FAQ section

Q: Can I use US Dollars or South African Rand in Namibia?

A:

Yes, South African Rand (ZAR) is legal tender and widely accepted throughout Namibia at a 1:1 exchange rate with the Namibian Dollar. US Dollars are accepted at some hotels and tour operators, but you'll get better rates exchanging to local currency at banks or ATMs in major towns.

Q: Is there a risk of Malaria in Namibia?

A:

Namibia has distinct malaria zones. The risk is highest in the northern regions including Etosha National Park, Zambezi Region (previously know as Caprivi Strip) and Kunene Region, particularly during the rainy season (November to April). Southern destinations like Sossusvlei, Fish River Canyon, and Windhoek are generally considered low risk or malaria-free. Prophylaxis is recommended for northern travel.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Namibia?

A:

Most travellers require a visa to enter Namibia due to reciprocity regulations introduced in 2025, although some nationalities remain exempt. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so travellers are advised to verify the latest entry requirements via Namibia’s official e-Services portal or their nearest Namibian embassy before booking.

Q: Can I apply for a Namibian visa online?

A:

Yes. Tourist and business visas can be applied for online via the Ministry of Home Affairs’ official e-Services portal, which also allows applicants to track their application status.

Q: How long can I stay in Namibia on a Visitor Entry Permit?

A:

Visitors may stay in Namibia for up to 90 days per calendar year, either in one continuous stay or in multiple entries, as endorsed by immigration authorities on arrival.

Q: What documents are required to enter Namibia?

A:

Travellers must have:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
• At least one blank passport page
• Proof of onward or return travel
• Proof of accommodation

Travelling with children may require unabridged birth certificates and, where applicable, a parental consent affidavit.

 

Q: Is Namibia safe for self-drive travel?

A:

Yes. Namibia is considered safe for self-drive travel, with good road infrastructure and relatively low crime levels, particularly in rural areas. The main risks include long driving distances, gravel roads, and wildlife on roadways. Drive cautiously, reduce speed on gravel, and avoid night driving where possible.

Q: Which side of the road does Namibia drive on?

A:

Namibia drives on the left-hand side of the road. Extra caution is advised on gravel roads and when approaching bends.

Q: What are the speed limits in Namibia?

A:

Typical speed limits are:

• 120 km/h on tarred roads

• Up to 80 km/h on gravel roads

Always adjust speed according to road conditions and visibility, particularly on gravel surfaces.

Q: Is night driving recommended in Namibia?

A:

No. Night driving is strongly discouraged due to poor visibility and the high risk of encountering wildlife or livestock. Plan journeys to arrive at your destination before sunset.

Q: Do I need a 4x4 vehicle in Namibia?

A:

A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for remote regions such as Kaokoland and the Skeleton Coast, as well as for added comfort on gravel roads. A standard sedan is sufficient for major paved routes and well-maintained gravel roads.

Q: Are fuel stations widely available?

A:

Fuel stations are available in towns and along major routes, but distances between stations can be long. Travellers should refuel whenever possible and carry cash in remote areas.

Q: Are mobile coverage and Wi-Fi reliable?

A:

Mobile coverage is generally good in towns and along main roads but limited in remote regions. Many lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, though connectivity may be slow or intermittent.

Q: What currency is used in Namibia?

A:

The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is the official currency and is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are widely accepted.

Q: Can I pay with South African Rand in Namibia?

A:

Yes. The South African Rand (ZAR) is widely accepted in Namibia.

Q: Are Visa and Mastercard widely accepted?

A:

Yes. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in towns, lodges, and larger establishments. Cash is recommended for fuel stations, small vendors, and remote areas.

Q: What electrical plugs and voltage does Namibia use?

A:

Namibia uses 220–240V electricity and South African–style three-pin (Type M) plugs. Travellers should bring a suitable adaptor.

Q: Is tap water safe to drink at lodges and hotels?

A:

Tap water is generally safe for brushing teeth and boiling. Bottled or purified water is recommended for drinking, especially in rural areas.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Namibia?

A:

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical emergencies, evacuation, vehicle rental, and trip cancellations.

Q: What vaccinations are recommended for Namibia?

