Why Visit Namibia
Namibia is truly unique country for those looking for adventure whilst offering silence and solitude.
Discover endless landscapes, shifting dunes, massive rock formations, big 5 safaris and marine safaris in the Atlantic Ocean. From the beauty of Sossusvlei’s radiating red sands to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park, Namibia is a haven for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Explore the enchanting charm of its quaint coastal towns, where the desert meets the Atlantic, and witness the ancient landscapes of Deadvlei.
Sleep under the starry nights, whether wild camping, unique lodges or some of Africa’s most luxurious retreats.
Namibia is an extraordinary destination that promises an unforgettable journey into the soul of Africa.
Discover Namibia
Top Destinations
Namib-Naukluft National Park
Namib-Naukluft National Park is a must-visit for its captivating desert landscapes and biodiversity, notably the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei. Among the world's highest, these dunes are a photographer's delight at sunrise and sunset. The park also features Deadvlei's surreal landscape and the impressive Sesriem Canyon.
Attraction List:
- Sossusvlei's Towering Red Dunes
- Deadvlei's Ancient Camel Thorn Trees
- Sesriem Canyon's Steep Formations
- Hiking Trails and Desert-Adapted Plants
- Star-Studded Nights
- Luxurious Desert Lodges
Damaraland
Damaraland, a ruggedly beautiful region in Namibia. The region offers dramatic landscapes and unique cultural encounters. Its allure lies in otherworldly vistas, ancient geological formations, and the chance to witness desert-adapted wildlife thriving in this challenging environment.
Attraction List:
- Twyfelfontein's Rock Formations: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with millennia-old rock engravings.
- Brandberg: Namibia's highest mountain, glowing red amidst desolate backdrops.
- Desert-Adapted Wildlife: Encounter elephants and rhinos uniquely adapted to survive in the arid surroundings.
- Scenic Drives: Traverse diverse landscapes, from rocky outcrops to expansive plains, unveiling the region's rich biodiversity.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities, gaining insights into their resilient ways of life, blending adventure with cultural depth.
Kaokaveld (Kunene Region)
A mesmerizing wilderness boasting harsh yet stunning landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, this region stands among the world's least densely populated areas—a true gem for solitude and introspection, complemented by perfect starlit nights.
Attraction List:
- Safaris for Desert-Adapted Wildlife
- Immersive Exploration of the Himba's Nomadic Culture
- Venture to the Northernmost Parts: Discover the Ruacana and Epupa Falls
- Van Zyl's Pass: For the Extremely Adventurous - One of Africa's Toughest 4x4 Routes (Extreme Caution Advised)
Swakopmund
Nestled between desert dunes and the Atlantic Ocean, the small town of Swakopmund seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation—a unique fusion that captures the essence of Namibia.
Attraction List:
- Adventure Activities: Sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving over coastal dunes.
- Marine Safaris in Walvis Bay Lagoon: Explore by boat or kayak, encountering seals, flamingos, pelicans, and more.
- Living Desert Tours: Discover the magic of the desert with local guides.
- German Colonial Heritage: Reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and museums.
- Charming Cafes and Serene Ocean Promenade.
Caprivi Strip
The Caprivi Strip, nestled between Angola, Zambia, and Botswana, stands as a wildlife gem in Namibia, offering a harmonious blend of diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Attraction List:
- Exceptional Wildlife Encounters: Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species in their natural habitats.
- Safari Drives and Boat Cruises: Exceptional opportunities to explore the wildlife.
- Diverse Landscapes: From wetlands and floodplains to woodlands and savannas.
- Engaging Activities: Fishing, birdwatching, and guided safaris to immerse in the region's beauty.
- Explore the less-explored beauty of Namibia while en-route to Botswana and Victoria Falls.
Kolmanskop
Kolmanskop, a ghost town swallowed by Namibia's shifting desert sands. Once a thriving diamond mining town, it now lies abandoned in surreal decay. Exploring its eerie, sand-filled buildings offers a ghostly glimpse into the past, creating a photographer's paradise.
Attraction List:
- Abandoned Diamond Mining Town: A haunting testament to a bygone era.
- Eerie Exploration: Sand-filled buildings provide a surreal journey into history.
- Photographic opportunities of a one of a kind historical desert town.
- Luderitz Coastal Town: Explore the nearby town and witness wild horses running free in Aus.
Skeleton Coast National Park
Skeleton Coast National Park in Namibia is a mysterious and hauntingly beautiful destination, renowned for its desolate yet mesmerizing landscapes, shipwrecks dotting the coastline, and diverse wildlife thriving in a harsh environment. Visitors are drawn to the raw beauty of this remote and untouched wilderness, a landscape that has intrigued explorers for centuries. Amidst this seemingly inhospitable terrain, a surprising array of life exists, including desert-adapted elephants, cape fur seals, and a variety of bird species.
Attraction List:
- Shipwreck luxury lodge
- 4x4 in the dunes
- Off the beaten track adventures
- Silence and solitude
Spitzkoppe
An iconic Namibian landmark, this towering granite peak rises dramatically from the Namib Desert. Its massive formation and ancient rock art captivate visitors, offering a spiritual and awe-inspiring experience.
Hikers are drawn to its challenging yet rewarding trails, leading to breathtaking panoramic views. At night, the sky transforms Spitzkoppe into an astronomical wonderland.
