fuel. We really didn’t have too many problems with our car, so would stick with what we drove. We had one flat tyre, right at the end of our trip (on the first bit of paved road we’d had in a fortnight, haha), but it was no big deal. A local actually pulled over within two minutes of us stopping and changed the tyre for us!

If you don’t have much experience on gravel roads, maybe go for the 4WD option, but we didn’t really have any major problems with our Corolla. And the rental cars are definitely well-equipped for any flats you might have, with a spare tyre and a jack.

It just looks like the most beautiful country in the world! I can see why you loved it so much. I bet they’re probably doing ok with COVID with their population all spread out!

I spent 4 months in this beautiful country; 25 years ago. I would highly recommend Waterberg plateau, you would struggle to find a more stunning place on the planet. I will never ever forget this country, I have travelled around the world and visited some fantastic countries, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt, Namibia is by far the country that I will never forget. The stars, the sunset and sunrise, the scenery and the tranquility are my cherished memories.

Namibia has been on my wishlist for several years. You don’t mention renting the jeeps with tents attached. Are you familiar with this option?

Greetings from Canada, perhaps i missed this ,but what would you pack? i see you in jeans in pictures, certainly I dont need safari attire? off to Namibia in September.

Nope, no need for safari attire; I just wore my normal clothes that I wear at home! Jeans and a t-shirt, shorts and a t-shirt, a hoodie in the evening, etc. Everybody else that I saw was just wearing typical clothes, too — very casual. There’s no need to try to camouflage yourself from the animals in Etosha as it’s usually a dusty plain so everything stands out against it!

Hi Lauren, Great article, thanks so much. I was wondering if you booked your hotels before you left for Namibia or just booked as you went during your trip. I’ll probably just follow your itinerary, but I wasn’t sure if I should book ahead. Planning to go in May or June. Thanks, Peter.

I booked in advance. I don’t think any of the places I stayed in were fully booked but I was there during the low season. If at all possible I would recommend booking in advance, though! In some parts of Namibia, the accommodation is spread so sparsely across the country that if you turned up somewhere and couldn’t get a room, you might have to drive for an hour or two to get to the nearest property!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Namibia Travel Guide

Your ultimate namibia travel guide, with tips, things to do, and best things to see in namibia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Lions stalking Blue Wildebeest under the cover of sun-burnt savannah grasses. Desert elephants – smaller than most, and with unusually wide feet – adapted to the blowing sands of the Kalahari.

Termite mounds as tall as my house, and people that throw incomprehensible pops and clicks into their speech at seemingly random times . 

This Namibia travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Namibia

• Namibia power voltage is 220V 50Hz;  Plug D & M
• The Namibian currency is the Namibian dollar and is around 13 NAD to 1 USD.
• Beware of Chikungunya , a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. This outbreak continues to affect parts, Africa. Symptoms can take up to 12 days to appear but usually begin within 3-7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms generally include fever and joint pain; other symptoms can include fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and rash.
• Travelers spending a lot of time outdoors or visiting game parks have an increased risk of being bitten by a tsetse fly which can cause African Sleeping Sickness. Remember that these flies: bite during the day, are attracted to bright, dark colors and can bite through lightweight clothing.
• Namibia banks, as well as Wilderness camps, only accept US Dollars, GBP Sterling, Euro and South African Rand in cash. Travelers’ Cheques in any of the above currencies are also acceptable. MasterCard and Visa are usually accepted throughout Namibia.
• The water is not potable ; drink only bottled water.

Things to See and Do in Namibia

• Namib-Naukluft National Park:  Come to the largest game park in Africa. Included are parts of the Namib, the world’s oldest desert, as well as the Naukluft mountains. 
• Spitzkoppe:  Climb these granite peaks in the Namib desert. Featuring paintings created by the Bushmen, see art from the past while climbing the rock formations.
• Volunteer to work with  Cheetahs and wildlife conservation.
• Windhoek’s Christ Church:  Step inside this historical German Lutheran Church in Windhoek. Constructed in 1907, it is the oldest Lutheran church in Namibia and is considered a symbol of the city.
• Etosha National Park:  See lions, zebras, giraffes, leopards, and more at this national park.One of the best places to see wildlife, you can also head to the salt pan in the middle of the park, which is the largest one in Africa. Camping is available in the park. 
• Fish River Canyon:  One of the most popular places in Namibia, Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa and the second largest in the world. Go camping, hike through the Fish River Hiking Trail (53 miles long in total), or just take in unparalleled views of the canyon.

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Accommodation

Budget:  You can find a variety of hostels and guest houses for 150-450 NAD per night. These come with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, simple private rooms or dorms, an outdoor pool, and close locations to nearby shops and restaurants. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range, expect to pay around 600-750 NAD per night. These hotels come with private rooms, an outdoor pool, a casual hotel restaurant, free breakfast, and a lounge area. 

High-End:  For five-star hotels, you will pay around 3,500-13,000 NAD per night. Take in the best with private suites with flat-screen TVs and fireplaces, free breakfast, a hotel restaurant and bar, spa services, and activities like birdwatching.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com , Tripadvisor and  Air B&B  for the best deals on accommodation in Ireland.

colonial period. Oshifima (millet paste) served with meat and vegetables is a popular meal. Other common meals include oshiwambo (beef, spinach, and maize meal), braaivleis (meat barbeque), and potjiekos (meat, chicken, and fish stew).

Head down to the coast to get fresh seafood or look for street vendors that sell kapana (spicy meat strips). There are more restaurants where you can sample more Namibian cuisine. In total, expect to pay around 100 NAD per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Namibia

Getting to namibia:.

Flights:  There are 8 airports in Namibia, but the Hosea Kutako International Airport is the main airport to fly into and is 28 miles from the capital of Windhoek. You can check for the best flights to Namibia on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses:  Buses come in two main forms: the minibuses that go throughout towns or  long-distance buses that travel between cities and include meals. Reservations should be made at least 72 hours for long-distance buses. Travel from Windhoek to Oshakati in 10.5 hours for 450 NAD

Taxis:  Taxis are another way to get around. A typical taxi ride through the capital of Windhoek will cost about 12 NAD.  

Car Rental:  To rent a car, you generally need to be at least 25 years old and will need a U.S. driver’s license that has been valid for a year. Prices average at 1,070 NAD per day.

Uber:  There is no Uber, but there is the rideshare app Lefa, which operates similarly to Uber.

When to go To Namibia

The best time to visit Namibia is between July and October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant (high 60s/low 70s) and there is little rainfall, which makes it the best chance to see wildlife.

Where to Stay in Namibia

Avani Windhoek Hotel and Casino:   Centrally located with beautiful views of Windhoek with a Rooftop pool.

Hakusembe River Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia :  When in Rundu, stay at this great lodge. Relax in wood-furnished bungalows, sleep in canopied beds, dine at the riverside restaurant, swim in the outdoor pool, go fishing, take a champagne river cruise, or relax on the sun loungers. Kids 5 and under stay free. 

Protea Hotel by Marriott Walvis Bay :  Stay next to the Atlantic Ocean at this hotel. The Walvis Bay Train Station is just 7 minutes away on foot, which is perfect for those who want to explore more of the city. Or you can stay inside and enjoy free breakfast and Wi-Fi, a hot tub, golf, room service, and a hotel restaurant and bar.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com , Tripadvisor and  VRBO  for the best deals on accommodation in Namibia.

What to Pack for Namibia

The climate is typically semi-desert with hot days and cool nights. Midsummer temperatures may rise to over 40 degrees Celsius.

Winter days are warm, but dawn temperatures may drop to freezing. The coast is cool with low rainfall and fog that prevails from late afternoon until mid-morning. The rainy season lasts from October to April.

The rest of the year is dry and cloudless. Rejoice, Namibia averages 300 days of sunshine a year! 

• Waterproof bag  – the bag has two functions, protecting your stuff from the rain and also from the dust, especially if you’re travelling to drier regions.
• Footwear  – especially important if going you are heading on a safari! Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and also a pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can change into after a long day of sightseeing.
• Protection from the elements –  pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a loose sarong or wrap to cover yourself from the sun and bug-spray to prevent getting bitten by a mosquito (that might have malaria!)
• Layers  – pack the basic tropical clothes and make sure to include long pants, long-sleeve tops and some warm clothes for those chilly nights. Make sure to pack parka and scarf / gloves for winter
• Avoid packing dark colored clothes  – tsetse flies are drawn to dark colors, like blue and black clothing, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness. Stick to light, neutral colors but avoid packing white clothes as they will get dirty and dusty pretty quickly.
• Pack for Humidity  – for humid weather it is best to pack fabrics that breathe as much as possible and natural fabrics, like cotton, linen or rayon (avoiding silk, wool and polyester). Clothing should be loose and comfortable to encourage the flow of air and allow moisture to evaporate.

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel  &  How to Pack for a Safari

Namibia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Namibia Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Namibia  click here.

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What to Do on a Trip to Namibia — One of the Most Beautiful Countries in Africa

Namibia is a feast for the senses, with otherworldly landscapes, jaw-dropping wildlife, and beautiful luxury lodges.

Only in Namibia can watching a single elephant be far more powerful than witnessing an entire herd, and can staring out at a sea of sand feel like a religious experience. That's partially thanks to the otherworldly landscapes, which elevate every wildlife sighting and outing to supernatural status. On my recent trip to the sparsely populated African nation, I was awed by the simple act of a sole bull elephant strolling on an arrow-straight path across the sandy, dried Huab River in Damaraland, jagged mountains rising purple and blue behind his approaching and growing silhouette, slow footsteps eventually audible.

There's beauty in the minuscule and mighty alike in Namibia — a photographer's paradise, even for amateurs. While it's not undiscovered, wildlife-rich destinations such as South Africa, Tanzania, and Botswana typically seduce those seeking quantity. Wildlife here might be fewer in prolific numbers (though there's a healthy population of rhinoceros), but Namibia is arguably about quality over quantity, and colors so wild you almost don't believe your eyes.