A:

No compulsory vaccinations are required unless travellers are arriving from Yellow Fever risk countries. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended when travelling to northern regions during the rainy season.

Q: When is the best time to visit Namibia?

A:

Namibia can be visited year-round:

• May to October (dry season): Best for wildlife viewing

• November to April (green season): Lush landscapes and excellent birding

Q: How hot or cold does it get in desert regions?

A:

Days are generally warm to hot. Winter nights (June to August) can be very cold, particularly in desert areas such as the Namib Desert.

Q: What should I pack for a Namibia safari?

A:

Pack neutral-coloured clothing, layered outfits, sun protection, sturdy walking shoes, a warm jacket for evenings, a reusable water bottle, and a universal power adaptor.

Q: Why is the Namib Desert considered the oldest in the world?

A:

 The Namib Desert has existed in semi-arid to arid conditions for approximately 55-80 million years, making it the world's oldest desert. Its age is evidenced by unique endemic species that evolved in isolation, ancient sand dunes, and geological formations. The desert stretches 2,000km along Namibia's Atlantic coast.

Q: What is the difference between Sossusvlei and Deadvlei?

A:

Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by massive red sand dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Deadvlei is a white clay pan within Sossusvlei, famous for its 900-year-old dead camel thorn trees. Deadvlei means 'dead marsh' in Afrikaans. Both require a 5km drive from the 2x4 parking area, with the final 1km best done in 4x4 or shuttle.

Q: How do the seasons affect wildlife viewing in Etosha?

A:

During the dry season (May-October), wildlife viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around waterholes. In the wet season (November-April), animals disperse due to abundant water sources, vegetation is lush (obscuring views), and many camps close. However, the wet season brings newborn animals and dramatic thunderstorm skies perfect for photography.

Q: What wildlife is Namibia best known for?

A:

Namibia is best known for desert-adapted wildlife, including the Big Five -elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo.

 

Namibia hosts the largest free-roaming black rhino population in the world, as well as desert-adapted elephants and lions found in areas like Damaraland and the Kunene Region.

 

It also has the highest density of cheetahs globally, especially on freehold farmland.

Q: Where can I see the Big Five in Namibia?

A:

Etosha National Park is the best place to see most Big Five species in Namibia.

 

Etosha offers reliable sightings of elephant, lion, leopard, and rhino. Buffalo are limited to the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) and are not common in Etosha.

Q: When is the best time to see wildlife in Namibia?

A:

The best wildlife viewing is from May to October (dry season).

 

During the dry season, animals gather around permanent waterholes, especially in Etosha National Park, making sightings easier. Temperatures range from 20°C - 25°C during the day.

Q: Are Namibia’s animals dangerous?

A:

Wild animals can be dangerous, but incidents are rare when rules are followed. If you encounter wild animals, keep a respectful distance. Remain calm and do not disturb the animals.

 

Most wildlife encounters happen inside national parks and conservancies, where safety guidelines apply. Visitors should never walk alone at night in unfenced areas and must always follow ranger or guide instructions.

Q: What makes Namibia’s wildlife unique?

A:

Namibia’s wildlife is uniquely adapted to extreme arid environments.

 

Species such as desert elephants, oryx, and springbok survive with minimal water and travel long distances between resources. These adaptations are especially visible in the Namib Desert and northwest Namibia.

Q: What is a desert-adapted elephant?

A:

Desert-adapted elephants are elephants that have learned to survive in arid regions.

Found mainly in Damaraland and the Kunene Region, these elephants travel vast distances, use dry riverbeds as corridors, and rely on seasonal vegetation rather than permanent water sources.

Q: Is Namibia good for birdwatching?

A:

Yes, Namibia is a top birdwatching destination with over 650 recorded species.

Key birding areas include Etosha Pan, the Walvis Bay Lagoon, and the Zambezi floodplains, home to flamingos, pelicans, raptors, and endemic species like the Damara tern.

Q: What marine wildlife can be seen along Namibia’s coast?

A:

Namibia’s coast supports seals, whales, dolphins, and rich marine life.

 

The Skeleton Coast and Walvis Bay are known for Cape fur seal colonies, while southern right whales and humpbacks migrate along the coast seasonally due to the nutrient-rich Benguela Current.

