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When planning a trip, countless questions often arise:
When is the best time to travel? Do I need vaccinations? Do I need a visa? What should I pack?
We've compiled the most important questions and answers for you below.
1. When is the best time to travel to Namibia?
Namibia is a great place to visit year-round. The best time to travel depends primarily on what you want to experience.
For safaris and wildlife viewing, the dry season months of July to October are ideal. During this rainless period with clear blue skies, the chances of seeing many wild animals at the waterholes are very high. Because their vegetation contains little moisture, hundreds of zebras, springboks, wildebeest, and even herds of elephants gather daily at the waterholes to quench their thirst.
However, the rainy season between January and April also has its charm – when downpours transform even the desert into a green and, in some places, colorful sea of flowers. Birdlife is also particularly active during this time. Therefore, it is especially worthwhile for passionate birdwatchers to visit Namibia at this time of year.
2. Is it always warm in Namibia?
Almost :-) – Namibia has a wonderful climate with plenty of sunshine and warmth.
Namibia is located in the Southern Hemisphere, which means:
Summer (October to March): Warm to hot (30–40°C is not uncommon inland). During the rainy season, with its usually short, heavy downpours occur and cool temperatures down briefly.
Winter (May to August): Pleasantly mild during the day (20–25°C), but it can get quite cold at night – especially in the desert or on the high plateau. Temperatures sometimes even drop below 0°C at night!
The weather is usually very dry and sunny, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. So yes, it's often warm or hot during the day – but a warm jacket should still be in your luggage (see packing list).
3. How long should one spend on holiday in Namibia?
Of course, it depends a bit on what you want to see – but generally speaking, Namibia isn't a country for short trips.
The country is vast, the highlights are often spread out, and the landscapes and wildlife encounters are so spectacular that you'll want to take your time to truly experience them.
Recommendation for a classic tour:
14 to 21 days is ideal. Of course, you can also travel for a shorter time, let's say 10 days, if you're focusing on one region – or longer if you want to explore the far south around the Fish River Canyon or the Caprivi Strip.
Our tip: The longer, the better :-)
Photo: photobyphotoboy (Canva)
4. Do I need a visa as a tourist?
Since April 1, 2025, travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (as well as other citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries) require a visa—either an e-visa in advance or a tourist visa upon arrival. The cost is approximately €80 / US$90.
However, it is recommended to apply for the visa online in advance to avoid waiting times. Register on the Namibian Ministry of the Interior website and follow the steps provided: https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/holidayvisa-services
Please also note the important information regarding the application, such as the validity of your identification, etc.
5. Is Namibia safe to travel to?
Namibia is considered one of the relatively safe African travel destinations. Risks of theft exist, particularly in cities (e.g. Windhoek). Avoid walking alone at night.
It is strongly advised NOT to leave valuables, backpacks, or bags openly in your car when parked on the side of the road, in parking lots, or in front of restaurants. Take valuables with you or put them in the trunk. Ideally, empty the interior of your car – even small pieces of luggage without valuables can be an attractive target for burglars – as it's impossible to tell from the outside whether a camera or other valuables are hidden inside.
Caution is also advised while driving: There is a high number of wild animals crossing the roads outside of towns and villages. Driving at night is therefore strongly discouraged to avoid accidents.
6. What health precautions and vaccinations are necessary?
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Foto: Diy13 (Canva)
No vaccinations are required for entry into Namibia – unless you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic area. In this case, a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
Regardless, it is recommended that you update or obtain standard vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis A and B. Depending on your itinerary and activities – for example, close contact with animals – vaccinations against typhoid or rabies may also be advisable. It is best to consult your family doctor or a travel medicine specialist for personalized advice.
In certain regions of northern Namibia, such as the Caprivi Strip, there is an increased risk of malaria during the rainy season. Consistent mosquito protection is essential. Additionally, medically recommended prophylactic medication, such as Malarone, is strongly advised. It is best to discuss this with your doctor.
7. What about driving a car in Namibia?
Driving in Namibia is part of your adventure and arguably the best way to discover the country in all its vastness and beauty. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and relaxing trip:
In Namibia, they drive on the left. This might feel unusual at first, but it usually becomes second nature quickly – especially if you drive attentively and take it easy.