The last few years have been huge for tourism in Namibia, evidenced by dozens of new luxury lodges and camps like Zannier Hotels Omaanda , Zannier Hotels Sonop , Shipwreck Lodge , Hoanib Valley Camp , the fantastical four-bedroom villa at the Sossus , a total rebuild of and Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , and Wilderness Safaris' Little Kulala renovation.

While adventurous road trip lovers can take on Namibia independently, the custom travel creators of Extraordinary Journeys are qualified to put together an epic itinerary and coordinate the logistics of charter flights. Leaving the details to them leads to exciting surprises, like a jaw-dropping Scenic Air flight from Swakopmund to Sossusvlei. From the air, you'll see where the dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean, colonies of seals frolicking in the scalloped surf, shipwrecks looming, and thousands of flamingos flying in a synchronized fashion. It feels like soaring above an entirely different planet.

"There needs to be some art and beauty in your world to really appreciate it," said Scenic Air pilot, Anthony, on our first flight from Windhoek. We were heading north to Onduli Ridge , but it felt like we'd landed on Mars. In reality, it was Damaraland's Doro Nawas Conservancy, which in some places looks like Joshua Tree on steroids.

"The roads are bumpy, but they say bumpy roads lead to beautiful destinations," said our guide, William, as we approached a futuristic circular lodge perched among massive boulders. He was right: Namibian conservation travel company Ultimate Safaris opened Onduli Ridge in April 2021, and it's a fantastical semi-arid oasis that's most striking as the sun begins its daily descent and illuminates the granite in bright orange.

From that wraparound deck, restaurant, and bar spreads a limitless, sublime expanse that's exciting yet calming. In the distance lies Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of evocative sandstone engravings done by the San people some 4,000 to 8,000 years ago. We searched for vulnerable Angolan giraffes one day, and desert-adapted elephants another, tracking sizable footprints before discovering a mama and baby nursing, playing and bathing in ethereal sand. I felt like a superhero riding an e-bike through the super-flat, highly textured landscape, and learning about impressive anti-poaching efforts, fairy circles, and local fauna and flora, like the euphorbia damarana bush (dangerous to everyone but rhinos). "Those [rhinos] are being protected like presidents," said William. The desert-adapted rhinos are another worthwhile goal requiring a dedicated, purposeful pursuit.

It's not all high adventure: Namibian-made gin and tonics are a must during jaw-dropping sunsets, which precede creative dinners. The gorgeous free-form pool might just be the most serene place in Africa, and the six luxury huts are wholly original structures, with bathrooms built around behemoth boulders. Turndown service takes full advantage of the suite's 180 degrees of louvered doors, and staff rolls the plush king bed out onto the panoramic wooden deck for nights spent under the stars .

The remote NamibRand Nature Reserve's landscapes are equally endless, nuanced, and vivid. Kwessi Dunes sits astride a wavy pink dune that provides ample opportunity for relaxed days watching iconic oryx (Namibia's national animal), dazzling zebras, a lone ostrich, and even black-backed jackals drinking in the watering holes by the elevated turquoise pool. The Natural Selection lodge of 12 thatched-roof canvas chalets is prone to unbelievable hourly changes, with the color palette stretching to include neon oranges, cotton-candy pinks, and eerie purples that get more saturated as the days wear on.

Quad bike outings, slow scenic drives, bird-watching, sundowner jaunts, and stargazing (from your outdoor shower-equipped chalet's second bed in Africa's first International Dark Sky Reserve) all lead to special, surreal moments. But a day trip to Sossusvlei in the UNESCO-protected Namib Sand Sea should be a part of every itinerary, too.

Spending time amid this natural wonder — a panorama of colossal coral dunes and salt and clay pans — is far more compelling than even photos suggest. The garland of sculpted sand is breathtaking in the truest sense, especially on the breathless hour-long clamber up a 1,066-foot tall dune called Big Daddy, which is like walking a tightrope made of the finest particles. Up I wobbled, placing my boots in my husband's disappearing footprints like a stair climber melting away. The black diamond-grade descent was even harder, like what I imagine walking in space to feel like. At the bottom, we saw the sun-baked white clay pan of Deadvlei, where ancient camel thorn trees rise like skeletons.

Less than an hour from Windhoek, the physically and spiritually unique Habitas Namibia , which opened in 2021 and marries the concepts of safari and wellness. Arrival involves warm hugs and intention setting around a clay pot of Himba myrrh. The vibe throughout the 15 tented accommodations as well as the bohemian main tent, restaurant, and pool is celebratory, wrapping art, culture, and music into an all-embracing sensory hug.

On this vast lowveld savanna, which is also a commercial farm being rehabilitated and rewilded, guides share knowledge — such as the fun springbok fact that they jump as a sign of happiness and fitness — while navigating roads cautiously. "You can't preach about conservation if you're going to forget about the little animals and their burrows to go see something big," our guide, Shaanika, told us as we gawked at two white rhinoceros through binoculars.

Some days at Habitas begin with hilltop yoga timed to the golden rising sun, while others wrap with meditation in the bush, followed by artisanal sundowners. Johannes, a San guide, tells stories over bonfires and enlightens guests on the tribe's hunter-gatherer practices during nature walks that are like mini survival lessons. Spa therapies incorporate calabash gourds, Eastern modalities, and red hematite body masks à la the iconic Himba women. Creative and local meals are each as nourishing and beautiful as the black wildebeests, giraffes, and elephants down the hill. At this lodge, elements of surprise are integral, joyful, and meditative all at once. Take, for instance, a thrilling music and dance performance by artists who drummed, stomped, chanted, and hip-shook their way against purple skies, melting our inhibitions and raising the energy level of the whole camp. This was the most liberating gift, a way to foster true connection — not just to Namibia's wilderness, but to the wild within us all.

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Namibia Travel Tips: 19 Things to Know Before Traveling to Namibia

Namibia is a country of extreme natural beauty. From the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the desolate, arid plains of the Namib Desert to the deep valley of Fish River Canyon and floodplains of the Caprivi Strip, the variety and dramatic nature of the landscape is astounding.

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However, Namibia is not a classically popular African destination and it somehow still sees far fewer visitors than its neighbour, South Africa. Still, traveling to Namibia is incredibly rewarding with awe-inspiring landscapes, abundant wildlife, friendly people and a relatively safe reputation. 

If plan traveling to Namibia, here are our top Namibia travel tips you should know before leaving on your trip. 

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Things to Know Before Traveling to Namibia

Namibia is in southern africa.

For many people, Namibia lives within the shadow by its neighbor, South Africa. It can be easy for some people to lump Namibia and South Africa into the same basket. But, Namibia is actually quite different and unique. 

Namibia is on the South Western Coast of the African continent and is bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Angola and Zambia. 

Namibia currency is Namibian Dollar

The currency in Namibia is Namibian Dollar. However, South African Rand is interchangeable and widely accepted. Some ATMs even dispense South African Rand instead of Namibian Dollars, so don’t be alarmed if that happens to you. Namibia is part of the Common Monetary Area with South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland, making it relatively easy in terms of currency exchange to travel across these countries. 

US Dollars are also accepted on occasion, although local currency is best. Credit card facilities are widely available and you should be able to pay most things with your credit cards, although it’s handy to keep some cash on you at all times. 

English is widely spoken

Namibians are impressively multilingual. English is a very common language in Namibia and you’ll find that most people speak it fluently. Surprisingly, German is also widely spoken. German colonists claimed Namibia as South West Africa in the 1880s and there is still a strong German influence in the architecture and language. 

People also speak a native tongue, as well as even Afrikaans which is derived from colonial Dutch and widely spoken in South Africa. 

Many nationalities don’t need a visa to enter Namibia

Foreign nationalities from Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, Canada, Japan and many European countries don’t need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days in Namibia. You can check online whether your nationality requires a visa or not. This makes it especially easy for crossing overland, if you’re exploring more of Southern Africa. 

If you’re crossing from South Africa in a vehicle, you’ll need to have a valid passport for the driver, vehicle registration copies, a letter of authority from the rental company and a travel insurance certificate (which you can get at the border itself). Otherwise, it’s quite common for travelers to be crossing in rental cars and is not usually a difficult process. 

Tap water is safe to drink

You might be surprised to discover that tap water is actually safe to drink in Namibia. This means you should bring a reusable water bottle so that you don’t have to purchase any single-use plastic bottles in the country. You’ll be able to fill up at your accommodation, including even camping grounds which usually have drinkable tap water available. 

If you’re still concerned about the safety of the water, we recommend that you bring along a purifier like Steripen . 

But, water scarcity is a serious concern

Water scarcity is a pressing problem in Namibia. The country sees recurrent droughts and rainfall can reduce dramatically by up to 50% between different years. Many of the large urban areas like Windhoek are frequently put under strict water restrictions to save the water reserves the country does have. 

As visitors to Namibia, you can help by being conscious of the water restrictions that citizens abide, such as shorter showers and not washing vehicles unless necessary. The tourism industry places extra pressure on resources and it’s important that you select eco-friendly accommodation options and places that have water conservation policies, such as water recycling. 

Namibia is pretty safe

“Is Namibia safe?” is one of the most popular questions for traveling to Namibia. It’s actually one of the safest countries in Africa to visit as a tourist. Namibians are friendly people and the level of corruption and crime in Namibia is lower than in many of its neighbouring countries. In saying that, petty theft and muggings do happen occasionally. Usually, this is at night and in the city areas, particularly Windhoek.

You should take normal precautions as you might when traveling to any other country, keep your valuables safe and be wary of getting around the city at night. Taxis are generally safe and are best to take after 9pm in Windhoek. 

It’s one of the least populated countries in the world

Namibia has the second-lowest population density in the world, after Mongolia, and with just 2.5 million inhabitants, the vast country can feel quite empty. Traveling to Namibia can be quite isolating for this reason and you might even go an entire day of driving through the desert without seeing another soul.