Q: What is the Namib Desert famous for?

A:

The Namib Desert is famous for its ancient red sand dunes and unique life forms.

 

It is considered the oldest desert in the world and is home to iconic landmarks like Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and plants such as Welwitschia mirabilis, which can live over 1,000 years.

Q: Can wildlife be seen outside national parks?

A:

Yes, much of Namibia’s wildlife lives outside national parks.

 

Thanks to communal conservancies and freehold farms, wildlife roams across large landscapes, particularly in northwest and central Namibia.

Q: What is a communal conservancy?

A:

A communal conservancy is a community-managed conservation area.

 

Local communities are legally allowed to manage and benefit from wildlife through tourism, conservation jobs, and sustainable use, making Namibia a global leader in community-based conservation.

Q: Is Namibia ethical when it comes to wildlife conservation?

A:

Namibia follows a sustainable-use conservation model.

 

Wildlife conservation is funded through photographic tourism, hunting quotas, and joint ventures, with income supporting both conservation efforts and rural livelihoods.

Q: Are cheetahs common in Namibia?

A:

Namibia has the largest cheetah population in the world.

Most cheetahs live outside protected areas, particularly on farmland, where conservation focuses on coexistence rather than fencing.

Q: What reptiles and smaller animals are found in Namibia?

A:

Namibia hosts a wide range of reptiles, insects, and small mammals.

These include geckos, chameleons, snakes, scorpions, and uniquely adapted insects like the fog-basking beetle of the Namib Desert.

Q: How does climate affect wildlife in Namibia?

A:

Rainfall determines animal movement and behaviour.

Namibia’s ecosystems are shaped by highly variable rainfall, causing seasonal migration, breeding cycles, and changes in vegetation across regions.

Q: Can I see wildlife year-round in Namibia?

A:

Yes, wildlife viewing is possible all year.

The dry season offers better visibility, while the rainy season (November–April) brings newborn animals, migratory birds, and lush landscapes.

Q: Are there endangered species in Namibia?

A:

Yes, but Namibia is a stronghold for several endangered species.

These include black rhino, cheetah, African wild dog, and pangolin, all protected through national and community conservation programmes.

Q: What rules should visitors follow around wildlife?

A:

Respect distance, silence, and park regulations at all times.

Never feed animals, stay inside vehicles where required, and avoid off-road driving unless permitted, especially in fragile desert ecosystems.

Q: Why is Namibia considered a conservation success story?

A:

Namibia links conservation directly to people’s livelihoods.

By giving communities ownership over wildlife, Namibia has reduced poaching, expanded wildlife populations, and increased rural income.

Q: How can visitors contribute to wildlife conservation?

A:

Responsible tourism directly supports conservation in Namibia.

Staying at sustainably operated lodges, visiting conservancies, and following park rules helps fund conservation and protect natural ecosystems.

Q: Is tap water safe to drink in Namibia?

A:

Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in major urban centers like Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay. However, in remote lodges, rural areas, and national parks, bottled or filtered water is recommended. Always carry extra drinking water when traveling between destinations.

Q: How can tourists ethically visit Himba communities?

A:

Visit Himba communities through reputable tour operators who work directly with villages and ensure fair compensation. Always ask permission before taking photographs, respect cultural practices like not touching sacred items, and purchase crafts directly from artisans. Avoid 'human zoo' style tours that exploit communities for tourism.

Q: What is the significance of Heroes' Day in Namibia?

A:

Heroes' Day (August 26) commemorates the start of Namibia's armed liberation struggle in 1966 at Omugulugwombashe. It honors those who fought for independence from South African rule, achieved in 1990. The day features ceremonies at Heroes' Acre monument near Windhoek and is a public holiday.

Q: What makes Namibia one of the most culturally diverse countries in Southern Africa?

A:

Namibia is home to more than a dozen ethnic groups, each with unique languages, histories, and traditions.

 

Communities such as the Ovambo, Damara, Herero, Himba, Kavango, Caprivian, Nama, Tswana, Topnaar, and San (Bushmen) have distinct cultural identities. The country’s vast geography contributed to this diversity because isolated environments - like the Kaokoveld, Kalahari, and Namib Desert - allowed groups to develop independently for centuries.

