Namibia Useful Info
All you need to know before visiting Namibia
Transport: Namibia offers various transportation options for travelers, including:
Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Namibia's vast landscapes. Several international and local car rental companies operate in major cities and airports.
Public Transport: Public buses and minibus taxis serve major routes between cities and towns. However, schedules may be limited, and services may not reach remote areas.
Domestic Flights: Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations, providing a convenient and time-saving option for long-distance travel.
Guided Tours: Joining guided tours or safari packages is a hassle-free way to explore Namibia's attractions, with transportation provided by tour operators.
Visas: Most visitors to Namibia require a visa for entry. However, citizens of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. It's essential to check visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling to Namibia and ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
Airports: Namibia's main international airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), located near Windhoek. Other airports serving domestic and regional flights include Eros Airport (ERS) in Windhoek and Walvis Bay Airport (WVB) on the coast.
Traditions & Customs: Namibia is home to diverse ethnic groups, each with its own traditions and customs. Some common customs observed in Namibian society include:
Greetings: Handshakes are the most common form of greeting in Namibia, accompanied by the local greeting phrases in various languages, such as "Hallo" in Afrikaans or "Moro" in Oshiwambo.
Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is highly valued in Namibian culture, and it is customary to address older individuals with titles such as "Oom" (uncle) or "Tate" (father).
Hospitality: Namibians are known for their hospitality, and guests are often welcomed with warmth and generosity, including offering food and refreshments.
Cultural Etiquette: It's important to respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and asking permission before taking photographs of people.
Local Holidays: Namibia celebrates several public holidays, including:
Independence Day (21 March)
Workers' Day (1 May)
Africa Day (25 May)
Heroes' Day (26 August)
Independence Day (Namibia) (27 August)
Christmas Day (25 December)
New Year's Day (1 January)
Language Basics: The official language of Namibia is English, widely spoken and understood throughout the country. However, Namibia is also home to several indigenous languages, including Oshiwambo, Otjiherero, and Afrikaans. Learning a few basic phrases in the local languages can enhance your travel experience and foster communication with locals.
English: Hello - Goodbye - Please - Thank you - Yes - No - Excuse me - How much? - Where is...?
Oshiwambo: Hallo - Ombili - Na - Ondalé - Ee - Aya - Tata - Okwa /Uu/ - Oshi yelwa /yu/?
Otjiherero: Awe - Oku tja - Ee - Ombwa - Ee - Ahe - Tate - Hai omukuru - Ngaiwa nawa?
Afrikaans: Hallo - Totsiens - Asseblief - Dankie - Ja - Nee - Verskoon my - Hoeveel? - Waar is...?
Traveling with Kids: Traveling with children in Namibia can be an enriching experience, with plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some tips for traveling with kids in Namibia:
1. Plan family-friendly activities, such as wildlife safaris in Etosha National Park, sandboarding in the Namib Desert, or visiting the National Marine Aquarium in Swakopmund.
2. Pack essential items for children, including sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, snacks, and plenty of water, especially when traveling to remote areas.
3. Choose family-friendly accommodations with amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and babysitting services.
4. Be mindful of the weather conditions and dress children appropriately for outdoor activities, such as safari drives or desert excursions.
5. Engage children in learning about Namibia's culture and wildlife through educational activities, such as visiting cultural villages or participating in guided nature walks.
By following these tips and planning ahead, traveling with kids in Namibia can be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family.
Currency: The currency of Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), denoted by the symbol "$" or "N$" to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. The Namibian Dollar is abbreviated as "N$" and is divided into 100 cents. While the Namibian Dollar is the official currency, the South African Rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted and used interchangeably with the Namibian Dollar throughout Namibia. The Namibian Dollar is pegged to the South African Rand at a 1:1 exchange rate, meaning that 1 Namibian Dollar is equal in value to 1 South African Rand. This arrangement allows for seamless transactions between Namibia and South Africa. Both Namibian Dollars and South African Rands are commonly used for everyday transactions, including shopping, dining, accommodation, and transportation, making it convenient for travelers to use either currency while visiting Namibia. However, it's advisable to carry a mix of cash denominations and to inquire about accepted currencies at establishments, especially in more remote areas. Additionally, major credit cards are widely accepted in urban centers and tourist destinations across Namibia.
If there is anything that you don't find in these pages, but need to know before you decide to travel to Namibia, feel free to reach out to our local experts on the ground "Contact Us" link.