Most of the roads outside the cities are unpaved gravel roads. Many of these are passable with a regular car. However, if you plan to visit remote areas or are traveling during the rainy season, a 4x4 rental car is not only more comfortable but also significantly safer.
Since distances are often considerable and gas stations are usually far apart, it's a good idea to fill up in advance. A full tank provides peace of mind – as do offline maps, since cell service isn't always available in rural areas.
The minimum age for renting a vehicle in Windhoek is 21, depending on the rental company. However, an age of over 25 is often recommended, especially for larger vehicles or four-wheel-drive models.
With good preparation, driving through Namibia will be an unforgettable part of your adventure – full of freedom, endless expanses, and breathtaking landscapes.
8. How do I pay in Namibia?
Foto: johan10 (Canva)
Foto: cristian martin (Canva)
In Namibia, the currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are widely accepted, so you can also pay with South African cash. It's important to note that while you cannot use Namibian Dollars in South Africa, the reverse is not a problem in Namibia.
Cash can be easily withdrawn from ATMs – for example, at airports, in cities, or at larger gas stations. The usual withdrawal limits are between 1,000 and 2,000 NAD, but these can generally be used multiple times consecutively. It is recommended to carry at least 500 to 1,000 NAD per person in cash, especially for more remote areas, small purchases, or tips.
Card payments are widely accepted in Namibia: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most lodges, supermarkets, restaurants, and gas stations. American Express and Diners Club are less common and are often not accepted at all. Maestro debit cards usually only work at ATMs for cash withdrawals and are hardly usable as a direct means of payment. It's advisable to take several cards with you – ideally at least one Visa and one Mastercard – to be on the safe side.
Before you travel to Namibia, it's a good idea to inform your bank that you will be abroad. This will help you avoid unwanted card blocks during your trip.
Remember: Card fraud also occurs in Namibia, so you should never leave your card unattended and always make sure you enter your PIN secretly. If you follow these simple precautions, you can handle payments in the country without worry and focus entirely on your adventure.
In short: With a standard credit card and some cash on hand, you'll be well-equipped for all your expenses while traveling in Namibia.
9. What language is spoken in Namibia?
Namibia is a linguistically diverse country. The official language is English, so with good English skills you'll be able to travel throughout the country without any problems – from hotels and national parks to gas stations and markets.
Many Namibians speak several languages fluently, as Namibia has 11 national languages, including:
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Afrikaans – widely spoken in everyday life, especially in the south and among the older population.
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Oshiwambo – the most widely spoken mother tongue in the north of the country.
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Otjiherero, Damara/Nama, Khoekhoegowab (with click consonants)
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German (!) – yes, German is still spoken in some regions, especially in Swakopmund and Lüderitz, as there are many people of German descent living in Namibia (remember: Namibia was once a German colony). So you'll find German street names, bakeries, and even German radio stations!
10. What do people eat in Namibia?
Namibia is a foodie's dream, especially if you enjoy meat – but there's also a growing selection for vegetarians.
Typical Namibian specialties:
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Game meat – e.g., kudu, oryx, springbok, ostrich. Lean, aromatic, and often grilled (braai).
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Potjiekos – A stew, slowly cooked in a cast-iron pot over an open fire.
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Boerewors – Spicy, African-style grilled sausage.
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Biltong – Air-dried meat, similar to beef jerky – very popular as a snack.
In tourist areas, you'll also find German-inspired cuisine: schnitzel, bread rolls, Black Forest cherry cake – the German colonial past is still evident in the food. Vegetarian options? Lodges and restaurants are constantly expanding their offerings – with delicious salads, vegetable casseroles, curries, and African-inspired bowls.
If you're self-sufficient and enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, it's advisable to stock up in supermarkets in larger cities. Small shops in camps or villages usually only stock canned goods, pasta, rice, drinks, and frozen meat, but hardly any fresh food.
Foto: Drbouz (Canva)
Should you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us via email. Kind regards, Claudia & Wynand
(all photos by Claudia & Wynand du Plessis - except indicated differently)