Q: How many languages are spoken in Namibia?

A:

Namibia has over 30 languages and dialects, including Bantu languages, Khoisan languages with click consonants, and Germanic and European languages.

Q: Why is multilingualism so common?

A:

Many Namibians speak at least three languages - a home language, a regional lingua franca (such as Oshiwambo or Afrikaans), and English, the official language. This multilingualism grew from historical contact, trade networks, and the country’s colonial past.

Q: What role does storytelling play in Namibian communities?

A:

Storytelling is central to preserving oral history as well as culture and traditions. For example, among the San, stories explain creation, morality, and nature through characters like the trickster !Khub. The Damara and Nama use praise poems and riddles to pass down wisdom.

 

Even today, elders in rural communities consider storytelling an educational method to teach values, survival skills, and family lineage.

Q: Why do the Himba people apply otjize (red ochre) paste to their skin and hair?

A:

Otjize - made from butterfat and ground ochre - serves multiple purposes:

• Protects skin from the harsh desert sun.

• Repels insects (such as mosquitoes).

• Carries deep cultural symbolism linked to the earth and ancestral heritage.

• Himba hairstyles shaped with otjize also signal milestones such as puberty, marriage, and motherhood.

Q: How is communal living expressed in Namibian rural societies?

A:

Many groups still practice extended family living.

 

The Owambo and Kavango often share homesteads with grandparents, cousins, and aunts. Communal labour - such as crop harvesting or cattle herding - is common, especially during seasonal cycles. Decisions affecting the community are often made through consensus in village councils or traditional courts.

 

Traditional homes and structures can be seen across various Namibian regions (such as Kavango, Zambezi, Oshikoto, Omaheke, Kunene, Ohangwena, Oshana).

Q: What are the main traditional leadership systems in Namibia?

A:

Traditional authorities exist within nearly all ethnic groups. Chiefs, headmen, or kings oversee matters like land allocation, conflict resolution, and cultural preservation. For example:

• Aawambo communities have councils led by Omukwaniilwa (kings).

• Herero communities recognise Paramount Chiefs.

• Nama clans historically followed Kapteins (captains).

It is important to know that traditional leaders work in harmony with Namibia’s modern government.

Q: How do the Bushmen maintain their hunter-gatherer traditions today?

A:

While many San and Khoikhoi (often grouped together as the Khoisan people) have transitioned to settled life, some communities in regions like Tsumkwe still practice:

 

Tracking wildlife with exceptional skill, foraging for roots, berries and medicinal plants, storytelling dances around the fire, and sealing rituals that involve trance states.

 

These practices preserve knowledge thousands of years old and may be demonstrated or can be observed through living museums or during immersive activities and experiences offered by tourism organisations and travel companies.

Q: Why is cattle culturally significant among the Herero and Himba?

A:

Cattle represent wealth, identity, status, and spirituality.

 

As such, they play a significant role in bride-wealth, community ceremonies, and ancestral connections. Specific cattle markings, colours as well as patterns may even influence naming traditions.

 

Additionally, for the Himba and Herero people, cattle herding teaches children responsibility from an early age.

Q: What is the significance of Namibia’s traditional attire?

A:

Traditional clothing reflects history, climate, and identity; for example:

• Herero dresses mimic 19th-century Victorian gowns adopted during German colonial rule.

• Nama dresses reflect bright, patterned fabrics and matching headscarves.

• Himba skirts and leather adornments suit their nomadic, pastoral lifestyle.

• San garments made from tanned hides suit an active life of movement.

Q: What are some traditional Namibian foods tied to specific communities?

A:

In Namibia, different traditional foods and drinks vary widely across different groups. To list a few:

• Oshifima (a thick maize porridge) and ondjove sauce are central to Aawambo cuisine.

• The Topnaar use !nara melon seeds to produce traditional oil.

• The Zambezi region enjoys fish-based dishes due to river proximity.

• San diets include gathered berries, roots, and roasted meats.

• Damara cuisine includes vleis (meat) dishes and fermented drinks.

Q: How do Namibian communities celebrate weddings?