Most of the population lives in the central and towards the north of the country, with very few majorly populated areas. In a significant difference with many other countries, Namibia’s coastline is even more sparsely populated. 

The desolate and perilous coast of Namibia which is dominated by the Skeleton Coast Park and Namib-Naukluft National Park, are characterized by lifeless shipwrecks and vegetation, towering sand dunes and inhospitable terrain. The only major town on the west coast is Swakopmund. Other major towns and urban areas run up the centre of the country along the main road network. 

It’s not always hot in Namibia

The climate in Namibia is quite different from what most people expect. Although vast swathes of the country are desert, that doesn’t mean that it’s always hot. The nights can get quite cold, especially in the winter and drier months from May until October. 

In the hotter, summer months from November until April, the temperatures can be scorching, especially in the desert. This time also brings the summer rains which turns much of the country slightly more green and lush and even brings flooding to some northern parts. This is also when malaria risks are higher, especially around the north of Namibia and into the Caprivi Strip. 

Still, the elements in Namibia can be tough at any time of the year. The dramatic changes in temperature and the prevalent sand and dust, makes it particularly tough on your electronics like your camera and laptop. So it’s best to try and keep them protected as much as possible to reduce any build up of dust and grain – this was a bit of a struggle for us and is a common issue for keen photographers in Namibia. 

The best time to visit Namibia is in the dry season

The best time to go to Namibia is in the dry winter months from June until August, although the weather is pleasant from May to October. However, this also means that there are far more visitors and crowds at this time, especially in National Parks. With the higher demand, decent accommodation can also be difficult to find. 

However, this is undoubtedly the best time to travel to Namibia for wildlife spotting and game drives. Animals in Namibia tend to congregate around water holes and it can be much easier to guarantee to spot them in these drier months. 

Namibia is vast and requires some time to explore

Namibia might not seem like a large country, but it is vast and distances are long. At first glance, you might consider that a week is long enough to cover the main Namibia tourist places. However, with just a week, you would spend much of your time on the road or having to fly from point to point. You really need at least two weeks to see the best of Namibia but it is even better to have up to a month. 

There are very few domestic flights compared to other countries, with such a small population the demand for internal travel is low. Many of the best places to visit in Namibia are also quite remote and attractions are far apart, making for long days of driving. When planning your Namibia road trip, ensure you consider the driving time rather than the distance on a map, as the rural gravel roads can take much longer than planned.

Hiring a car is the best way to get around

The best way to get around Namibia’s long distances and remote roads is by self-driving. Hiring a car is certainly the best option if you have the time and want to get to as many places as possible. 

Namibia is one of the best places for a road trip. The roads are generally quiet and open with little traffic in much of the country. However, you have to be aware that there are many gravel roads and soft sand. This can pose challenges if you have never driven in such conditions before. Still, Namibia self-drive tours are very common and many travelers opt to rent a car.

READ MORE: Essential Things You Need To Know About Renting A Car In Namibia

Car rental is not that cheap in Namibia. The average price for a 4×4 in Namibia is around $100 per day. You can save a lot by renting a 2WD, and even more if you are looking for a regular compact car vs one with a higher clearance. 

If renting a car seems a little stressful for your Namibia vacation then you can always opt for a group tour with a company like G Adventures . This way all the logistics and transport can be taken care of. You can be assured that you’re in good hands with an ethical and pro tour operator like G Adventures. During our time in Namibia, we frequently crossed paths with  G Adventures vehicles, stopping at the same sites and visiting the same attractions. Their itineraries are well designed. 

Be prepared and self-sufficient 

The long stretches of road across vast landscapes without so much of a gas station in sight means you really need to be well prepared for any situation. We don’t mean to sound alarmist. However, it is a good idea to ensure you always have plenty of drinking water. Also, some food and snacks and at least half a tank of fuel at all times. We kept a gallon of drinking water and snacks in our car at all times. It gives us that peace of mind when we were traveling off the beaten path. 

If you’re self-driving in Namibia, it’s worth planning your days ahead. This is to ensure you know where gas stations are located and the distances you’ll be driving between stops. Have an offline map downloaded or a good old paper map, with your route and stops worked out.

It also pays to carry a spare tyre or two and know how to change one! One of the most common issues self driving in Namibia are tyre punctures. Especially in some of the more remote and rough Namibia road networks. The last thing you want is to be stuck on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere.

We were lucky and never ran into any trouble on our Namibia self-drive. But, we stopped to help out a few other fellow travelers with tyre changes along the way. It does happen more frequently than you might expect!

Staying connected is difficult

Sim cards are available for foreigners and it’s not a difficult process to get one. There are two network providers: MTC and TN Mobile. Although, MTC seems to have better coverage. You can purchase a SIM card from either of these providers at the airport. Or, at their stores in any town. 

MTC has packages that they call Aweh Gig , which for 35 Namibian Dollars gives you 100 minutes of local calls, 700 SMS and 1GB of data for 7 days. You can always add more data if you need it.

However, coverage is severely limited and you won’t get much signal past major highways and cities. Wi-Fi and the internet in hotels and lodges are also generally pretty weak. 

Traveling to Namibia really is perfect for digital detox! 

Seeing Namibia on a budget is tough

Namibia is not the cheapest country for traveling in Southern Africa. If you’re backpacking in Namibia on a budget, it will be tough to keep your overall costs low. 

In terms of accommodation, especially outside of Windhoek, you mostly have the options of camping or lux lodges. It’s not much in between. Even camping and self-catering can be quite expensive. Because, this requires car rental which can be up to $100/day alone. Also, the costs of fuel which can be around $200 for a 7-day road trip. However, self-catering will allow you to save money on other things like food. Food is quite affordable if you shop at local markets. 

When traveling to Namibia, the tour packages are also generally expensive. Activity costs are high with game drives and Namibia desert tours especially pricey. Those traveling on a budget are best off hiring a basic 2WD car. Don’t forget some camping equipment and planning to stay at budget campsites along the way.  

Namibia has a lot of wildlife

After reading so much about Namibia’s vast desolate landscapes, you might be surprised to learn that there are actually an abundance of wildlife there too. 

Etosha National Park is the big wildlife drawcard in Namibia and it’s one of the best safari destinations in Africa . The 22 750 square kilometre park is home to four out of the big five, elephants, lions, leopards and rhinos. It’s particularly known to be one of the best places to see the rare black rhino, black-faced impala and Damara dik-dik. The park is one of the top places to go in Namibia for most travelers.

With the more harsh climate in the country, you can also see desert animals like oryx, meerkat and bat-eared foxes. It makes Namibia safari tour quite unique. 

The far north-eastern part of Namibia, known as the Caprivi Strip, offers a different experience all together. It has heavy rainfall over the summer. Making it a much more wet area and home to a large population of hippos and crocodiles. You can even spot buffalo there, rounding out the big five game animals of Namibia.

Along Namibia’s treacherous coastline, you can find unique marine wildlife. The Skeleton Coast Park is home to 100,000 Cape Fur Seals , one of the largest breeding colonies of this seal in the world. In November and December, it’s even possible to see their tiny pups ashore.

Further south around Walvis Bay you can hit the water on a boat in search of whales and dolphins. Humpback whales as well as southern right whales and Benguela dolphins can be found off the coast in Walvis Bay in the winter months from June to November . 

Even further south in the Namib Desert, you can find a number of game animals, similar to Etosha National Park. You can also spot up to 150 wild horses that roam freely in the desert and are considered the world’s only desert-dwelling wild horses. 

But, it’s not the best safari destination

Still, Namibia is not the best safari destination in Africa. When compared to places like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti in East Africa and even in the Greater Kruger National Park in neighbouring South Africa , Namibia doesn’t quite have the density of wildlife that makes for easy animal viewing. The best chance of spotting wildlife is substantial to the dry season in winter when animals congregate at water holes. 

Namibia’s harsh environment and landscape also mean getting off-road is difficult. One of the main joys of safari tours is getting closer to the action by navigating the scrubland. However, this is quite rare in Namibia. 

Still, traveling to Namibia can still offer a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of Africa’s best wildlife. Safari is still one of the best activities in Namibia. It’s also possible to do a Namibia self-drive safari for little cost, with lower park fees than in South Africa which is great for budget travelers. 

Namibia is home to many tribes – even today

Namibia is home to many different tribes that represent the unique culture in Namibia. The most famous of these tribes is the San and Himba. The San or the “bushmen” are one of the oldest inhabitants of southern Africa. They have traditionally lived in the Kalahari Desert and in eastern Namibia. 

The Himba are characterized by their ochre painted faces and long braided hair. They are descendants of the older Herero tribe. Today, they live mostly in the northern part of Namibia in the Kunene region, which also goes across into Angola. We came across a few Himba people near Etosha, but it’s not typically where this tribe is known to reside.

When traveling to Namibia, it’s common for people to want to visit these tribes to try and understand the semi-nomadic lifestyle and unique culture of these ancient civilizations. However, the integration of the tourism industry into the lives of these remote tribes has caused some issues with so-called human safaris. It was for this reason that we did not seek out a tribe visit during our trip. We are unable to recommend one to others. 

Namibia tour operators tend to take tourists to villages and treat the people and their lifestyle as a kind of tourist attraction that forms a part of a package safari. If visiting the Himba or San people or any other tribe in Namibia is your interest, it’s important to respect their culture. 

Do not take photos of them without asking first. Rather, engage in some sort of conversation with them. It’s also best to find an ethical tour operator who also supports the community in some way. 

Traveling to Namibia is definitely worth it

Namibia is a very beautiful country with dramatic and extreme landscapes. It offers a rugged and exciting adventure with a desolate coastline and the world’s oldest desert. Also, Namibia have deep canyons, abundant wildlife and a rich colonial and indigenous history. It’s definitely worth visiting!

Namibia is one of the best countries for a first timer’s visit to Africa. Also, it’s one of the safest with decent tourist infrastructure and plenty of activities and national parks to explore. It might not stand out in Africa as the best for safaris, but its variety across many different aspects makes it a good all-round holiday destination. 