A:

Weddings vary widely but often include:

• Extended family negotiations

• Exchange of cattle or symbolic gifts

• Traditional singing and dancing

• Ritual blessings

• Feasts and storytelling

• Traditional weddings can last from two days to several days or weeks.

Q: What is the meaning of community dances and music in Namibia?

A:

Dance is a form of spiritual expression, communication, and celebration. For example:

• Himba dance circles honour ancestors.

• Nama Stap dances combine rhythmic stomping with harmonised vocals.

• San trance dances (typically with a fire alight) help heal emotional or physical pain through spiritual energy.

Q: How do desert-adapted communities survive Namibia’s harsh climates?

A:

Communities like the Himba and Topnaar rely on environmental knowledge - identifying water sources, understanding seasonal animal movements, and using plants for food or medicine.

 

Their traditional homes are built from local materials such as mopane, mud, and reeds to regulate temperature.

 

For example, the bushmen would store water in an Ostrich eggshell and bury it in sand to keep and find it cool. For some groups, sometimes, dancing and gather around the fire would help keep warm or cover up with blankets made from animal skin.

Q: How does Namibia balance modern life with cultural traditions?

A:

Although more than 50 percent of Namibia’s population lives in urban areas, traditions remain strong.

 

People blend modern education with cultural practices; many return to rural homes during harvests, funerals, and festivals. Traditional authorities still guide moral and land-related decisions. And, some schools, communities and families still enforce traditional standard procedure and behaviours to apply in daily life and important events.

Q: What is the role of ancestor worship in certain communities?

A:

In groups such as the Herero, Himba, and some Damara clans, ancestors are believed to guide and protect the living. Rituals at holy fires or sacred cattle kraals help maintain this connection. Offerings ensure harmony between the past and present generations.

Q: How do communities resolve conflict traditionally?

A:

Many communities maintain customary courts where elders mediate disputes using restorative principles. Solutions often aim at reconciliation rather than punishment. Compensation may involve cattle, labour, or symbolic gestures.

Q: Can travellers take Namibian crafts across international borders?

A:

Yes. Travellers can take most Namibian crafts and souvenirs - such as baskets, jewellery, carvings, pottery, and textile items - out of the country, as these count as personal effects and souvenirs and are generally free to export in reasonable quantities.

However, some items need extra care:

• Crafts containing protected wildlife parts (like ivory or certain hides) require CITES permits and may be restricted. [hinterlandtravel.com]

• Specific plant or wood products may need phytosanitary clearance depending on your destination country.

• Travellers must declare all goods when leaving Namibia, as required by NamRA.

Q: What cultural festivals take place in Namibia?

A:

Some festivals that celebrate history and identity are:

• Herero Day (commemorates Chief Samuel Maharero)

• Oshituthi Shomagongo (marula fruit festival, UNESCO recognised)

• King’s festivals in various Aawambo Kingdoms

• Damara Guurub celebrating unity and heritage

• Olufuko (by the Aawambo people)

Q: Where can visitors explore Namibian crafts, and what types of crafts are commonly available?

A:

Namibia offers a wide range of distinctive handmade crafts that reflect the artistry of its communities.

 

Visitors can explore crafts at cultural villages, open-air markets, community cooperatives, and roadside stalls across the country. Popular places include the Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Market, Outapi’s Ombalantu Baobab Craft Market, the Katutura Community Craft Centre, and smaller local markets in towns like Swakopmund, Windhoek, Ondangwa, Rundu, and Katima Mulilo. Many national parks and lodges also feature small craft stands operated by local artisans.

 

Common crafts include beautifully woven baskets from the Kavango and Zambezi regions, wood carvings from Okahandja, Himba jewellery, Herero dolls, pottery, leatherwork, hand-beaded items, and San craftwork such as ostrich eggshell jewellery. These items offer travellers an authentic way to connect with Namibia’s cultural heritage while supporting local artisans and community livelihoods.

Q: How is respect for elders integrated into Namibian culture?

A:

Elders are considered knowledge keepers. They guide family decisions, mediate conflict, and preserve oral traditions. Greeting elders first, offering them seats, and seeking their counsel in major life decisions are common practices across many ethnic groups.