Have you ever been to Namibia? What other tips and advice would you offer to readers considering traveling to Namibia for the first time? 

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

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Traveling in Namibia: 11 Practical Tips and Handy Know-hows

#1 a pair of binoculars is indispensable in namibia, #2 the best time to visit namibia.

• #3 Namibia’s climate

#4 Is traveling through Namibia safe?

#5 tipping is customary in namibia, #6 payment methods in namibia, #7 starting your journey well in windhoek, #8 greetings in namibia may differ, #9 you need a special adapter in namibia.

• #10 Must do: Traveling with a 4×4 and Roof Tent in Namibia

#11 This is the ultimate travel itinerary through Namibia

Traveling through Namibia awakens all your senses. The country is perfect for an exciting road trip that allows you to see the most beautiful places in a short time. We embarked on an adventure with Namibia Nomads . With a rugged 4×4, you cruise through deserted landscapes where you occasionally encounter giraffes, zebras, or ostriches. Namibia’s landscape is mainly composed of rocks and stones, but surprisingly, each destination is completely different. From hundreds of meters high sand dunes to unique rock formations and deep canyons. In the most remote places in the country, you get to know local peoples and their traditional way of life. A trip to Namibia requires some preparation, so we have listed 11 practical tips and useful information below. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Namibia!

Namibia is a dream destination for wildlife spotting. We spotted a wide variety of animals during our safaris, and binoculars were essential for that. In the largest natural park, Etosha National Park, you’ll find many waterholes where animals come to drink regularly. The landscape is barren, allowing you to scan the horizon with your binoculars or observe the animals up close. This makes spotting easy and even more enjoyable. One of the most affordable yet good binoculars is the National Geographic 10×50. We had a lot of fun with it.

In principle, you can visit Namibia all year round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October. In these months, there is little rain, and the temperatures are mild. From November to April, Namibia can get considerably hotter, with a higher chance of short, heavy rains. These rains can sometimes cause small floods, requiring you to cross rivers by car. January and February, in particular, are wet months. One significant advantage of traveling during this period is that the nature is beautifully green. We were there in November and had great weather, with only a few showers.

#3 Namibia’s climate

Namibia experiences various climates, resulting in a wide range of temperatures across the country. The majority of Namibia has a hot desert climate, characterized by extremely low rainfall and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. During the day, the temperature in the hot desert climate can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, while it cools down significantly at night. Along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, a cool, foggy climate prevails. Destinations like Swakopmund and Walvis Bay have average temperatures around 22 degrees Celsius. There is often mist, and a refreshing breeze blows.

Clothing tip: In addition to lightweight clothing, pack warm clothing as well. Layers are great for cold evenings and for visits to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Don’t forget to bring a hat or cap for the hot desert.

Traveling through Namibia is safe. The country has a stable political situation and low crime rates compared to most other African countries. Windhoek is the only place where you should be a bit more alert, especially regarding theft. If you plan to drive a car through Namibia yourself, it’s essential to be prepared for possible car breakdowns. Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries globally, so you’ll traverse kilometers of empty landscapes. If you experience car trouble, it may take a long time before you receive assistance. Ensure you always have enough water in the car, and it’s helpful to watch a YouTube video on how to change a tire before your trip.

Giving tips is part of the culture in Namibia. In restaurants, you’ll typically receive a pen with the bill, allowing you to write down your tip. It’s customary to give a 10% tip. At gas stations, an attendant will fill your car’s tank and wash your windows. It’s customary to give a tip of 5 to 10 Namibian Dollars (NAD). When you go grocery shopping at a supermarket, there are always parking attendants in the parking lot who are willing to watch over your car. It’s customary to give them some small change in advance. Also, when you’ve been on a guided tour, it’s customary to give a tip of around 10%.

In Namibia, they use the Namibian Dollar for currency. You might not expect it, but you can use your debit card almost everywhere in Namibia. Often, even contactless payments work. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash just in case you encounter a situation where card payments are not accepted. If you’ve been to South Africa before and have some South African Rand left, bring it with you to Namibia because you can use it everywhere. This currency has the same exchange rate as the Namibian Dollar.

We have some tips to help you start your journey through Namibia on the right foot. Upon arrival at Windhoek Airport, you’ll see an MTC store. Here, you can buy a local SIM card at an affordable price, which includes some minutes, text messages, and most importantly, internet. This is especially useful for when you encounter car trouble and need to make a call, but also for various other moments when internet can be handy on the road. To withdraw local currency, it’s better to use an ATM in the city rather than at the airport since the airport charges a higher commission. LEFA is the local Uber in Namibia. Download the app in advance to quickly and safely order a taxi in Windhoek.

Restaurant recommendations in Windhoek: If you want to dine at a cozy, informal restaurant, Joe’s Beerhouse is the place to go in Windhoek. If you prefer something fancier, be sure to visit The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro. You’ll dine on a beautiful patio, enjoying delicious dishes and wines. It’s necessary to make a reservation in advance.

In Namibia, it’s customary to always greet with “Hey, how are you?” Whether you’re at the cashier in a supermarket or showing a ticket at the entrance of a tourist attraction, everyone will ask how you’re doing. Asking how someone is doing is a significant part of the greeting, and you’ll quickly find that it becomes second nature.

In Namibia, they have different types of electrical outlets, so you’ll need a type M travel plug. Keep in mind that most universal world adapters do not have a type M connection. Some hotels may have standard travel plugs available, but it’s good to have your own, just in case the hotel hasn’t considered this.

Tip: Bring a power strip with you to Namibia so you only need one type M travel plug and can charge multiple devices simultaneously.

#10 Must do: Traveling with a 4×4 and Roof Tent in Namibia

Namibia is the perfect camping destination due to its many unique campsites. You sleep in the most extraordinary places, right in the African wilderness. Just before you crawl into your tent, you’ll enjoy the clearest starry sky. As the sun rises, the sky turns beautiful shades of red and yellow, and the enjoyment starts all over again. We booked our trip with Namibia Nomads and can highly recommend it to anyone who wants to go camping in Namibia. The car, roof tent, and almost all the necessities are provided, so you can start your road trip without worries. You’ll receive a roadbook with useful tips and discover the most beautiful places in the country. Read about our experience with Namibia Nomads .

Namibia is indeed a perfect country to hop in a car and embark on an exciting road trip. In less than two weeks, you’ll get to experience the diversity of Namibia. You’ll drive past rugged mountain landscapes, endless deserts, and vast plains. Check out our travel itinerary for Namibia and learn all about the various destinations and highlights of this extraordinary country.

More on Namibia ?

Discover all our articles with tips, itineraries and things to do in Namibia.

About the author

Hi! We are Greg & Irene Two seasoned travelers who are crazy about adventurous journeys. Equipped with a camera and drone, we have been collecting the best travel tips for destinations from all over the world since 2014, and compiling them into useful articles. This way, planning your trip becomes a bit easier and more enjoyable.

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• Travelling in Namibia

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

By Devryn Panaino

Safari Travel Planner

Namibia is a vast country without many public transport options, so hiring a car is the best way of getting around. Namibia’s tarred and gravel roads are in good condition and are well maintained, making it easy to do a self-drive holiday.

It’s a good idea to have both a GPS (or offline map on your smartphone) and a paper map for navigating.

You don’t need to hire a 4×4 to drive around Namibia – 2WD vehicles can drive on the gravel roads – but it’s preferable to have a car with high ground clearance, especially for the ungraded dirt secondary roads.

If you’re traveling in Namibia’s more remote regions, such as the Skeleton Coast National Park, Kaokoveld, and Damaraland, you’ll need a 4×4. You’ll also need a 4×4 to explore Khaudum National Park, Nkasa Rupara National Park, and parts of Bwabwata National Park in the Zambezi Region.

Some car rental companies offer vehicles fully kitted out for camping trips , with rooftop tents, freezers, gas cookers, camping chairs and tables, sleeping bags, jerry cans, and cooking sets.

Namibia has one of the world’s highest rates of road accidents, and it’s recommended to take out fully comprehensive insurance to cover you for any damage or accidents that may happen during your trip.

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With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect african safari for your adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular namibia safaris, these recommended tours for namibia can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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• Why Namibia
• Namibia in January
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• Namibia in March
• Namibia in April
• Namibia in May
• Namibia in June
• Namibia in July
• Namibia in August
• Namibia in September
• Namibia in October
• Namibia in November
• Namibia in December
• Central Namibia
• Erindi Private Game Reserve
• Etosha National Park in Namibia
• Fish River Canyon
• Namib-Naukluft National Park
• Northern Namibia
• Sossusvlei in Namibia
• Southern Namibia
• Swakopmund in Namibia
• Adventure Activities in Namibia
• Camping in Namibia
• Cultural Tours in Namibia
• Fishing in Namibia
• Hot Air Balloon Rides over the Namib Desert
• A Foodie Holiday in Namibia
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• A Relaxed Safari Holiday in Namibia
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• A Luxury Namibia Safari
• Affordable Safari in Namibia
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• Best Time to go to Namibia
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• Highlights of Namibia
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Namibia travel tips: practical tips for traveling Namibia

Written by Maartje

Namibia is one of the most beautiful travel destinations we ever visited. It’s perfect for a self-drive safari at of the best wildlife parks in Africa, but you will also encounter the most special natural phenomenon. From the largest seal colony in Africa and the endless sand dunes in the Sossusvlei to one of the largest canyons in the world . Start your travel preparations for this bucket list trip with these practical Namibia travel tips.

Read more to prepare for traveling Namibia:

• Namibia itinerary: the perfect self-drive road trip route

Don’t miss these natural phenomena in Namibia

• Tips for renting a car and driving in Namibia
• Why we wouldn’t recommend backpacking Namibia (+ tips if you do and our travel budget)

14 Namibia travel trips

#1 is namibia safe to travel.

We never felt unsafe while traveling in Namibia. The population is extremely friendly and helpful. The wild animals will not pose any danger and if you decide to go wild camping in Namibia , just make sure to know how to do so safe. The most important factor to consider for your safety in Namibia is the vastness of the country and having car trouble with your rental car in the middle of nowhere.

Read more : we wrote an extensive blog about road tripping Namibia . About road safety, what to do when your car breaks down, what to always bring with you (spoiler: water!) and tips for renting a car.

#2 What is the best travel time for Namibia?

The high season of Namibia is from July to October, when the temperatures are not too hot. Guide books say there are animals at the waterholes in the national parks during that time of the year as well, making it easier to spot wildlife on your Namibia safari.

That being said, we traveled to Namibia in January and never regretted it. It was hot, so we did skip some long hikes. But spotting animals wasn’t difficult at all at that time of the year. In fact, it was baby time in Etosha National Park so we saw baby elephants, zebras, lions and more! And the low season of any country also comes with lower prices and fewer visitors at the big Namibia tourist attractions . We also had the advantage that we didn’t need to book any campsites or lodges in advance.

#3 Do you need a travel adaptor for Namibia?

You’ll probably need a travel adapter for Namibia. The power plugs in Namibia are type M or D. We had completely forgotten about this, but found a travel adapter in Windhoek quite easily. But as shops aren’t always around in sparsely populated Namibia, we recommend bringing one from home.

If you travel by rental car and go camping as we did, it is good to bear in mind that your car won’t have a power plug of course. It’s not very comfortable charging your phone or other devices, leaving them around the power pole. So we brought a converter with us to charge our devices in the car while driving.

#4 What about malaria in Namibia?

We were told that malaria is not a danger in Namibia. Malaria would only occur north of Etosha National Park and travelers rarely visit this part of the country. Make sure to get malaria advice from a travel clinic before traveling to Namibia.

#5 Do you need a visa for Namibia?

You don’t need to arrange a visa for Namibia in advance. If you are traveling for less than 90 days to Namibia, a visa is not required. It’s the same in neighboring Botswana, which is often combined with Namibia in one trip. You will get a sticker in your passport upon entering the border in Namibia.

Your passport must be valid for another six months upon arrival in Namibia. Other documents, such as proof of an exit ticket, may also be requested at the border. Check this in advance and bring it with you to be on the safe side.

#6 Which vaccinations are required for Namibia?

No vaccinations are required, but DTP and Hepatitis A are generally recommended by the Dutch travel clinics. A yellow fever shot is mandatory if you travel from an area with yellow fever, we were told. Check in advance with your travel clinic which vaccinations are recommended for you.

#7 What do locals eat in Namibia?

You won’t find many restaurants in a sparsely populated country like Namibia, but if you do visit a restaurant, you should not be surprised to see zebra, kudu and oryx on the menu. You can also buy those kinds of animals at the supermarkets. An affordable bell pepper, on the other hand, is a lot harder to find. That feels strange but is understandable in a desert country with wildlife but without many opportunities to grow vegetables on a large scale.

Barbecuing is also a favorite activity in Namibia, or rather: a so-called ‘braai’. We have slept on the most primitive camping spots where there was no shower or toilet, but it always had a braai.

What also surprised us: you can drink the tap water in Namibia! We do not often see this outside our home country (Netherlands) and we did not expect this in an African country at all.

Read more: 12 ways in which Namibia surprised us

#8 What is the currency in Namibia?

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian dollar. But don’t be surprised if the ATM will hand out South African rand: those currencies are linked. So you can actually pay with South African money in Namibia. Sounds crazy, but it’s not a scam.

It’s also good to know that you can pay with your creditcard almost anywhere. When traveling we usually carry a wallet with cash, but in Namibia you can usually pay with your debit or credit card. From the campsites to the national park park gate, debit card payments are accepted almost everywhere.

#9 What time zone does Namibia use?

Namibia is +2 GMT, so the same as South Africa.

#10 What is a good travel itinerary for Namibia?

Your Namibia trip will probably start in Windhoek, as it has an international airport. For a trip around Namibia, you have roughly two choices if you have two to three weeks of travel time: you either visit the north and the Caprivi Strip, or you make a tour skipping the Strip.

We chose the second option as we also wanted to visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop and the impressive Fish River Canyon in the south, while we were less interested in more safari time at the Caprivi Strip. Check out our blog about the perfect Namibia itinerary for more details and a useful map of the route.

#11 Where are the beaches in Namibia?

Namibia is located on the coast, so there is a stretch of coastline full of beaches. Just don’t think this means Namibia is the perfect beach destination, as most coastal areas don’t have comfortable beaches at all.

We camped in Torra Bay on the Skeleton Coast , which is the most perfect beachside campsite. Sebastiaan dared to even swim in the ice-cold ocean, but I just couldn’t. Swakopmund has the best beaches in Namibia. Those are the kind of sand beach you’re looking for when planning a day at the beach, but keep in mind the ocean is extremely cold here as well. Swakpomund even has its own beach bar: Tiger Reef Beach Bar & Grill, right next to the Swakopmund camping Tiger Reef Campsite.

#12 Can you go backpacking Namibia?

We think a rental car is essential for traveling around Namibia. The only good alternative is a group trip, but we prefer to travel without a group. Public transport in Namibia is not widely available and will certainly not take you to all the big tourist attractions in Namibia . There is a train track through Namibia, but the train would also take you to the more central points in the country and not to the tourist highlights.

Read more: why we wouldn’t recommend backpacking Namibia , including tips if you decide to do so and a breakdown of our travel budget

#13 Would we recommend camping in Namibia?

Absolutely yes! Lodges in Namibia can be quite pricey, especially in high season. Camping is a more budget-friendly option, but also a more adventurous way to spend your nights. We traveled the country with a 4×4 with a rooftop tent and set up our tent at the most beautiful places. We stayed at camping sites with the best views: near a waterhole in Etosha National Park , on the Brukkaros volcano and on the Skeleton Coast . Traveling around with a 4×4 and camping were actually the highlights of our Namibia trip.

Read more: everything about camping in Namibia and the best camping sites in Namibia .

#14 What is a normal travel budget for Namibia?

Your travel budget will depend on whether you choose an organized group tour or a self-drive road trip around Namibia. We prefer the second and would go for a road trip our second time in Namibia as well. We give you plenty of tips in our Namibia blogs for traveling around the country by yourself.

If you make the same choice, your biggest expenses will be your airline tickets and your rental car with gas. Prices for anything, also for rental cars, are much lower in the low season, so consider this deciding what time of the year to visit Namibia. We spent € 3,300 for two people and more than three weeks in the low season, excluding flight tickets. We give a break down of our travel budget , explaining to you in detail how we spent our money and what were the exact costs of our rental car.

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Travel Advisory November 27, 2023

Namibia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to crime.

Exercise increased caution in Namibia due to crime .

Country Summary : Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is increasingly common, and these can violently escalate into robberies and muggings. There is a higher risk of crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Namibia.

If you decide to travel to Namibia:

• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Do not display large amounts of cash or other valuables.
• Keep car doors locked and windows shut at all times.
• Be cautious of people appearing to request assistance by the side of the road.
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public places or inside a bank or other business and be cautious of anyone offering assistance in using the ATM.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and Namibian visa or entry stamp (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Namibia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

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Not required for stays of 90 days or fewer per calendar year

Yellow fever, if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country

Not applicable

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy windhoek.

14 Lossen Street, Ausspannplatz Windhoek, Namibia Telephone:  +(264) (61) 295 8500 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(264) (61) 295 8500 Fax:  +(264)(61) 295-8603 Email:   [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry: 

• Passports must have at least six months of validity remaining beyond your planned date of departure. At least three completely blank pages are required for entry. If you are traveling with minor children to Namibia, be aware that additional documentation is required.   
• Tourists visiting Namibia for fewer than 90 days per calendar year are not required to obtain a visa in advance of their arrival. All other visa types (e.g., student, work, volunteer, etc.) must be obtained from the nearest  Namibian embassy or consulate before travel. Visit the Namibian Embassy’s website for the most current visa information.  
• Upon arrival, check your admission stamp before leaving the immigration counter to ensure that the stamp is valid for the length of your intended stay (up to 90 days) or transit through Namibia and that immigration officials have given you a correctly dated entry stamp, as this stamp will be checked upon departure. Overstaying the time granted or having an incorrect or missing entry stamp can result in detention, arrest, and fines. 
• Travelers to Namibia are not required to produce a negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR test result or proof of vaccination.
• World Health Organization (WHO) card with yellow fever vaccination if traveling from a  yellow fever endemic country.  Check the  CDC Yellow Book  for further information. 

Parents traveling to Namibia with minor children  should be prepared to produce unabridged birth certificates for their children demonstrating their parental relationship. Birth certificates should be original or certified copies of the original. When one parent is traveling alone with a child, he or she should present the unabridged birth certificate, plus a notarized consent from the other parent listed on the birth certificate authorizing him or her to enter/depart from Namibia with the child. Alternatively, the parent could also present a court order granting him or her full legal custody of the child, or the death certificate of the other parent named on the birth certificate. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of Namibia. Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Road Travel:   Namibia has thousands of miles of unpaved roads. Road accidents, particularly on gravel roads, pose the most serious threat to visitors. Many gravel roads are well-maintained and can provide unaccustomed drivers a false sense of security, with road conditions shifting dramatically in certain areas. See recommendations below on road safety in Namibia. 

Crime:   Non-violent crimes of opportunity are the most common incidents reported by foreigners and include pick pocketing, purse snatching, ATM card skimming, and vehicle thefts and break-ins. Criminals sometimes brandish knives and guns. Violent crimes, including murder and rape, and property crimes increased in Windhoek over the last year. Robberies occur at roadside rest stops. 

• Dress conservatively. 
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, and displaying cash and valuable personal property. 
• Make sure your hotel room or residence is well secured, including windows. 
• Keep your credit card in your sight at all times while it is being processed. Consider using prepaid credit cards with limited funds when traveling. 
• Take rest breaks in towns and/or at gasoline stations. 

Transport crimes:  Violent assaults on taxi passengers are known to occur; petty theft is prevalent and occurs on trains, buses, and in taxis. 

• Be aware of criminals using remote key fobs to unlock vehicle doors in parking lots. 
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed. 
• Keep valuables out of sight and do not use cell phones or laptops while stopped in traffic; bandits may use smash and grab tactics to steal valuables. 
• Hire taxis through a hotel or retain the services of a reputable private transport company. 

Checkpoints:  The police maintain checkpoints approximately 9 miles (15 km) outside of main cities and all major highways. During the holiday season, additional checkpoints may be established along the Windhoek-Swakopmund highway (B1). 

• Remain inside your vehicle with doors locked and open the window slightly to communicate. 
• Be prepared to produce vehicle registration documents, personal identification (passport, Namibian identification cards), car rental contracts, and/or drivers’ licenses. 
• Proceed only when waved through. 

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information. 

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (264) (61) 295-8522. 

Tourist Protection Units (TPUs) assist tourists victimized by crime in Windhoek and Swakopmund. 

Please contact: 

• Tourist Protection Unit – Windhoek (Windhoek Main Police Station) at + (264) (61) 209-4345 or + (264) (81) 615-4401. 
• Tourist Protection Unit – Swakopmund at + (264) (64) 415-060. 
• The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund at 081 9682 can help with ambulances, police, and rescue services. 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

We can: 

• Help you  find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in  reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms 
• Provide a  list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an  emergency loan  for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Replace a  stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism:   The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.   

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. 

Diamonds:  Do not purchase diamonds and other protected resources outside of licensed retail establishments. If you are convicted of illegally dealing in diamonds, you can face up to 20,000 U.S. dollars in fines and/or five years in prison.  

Wild animal parts:  Unlicensed purchase of or trading in endangered wildlife parts, such as ivory and rhino horn, is illegal and carries severe penalties including fines up to 1.1 million U.S. dollars and 15 years in prison. Furthermore, it is illegal to kill or capture any protected wild animals without appropriate permits.  

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information. 

Photography:  It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure, such as ports, train stations, airports, and along border areas. You could be fined, have your photographic equipment confiscated, and risk detention and arrest. Do not take photos of people without their permission. 

Phone Service:  Cellular phones are the norm, as landlines are only in urban areas. It is possible to purchase a SIM card locally and use a U.S.-compatible cell phone. 

Currency:  The Namibian dollar (NAD) is the official currency. It is pegged to the South African rand, which is also legal tender in Namibia. Carefully inspect ATMs for skimming technology before using. Credit cards are generally accepted. 

Wild Animal Parks : Heed all instructions given by guides or trackers. Use common sense and maintain a safe distance when approaching wildlife. Even in the most serene settings wild animals pose a lethal threat. Lions, leopards, elephants, oryxes, rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles have critically injured and killed individuals in the region. 

Baboons live throughout Namibia and commonly scavenge the belongings of travelers. Baboons in camping areas are quite bold in approaching and taking items that interest them; they can be aggressive.  Keep your belongings and food in secure containers. 

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information. 

Adventure activities:  Climbing areas, 4X4 trails, hiking trails, and rivers are unpredictable and dangerous. They are often located in isolated areas without access to communications and away from any medical assistance. Dozens of people, including U.S. citizens, have been injured or drowned. 

• Leave a copy of your identification, travel documents, and an itinerary with the hotel reception desk when you go on excursions to assist police/rescue teams in the event of a problem. 
• Bring sufficient water and supplies, including a satellite phone preprogrammed with emergency numbers. 
• Provide a detailed travel plan and return date to family and friends in the United States before your excursion. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details: 

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports 
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports 
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Homosexuality is not illegal but sodomy between men is criminalized, though the ban is not enforced. Many Namibians consider all same-sex sexual activity taboo. 

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details. 

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Namibia prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and information to services. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication and general infrastructure. Contact the US Embassy in Namibia to receive a list of providers. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers:  There are frequent reports of rapes, particularly in informal settlements. Only a small fraction of rape cases are prosecuted and fewer still result in conviction. Gender-based Violence Protection Units intervene in cases of domestic violence, which is widespread. Units are staffed with police officers, social workers, legal advisors, and medical personnel trained to assist victims of sexual assault. A privately run shelter operates in the Khomas region and there are government shelters in other regions. 

See our travel tips for Women Travelers . 

Consult the CDC website for Namibia prior to travel. 

Medical facilities in the capital of Windhoek and in large towns are capable of providing emergency care and performing many routine procedures. Doctors and dentists are generally well-trained. Well-equipped facilities are rarely available in smaller towns. Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Be sure to verify with the Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that your medications are legal before you travel. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. 

The following diseases are prevalent: 

• Malaria  
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Yellow Fever
• Leptospirosis
• Schistosomiasis
• African Tick Bite Fever
• Chikungunya
• Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever
• Leishmaniasis
• Ross River Virus Disease
• Rift River Valley
• Tuberculosis

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.  

HIV/AIDS: The United States works in partnership with the Government of Namibia to fight HIV/AIDS while promoting sustainable national ownership and leadership of HIV/AIDS programs. (Through PEPFAR, USAID and the Ministry of Health and Social Services). PEPFAR is the largest commitment by a single nation towards an international health initiative and in Namibia, PEPFAR has contributed over US$1.1 billion for HIV/AIDS activities since its inception in 2003.  

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Namibia. 

For emergency services in Namibia, dial Police; +264(63)10111. E-Med Rescue 24, dial 081 924 (from Cell), 061 411 600 (landline); AEMS Ambulance Services, dial 081 963 (from Cell), 061 300 118 (landline). 

Ambulance services are: 

• not widely available, particularly outside of major cities, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. 
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. Response times for ambulance services could be up to twenty minutes. 

Vaccinations:

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.  

The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the Spring. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema; 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Health facilities in general

• Adequate health facilities are available in city and other major cities but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. 
• Hospitals and doctors usually require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.  Some hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient. 
• Medical staff may speak little English outside of Windhoek, especially in rural areas. 
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery 

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Namibia. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Namibia. 
• Persons traveling to Namibia for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Check the Government of Namibia’s website for more information. 

Pharmaceuticals

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.   

Water Quality

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 
• Many cities in Namibia are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickenss, and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes .  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Most major roads are generally well maintained, though many rural roads are gravel and fatal accidents are not uncommon. (The road from Windhoek to Swakopmund is paved, but also the site of many fatal accidents, particularly between Usakos and Arandis).  Tourists are often involved in single vehicle roll-over accidents. Sand, salt, and gravel roads become very slippery when wet and more dangerous at night. Animals easily visible by day become treacherous hazards in roadways at night. Do not exceed 45 mph (80km) on gravel roads. Many rental vehicle agencies void insurance policies if an accident occurs while speeding. Tire punctures are common as are accidents involving drunk drivers. Other driving hazards include excessive speed, lack of street lighting and shoulders, inadequately maintained vehicles, erratic driving habits, and pedestrians. 

The Embassy does not recommend traveling after dark anywhere outside Namibia’s cities. Travel in desert areas or via the Trans-Caprivi Highway between Rundu and Katima Mulilo should only be undertaken during daylight hours. Carry water, additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Fuel availability can be sporadic. Professional roadside assistance outside Windhoek or off main roads is unreliable or non-existent. 

Traffic Laws:  Traffic drives on the left. You may use a U.S. license for up to 90 days or obtain an international driving permit prior to leaving the United States through either the American Automobile Association or the American Automobile Touring Alliance. It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Seat belts are required for all vehicle occupants. Motorcyclists are required to wear protective helmets. You may face a charge of culpable homicide if you are driving and are involved in an accident resulting in death. 

Motorcades:  Pull to the side of the road as far as possible and promptly follow instructions given by the officials present. 

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is not widely available outside the capital. Taxis and municipal buses are the only forms of public transportation in Windhoek. Schedules and routes are limited. 

Avoid the use of public transportation and hire private transport from a reliable source. Any form of public transportation is unregulated, unreliable, and generally unsafe. 

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Namibia’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Taxis:  The Embassy has received reports of foreign citizens being robbed by drivers of taxis hailed on the streets of Windhoek. Car rentals or radio taxis (taxi service called in advance through established companies) are generally the best means of transport but may be more expensive. The Embassy has not received any such crime reports regarding radio taxis. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid hitchhiking in Namibia due to the high level of personal risk. 

Most insurance policies will not cover accidents that do not involve other vehicles or animals. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Namibia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Namibia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Namibia should also check for U.S.  maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  select “broadcast warnings”. 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Namibia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• National Geographic
• national heritage
• national heritage council
• national monuments
• national park
• national parks
• national theatre of namibia
• natural resources
• Natural splendor
• Naturally Namibia
• Nature conservation
• Nature photography
• Nature Reserve
• Naukluft Mountains
• naukluft park
• ndhovu safari lodge
• netumbo nandi-ndaitwah
• new crab species
• nice restaurant
• Nkasa Rupara National Park
• nocturnal species
• nomadic writer
• Norbert Jürgens
• north-central
• northeast namibia
• northern namibia
• O&L Leisure
• off the beaten track Namibia
• off-roading
• oil processing
• okahandja cultural village
• okavango delta
• okavango river
• okavango river basin
• Okerfontein
• Olga Tjiueza
• olifantsrus
• OLIFANTSRUS – ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
• omaruru artist trail
• omaruru artists trail
• omaruru region
• omba arts and crafts
• omba arts trust
• Omuhonga River
• omuntu gardens
• Ondili Lodges
• ondjaba art shop
• Ongava Game Reserve
• onjala lodge
• Online Shopping
• Ontouka Reptile Park
• open africa route
• orange river
• orange river mouth
• organics namibia
• orlando haraseb
• otjikoto lake
• otjipahuriro community campsite
• otjitotongwe cheetah farm namibia
• otjiwarongo
• outdoor media
• owela museum
• pack safari
• Pale Chanting Goshawks
• palmwag concession
• palmwag conservancy
• Paragliding
• paralympian
• passed away
• paul gindra
• paul van schalkwyk
• paul van schalkwyk exhibition
• peace parks
• pelican point
• pelican point jetty
• pelican point lodge
• People's Park
• peter bridgeford
• peter stark
• petrified forest
• philip stander
• photo safari
• photographer
• photography
• photography feature
• photography in namibia
• photography namibia
• photography tips
• pieter-dirk uys
• plan your trip
• plant specimens
• plastic-free
• Pocket-friendly options
• pohamba shifeta
• polytechnic of namibia
• pompie burger
• pompie burger birding
• portsmut game
• portuguese explorers
• potter’s association
• potters association of namibia
• pre-historic
• Prince Harry
• private land conservation
• protected areas
• pyrrhic victory
• quad-biking
• quartz crystal
• quiver tree
• Quiver Tree Forest
• Quiver Tree Rest Camp
• rain in namibia
• Rainbow River Lodge
• ramsar site
• ramsar site namibia
• Raptor habitat
• Raptors behavior
• rare and endangered species trust
• red earth safaris
• red-chested cuckoo
• Regional flights
• rehabiliation of cheetah
• rehabilitated cheetah
• remote jobs
• remote work
• rene gsponer
• responsible tourism
• restaurant namibia
• restaurants
• rhino conservation
• rhino conservation namibia
• rhino gold bar
• Rhino Momma Project
• rhino namibai
• rhino namibia
• rhino poaching
• rhino poaching namibia
• Rhino Royalé
• rhino security
• rhino trust
• Rhino Trust Namibia
• richtersveld
• ricky khaxab
• Ride for Rhinos
• riemvasmakers
• river guide
• river spotting
• roan antelope
• roasalia iileka
• robert bekker
• rock climbing
• rock engravings
• rock painting
• romantic destination
• romantic Namibia
• Romantic Namibian destinations
• ron swilling
• Rooiboos Trail
• Rooikuifloerie
• roosterbrood
• Ross's Turaco
• rostock mountains
• rotary lüderitz
• roy's camp
• royal honeymoon
• royal honeymoon destination
• Royal wedding
• royal wedding honeymoon
• ruaha carnivore project
• rudie van vuuren
• rufous-bellied tit
• RuralRevive
• sabrine keane
• Safari Food Solutions
• safari guide
• safari tour
• safe travel
• safety namibia
• san culture
• san of namibia
• sandboarding
• sandhof lilies
• sandwich harbour
• Sandwich Harbour 4x4
• sausage tree
• Savanna Car Hire
• save the rhino
• save the rhino trust
• save the rhino trust namibia
• save thew rhino trust
• scenic flights
• Scientific Names
• Scientific wildlife monitoring
• sean braine
• seasoned campers
• Self-catering
• self-driving camping
• semi-precious stones
• sense of africa
• Serra Cafema
• shamvura camp
• shannon powell
• shannon stow ell
• shannon stowell
• sharp-tailed starling
• Shearwater Bay
• shelley's sunbird
• shipwreck checklist
• shipwreck lodge
• sightseeing
• Sijwa Project
• Simone Micheletti
• Simson Uri-Khob
• single quarters
• site crystal awards
• skeleton coast
• skeleton coast national park
• skeleton coast safaris
• skill-sharing
• slowtown coffee
• Snake Eagle
• snakes namibia
• solar energy namibia
• solar power
• solitaire namibia
• solo travelling namibia
• song competition
• Sonop Lodge
• sophia snyman
• Sossusvlei & the Namib-Naukluft Park-Stories
• south of namibia
• South-West Africa
• Southern Africa
• Southern Carmine Bee-eater
• southern namibia
• southern region
• span project
• special species
• spectacled weaver
• speed challenge
• Spencer Bay
• Sperm whale
• Sperrgebiet
• sperrgebiet national park
• sperrgebiet park
• sponsorship
• spotted eagle
• Spreetshoogte Pass
• springbok atlas
• star gazing
• Stellenbosch bar
• steve braine
• steve felton
• Stillhouse Atlantic Distillery
• stolen moments
• strand hotel
• street food
• summer rain
• summer rains
• summer showers
• sustainability
• sustainable
• sustainable tourism
• swakokpmund
• swakopmund accommodation
• swakopmund arts and
• swakopmund sands hotel
• swakopmund tourism
• switzerland
• tailor-made
• tailor-made safari
• taleni africa
• tannery of the year
• tasa bush competition
• tasa bush cook competition
• team namibia
• team namibia logo
• Temminck’s pangolin
• temperatures
• tented camp
• terra nova namibia
• terrace lion
• Teufelskrallen Lodge
• The National Museum of African Art
• things to do
• this is my namibia
• tiger fishing
• tim osborne
• toktok talkie
• tom breckwoldt
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• tour guides
• tour namibia
• tour operator
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• tourism industry
• tourism prize
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• tourism training platform
• tourism woman of the year
• tourist centre
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• tourist info
• tourist statistics namibia
• tours and transfers
• towns and places
• towns and places namibia
• tracking flamingo
• tracking in caves
• traditional communities
• traditional jewellery
• trainoccasion
• transformation
• transfrontier parks
• travel across namibia
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• travel in namibia
• travel industry
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• travel with children
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• Traveling With a Purpose
• travelling with kids
• tree lovers guide to namibia
• trips for travellers
• trygve cooper
• tsaris mountains
• Tsau //Khaeb National Park
• tsoabis baboon project
• Tsodilo Hills
• tsumeb museum
• tsumeb namibia
• Two Beards Coffee Roasters
• twyfelfontein
• twyfelfontein area
• twyfelfontein country lodge
• twyfelfontein world heritage site
• Twyfelfontein-Brandberg-Damaraland-Stories
• tywfelfontein
• uahekua herunga
• uakekua herunga
• ugab hiking trail
• UN Secretary-General
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• underwater playground
• unesco world heritage site
• Unique people
• unique stay
• united nations
• united nations convention to combat desertification
• uukwaluudhi
• valentine’s day
• van zyl's pass
• vanishing kings
• Vehicle hire
• venture publications
• veterinarians
• Vibrant city
• Victorian-safari
• villa violet
• village south of namibia
• vinaigrette
• violet wood-hoopoe
• Virtuoso Travel Week
• Visual journey
• vivienne ward
• volunteer namibia
• vulture restaurant
• vultures in namibia
• vultures namibia
• WAG-'N-BIETJIE TRAIL
• walking for lions
• walking tour
• walvis bay lagoon
• Walvis Bay’s Waterfront
• wanderlust magazine
• warehouse theatre
• waste-free living
• water holes
• water-conscious
• water-limit
• waterberg hiking trail
• Waterberg National Park
• waterberg plateau
• Waterberg- Khaudum - Surroundings
• Waterberg- Khaudum - Surroundings-Stories
• Waterberg-Khaudum-Surorundings
• waterbuck namibia
• wattled crane
• weather in Namibia
• wecke & voigts
• wedge-snouted desert lizard
• wellness namibia
• Welwitschia
• welwitschia mirabilis
• Western Banded Snake Eagle
• whales namibia
• Whistling Kite
• white bushman
• White Lady Lodge
• White Lady Rock
• white rhino
• white-tailed shrike
• wild conservation
• wild horses
• Wilderness exploration
• Wilderness Safari
• wilderness safaris
• Wilderness Safaris Namibia
• wilderness trails
• Wilderness’ Conservation Heroes COVID-relief project
• Wildlife conservation
• wildlife namibia
• wildlife photography
• Wildlife research
• wildlife sanctuary
• Wildlife sightings
• wildlife vets
• william the conqueror of normandy
• Willie Olivier
• Windhoek /Ae//Gams
• windhoek conference
• windhoek food
• windhoek hilton
• windhoek lager
• windhoek lager ambassador
• windhoek public library
• Windhoek restaurant
• Windhoek-Surroundings
• windsurfing
• wing-snapping cisticola
• winter namibia
• winter weather
• Woman For Conservation
• women in tourism
• world giraffe day
• world giraffe day namibia
• world heritage
• world heritage site
• world heritage site namib sand sea
• world lion day
• World Overshoot Day
• world rhino day
• World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC)
• world tourism day 2013
• World War I
• world wildlife fund
• wwf namibia
• Yellow-billed Kite
• Young African Conservation Leaders
• young birders
• youth environmental summit
• Zambezi Region
• zambezi river
• Zannier Hotels
• zebra river lodge
• zebra snake
• zero packaging
• Elzanne McCulloch
• Liza de Klerk
• Travel News Namibia

National Parks of Namibia – A diverse suite of alternative breaks for travellers

Xwama cultural village, travel namibia: top five adventures, tosco trust launched – assisting human/wildlife conflict, experiencing damara culture first-hand, conservation initiatives in the central namib, conserving the desert-adapted black rhino, ecotourism – a contradiction in terms, adventure travel namibia: a never-ending story, leopards roam the north of namibia, securing the future of namibia’s large carnivores, paradise in namibia, namibia becomes top dark sky destination, namibian tree atlas project: three years of atlassing, the cheetah – one of namibia’s endangered species, the importance of wetland habitats, the peace parks concept, the return of the whales, the zebra snake antivenom project, transfrontier conservation areas in namibia.

Find A Travel Buddy in Namibia, Share Costs & Travel Together

How GAFFL Works

Find travel partners, get connected, trip together.

• Find a Travel Buddy
• Travel Buddy Namibia

What GAFFL Users Are Saying

"It’s really nice to have a platform like GAFFL with lots of travelers wanting to do the same as you, a real beautiful cultural exchange. You can meet people so easily and in a trustful way. We were four girls, from French, German and American backgrounds, without knowing each other from before. We spent an amazing week together, 2000km driving, camping on the way. We saw kangaroos, koalas, penguins and pelicans"

“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

Were you looking forward to a trip with your friends, only to find out that they had backed out last minute? Wondering how to find a travel companion online? Even if your family and friends' schedules don't match yours, your vacation doesn't have to be ruined because of it. GAFFL can help you to find the perfect travel companion for your next adventure.

The best way to find a travel buddy on GAFFL is to search for your desired destination and browse through thousands of user-generated trips created by solo travelers around the world.

A good travel companion is someone who has a similar itinerary to you. It's also someone you think you'll get along with.

Every user on GAFFL has a profile where they list their interests. If you and your potential trip mate share some common interests, it’ll make your trip go a lot smoother.

It's also important to have a similar budget in mind. If your travel companion wants to do more activities and eat at expensive restaurants but you can’t afford it, it can lead to an unpleasant trip for the both of you.

When browsing trips on GAFFL, make sure to read through the trip details to learn more about the trip and determine if the activities are something you want to do and can afford.

If you like a trip on GAFFL, simply click 'Connect,' and you'll be able to chat with your travel buddy right away. If you have your own travel plans, you can start your own trip and others can request to connect with you!

Finding the right travel companion online can be difficult for solo travelers. GAFFL, on the other hand, makes it very simple. Use our world-class real-time messaging system to get to know your potential travel partner. Chat with them to see if they'd be a good travel companion for you, and then plan together, meet up with your travel buddy, and start exploring together.

GAFFL is the best website/app for solo travelers looking for travel companions online because we prioritize our travelers' trust and safety. Our multi-step verification process includes social media, phone number, and a valid government ID, so you can be confident in your potential travel companion. With adventurers from over 190 countries, you can connect, chat, and find the perfect travel buddy to meet up with on GAFFL.

Solo travel is great. But there are some times that I do not recommend someone travel solo and where I personally try my hardest not to travel solo. Some examples of this relate to safety, like hiking a trail that doesn’t have many people walking it each day, or being in certain destinations where I’ve heard from others that it’s difficult as a solo female.

Other examples relate to expenses, like taking a road trip and renting a car. Situations like these are where I think something like GAFFL is a great idea. With GAFFL, you can find a group to go on that hike with or split that car rental with!

We truly believe that the best memories and experiences are the ones that are shared with others. It doesn’t matter if you’ve known someone for an hour or your whole life, when you do something badass together it’s sure to be a time you won’t forget.

Making connections and becoming friends with people all over the world is such a powerful tool to have when traveling. One day maybe you’ll visit your new friend in their homeland. Some of the best trips happen when you have a friend playing tour guide in their country.

GAFFL is a really cool opportunity to enrich your travels with like-minded people who will push you to get out of your comfort zone. No matter what type of personality you have, making new friends on the road is easier than ever.

One of the things that hold people back is that they don’t have a partner or a best friend to travel with and they feel scared and uncertain to travel alone, especially long-term. GAFFL helps with that!

Another thing that holds people back is the perceived cost of travel. While travel doesn’t have to be expensive, it’s always more affordable when you can share the cost of accommodation and groceries with someone else. Again, GAFFL provides a solution for that!

I think GAFFL plays a role by allowing solo travelers to find travel buddies when needed. Though solo travel is a great way to travel, there are some experiences that are better enjoyed with more people (some don’t even allow for solo).

Friends and families are not always available to travel with, and sometimes the interests do not align for travel. Or sometimes you just want to socialize while still being solo most of the time. I think GAFFL helps solve these problems.

I think this is a fabulous idea because the things that can get expensive while solo traveling can usually also be easily split between people. If you aren’t a hostel fan, it would be awesome to have people to split hotels and Airbnb with.

If car rental is the cheapest way to get around a destination, it would be ideal to have others to split the costs with. But most importantly it always makes the experience that much more memorable when you have new friends to share it with.

Kendall Jenner Flies Solo—Literally—in Gucci's Valigeria Campaign

The supermodel catches flights, not feelings.

Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny 's relationship was confirmed through Gucci. The two sat in the front row at Sabato De Sarno's debut show for the brand at Milan Fashion Week—and later hard-launched their relationship in Gucci's Valigeria campaign in September.

But just as their relationship was immortalized then, so is their breakup, as seen in the latest installment of the brand's Valigeria campaign on Thursday. In it, Jenner is captured in faux paparazzi shots in what appear to be not just one but two (!) revenge outfits.

Kendall Jenner stars in the Gucci Valigeria campaign—without Bad Bunny.

In a series of images shot by Anthony Seklaoui , Jenner is at the airport (again)—this time, appearing separately from Bad Bunny. Not that the Valigeria campaign is really about the breakup—instead, the house wants to focus on travel-friendly accessories from the Gucci Savoy collection, featuring duffle bags, backpacks, rigid suitcases, and trolleys just in time for summer.

As a face for the campaign, the supermodel is styled in head-to-toe Gucci by Alastair McKimm . She proved that solo travel is the way to go in a monochrome look, including a black turtleneck with matching flared-out trousers and white boots. She accessorized with the white Gucci Jackie handbag over her shoulder, oversized sunglasses, and the house's newest Savoy duffle bag in hand.

In another photo, the 28-year-old swapped out the all-black for an oversized gray suit. She styled the co-ord with a white short-sleeved crop top underneath, exposing a slice of her midriff, and dressed up the comfy set with a pair of black loafers. She kept the same white Jackie bag in hand, along with a few Gucci travel pieces—the Savoy duffle, the Ophidia backpack, and the Cabin trolley.

The 28-year-old made an outfit change for the house's recent campaign. She swapped out her monochrome black outfit for a gray suit.

As for Bad Bunny? He's also traveling solo for Gucci. The Puerto Rican musician wore a leather jacket, black sunglasses, and a matching cap as he pushed around a stack of Gucci luggage from the new Savoy drop.

Bad Bunny appeared separately from Jenner in the Gucci Valigeria campaign.

Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny were previously photographed for the first Gucci Valigeria drop in September . The two displayed affection in images inspired by "the intimacy of traveling together." In one image, the "Monaco" singer wrapped his arms around Jenner as she sat on a tower of Gucci suitcases.

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The Kardashians star publicly dated the 30-year-old artist for seven months before reportedly calling it quits in December 2023. In January, however, the two vacationed with friends in Barbados for New Year's, with the model showing off a sheer cutout gown on Instagram.

Last year, the duo were rumored to be together at Sabato De Sarno's debut Milan Fashion Week show for the brand.

It appears that while the Gucci universe brought them together, it also confirmed the tale of their separation—but at least, they both looked great in the process.

Born and raised in Memphis, India Roby is a freelance journalist based in New York City. In 2021, India graduated from The New School with a Bachelor’s in Journalism + Design and a minor in Fashion Communication. Her bylines have also appeared in NYLON, Highsnobiety, Harper’s Bazaar, Arch Digest, Teen Vogue, Byrdie, Paper, The Zoe Report, Fashionista, and others.

All six seasons of the hit HBO show are now available to stream on Netflix—and none of us will likely be able to watch any episode the same after Parker’s take.

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The 'Bridgerton' star's moving on from romantic florals and corsets.

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Quelle est notre histoire?

C'est une histoire d'amour . Une rencontre avec l'Afrique du Sud. Marie découvre ce pays en 2003. Elle arrive sous avoir idée des richesses et des découvertes que ce pays lui réservera.  Un pays dont il est difficile de se séparer. 

Si bien qu'elle est restée et qu'elle a décidé de partager sa passion avec d'autres voyageurs!

​Bénédicte la rejoint très rapidement animée par la même passion!

Petit à petit, Travel With Marie émerge , devient une agence de voyages unique, personnelle. Une agence qui se veut différentes des autres, en partageant des valeurs importantes : l'accueil, le partage, la chaleur humaine, le bonheur de voyager.  

La préparation du voyage avec nos clients est un vrai moment d'échange , de rencontre.  

Nous aidons nos clients à trouver leur route dans ces pays fantastiques que sont l'Afrique du Sud et la Namibie, en créant un voyage qui leur ressemble et en espérant qu'une fois encore, la magie de ces pays opère dans le coeur des voyageurs!

Notre agence de créations

Au fils des ans, Travel With Marie s'est agrandi face au nombre toujours croissant de demandes. 

Travel With Marie est maintenant une agence référence pour les voyageurs en Afrique Australe.

Nous espérons pouvoir vous rencontrer très bientôt en Afrique du Sud

Marie,  Bénédicte, Palesa

L'équipe travel with marie, marie elefteriou.

Travel Designer

Après de nombreux voyages autour du monde pendant mes années d'études, j'ai vite réalisé que ma vie ne serait pas à Paris. Le destin avait d'autres projets pour moi, avec entre autres la rencontre d'un Sud-Africain au Mexique! 20 années plus tard, nous sommes mariés, avons 2  filles de 12 et 14 ans qui comme nous aiment déjà voyager. Après 18 ans à Johannesburg, c'est maintenant près du Cap que nous avons posé nos valises!  Ma vie, c'est ici maintenant au sein de la nation Arc-en-ciel que j'espère vous faire découvrir.

Benedicte Spinewine

Je suis arrivée en Afrique du Sud en 2010 sans me douter que je tomberais vite amoureuse de ce pays. Belge d'origine, j'ai fait plusieurs boulots avant de rejoindre Travel With Marie en septembre 2014. Les choix de vie ont fait que j’ai quitté le pays avec ma petite famille pour la France, après 16 ans de vie à l’étranger. Je prends toujours autant de plaisir à faire ce métier avec Marie, depuis presque 10 ans maintenant, même depuis l’Europe. L’Afrique Du Sud restera mon pays de cœur et j’ai la chance de m’y rendre régulièrement pour le travail (et les vacances !).

Palesa Khesa

Je suis née près de Johannesburg où j'ai grandit. J'ai fait une partie de ma scolarité à l'école française, grâce à un programme avec une école sud-africaine. Je fais ensuite des études de droit, mais mon chemin croisera ensuite Travel With Marie. J'ai rejoint l'équipe en mai 2018! Je vis à Johannesburg avec mon mari et mes 3 garçons!