Attraction List:
- Hiking the towering rock formations
- Photography with the changing light
- Solitude and Starry Nights
Okonjima Nature Reserve
As the home of the Africat Foundation, it's a sanctuary for big cats, including leopards and cheetahs.
Engage in educational activities, learning about conservation efforts and the delicate balance between wildlife and local communities. The reserve's guided safaris and tracking experiences provide an immersive understanding of these predators' behaviours and habitats.
Attraction List:
- Leopard tracking
- Pangolin tracking on foot
- Rhino tracking on foot
- Bush walks
- Endangered species nature drives
Fish River Canyon
As the world’s second-largest canyon, the Fish River Canyon is a geological masterpiece. Its vastness and rugged beauty offers scenic viewpoints and unparalleled hiking opportunities along its challenging but rewarding trails. One may embark on an unsupported five-day hike through canyon, although not easy, it showcases breathtaking landscapes, ancient rock formations, and the raw power of nature. The canyon's tranquility and surreal vistas at sunrise and sunset create lasting moments, perfect for introspection and connection with the earth's ancient history.
Attraction List:
- Visit the worlds second largest canyon
- Hiking trails (day trips to overnight)
- Solitude and silence
Windhoek
Namibia's capital city harmoniously blends African and European influences, offering a diverse fusion of modernity and history. Cultural diversity thrives in Windhoek's culinary scene, art galleries, and museums. The iconic Christuskirche and Alte Feste Museum reflect its colonial past, while the lively street markets and craft shops celebrate local arts and crafts. Windhoek provides a gateway to Namibia's wonders, with easy access to national parks, wildlife reserves, and adventure activities. It serves as both a cultural hub and a starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and experiences Namibia has on offer.
Attraction List:
- Visit Christuskirche and Alte Feste Museum for some historical insight into Windhoek.
- Discover restaurants and bars in Namibia's largest city.
Orange River
On the southernmost tip of Namibia one can find the beautiful Orange River that forms the border to South Africa. Overnight canoeing on the Orange River is an adventure like no other. The scenic river meanders through desert landscapes offering a mix of rapids and tranquil stretches, perfect for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. On a multi-day canoe trip a team will setup camp on the riverbanks under the stars and have all your meals prepared for you whilst you enjoy campfire stories and the days highlights.
Attraction List:
- Overnight canoe trails. (1 - 6 day options available)
Top Experiences
Best Time to Visit Namibia
Namibia is a year-round travel destination. The country is known for its ever-present sunshine and is accessible throughout the year. Due to Namibia being part of the Kalahari Desert, it does experience extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, therefore it’s wise to plan your visit according to your preferences and locations.
The prime time for a safari in Etosha National Park is between June and October (dry-season). During this season there is minimal rainfall, the daytime temperatures are mild (except October can be very hot) and animals tend to congregate around waterholes making them easier to spot and also better for the iconic waterhole photography with all sorts of wildlife in the same place.
Alternatively, the hot and wet summer months, from November to April, offer a different perspective. The landscapes transform with lush vegetation and the skies are crystal clear after the infrequent thundershowers, perfect for landscape photography.
During the peak travel months of July to September, Namibia is an extremely popular destination and accommodation needs to be booked well in advance.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
- Excellent
- Good
- Fair
Monthly features:
Dry Season (June to October) are driest months with virtually no rainfall. Wildlife sightings are at their best especially at Etosha. These are great months for adventure, safari and self-drives. Things to note: October can be very hot month and June to August can be very cold for the morning safaris.
Shoulder Season (April, May and November) are good months for those looking to have a great safari experience and avoid the busiest periods (with the exception of Easter). The rainfall is very limited and usually isolated thunderstorms. Temperatures can be fairly high, especially November.
Wet Season (December to March) has the highest rainfall and very hot conditions. As the rainfall is usually short and sparse it is still a good time to visit and one will find better availability and pricing during this time of year. Due to the rainfall wildlife viewing can be slightly harder due to dense vegetation and animals dispersing, however it is a great time to see baby animals, migrant birds and clear skies for photography.
Perfect Namibia Add-Ons:
Fequently Asked Questions
Namibia is one of the best value for money destinations in Southern Africa.
The reason for this is:
- Exchange Rates: Due to the Namibian Dollar (NAD) devaluing for many years against all the major currencies including the US dollar, British pound, Swiss Franc and Euro, this gives rise to a much greater spending power within the country for many travellers.
- Cost of Living: Accommodation, transportation, and food costs are relatively lower than that of most developed nations (USA, Europe, etc) and therefore foreign travellers can afford more in Namibia than for a similar quality back home.
- Competition in Tourism: Namibia has a competitive tourism industry with various options for accommodation, transportation, and activities. This competition drives prices down, offering travellers more affordable choices.
- Diverse Offerings: The country provides a wide range of experiences, from safaris to adventures to cultural experiences, all catering to different budgets. This diversity allows travellers to pick options that fit their budget constraints.
- Quality Infrastructure: Due to the country’s decent infrastructure and economy the quality of tourism products is very high.
Cost of Travelling in Namibia in order of most affordable to most expensive:
- Overland Group Tours
- Self-Driving (Camping)
- Self-Drive (Accommodated)
- Fly-In Luxury Safaris
Even though Namibia is an affordable destination there are factors that will affect ones overall spend including accommodation preferences, length of travel, dining choices, transportation modes, and activities.
Namibia is an easy country to travel to.
The main international airport for tourists are Windhoek (Hosea Kutako International Airport)
The majority of international visitor’s would transit through either:
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
There are also direct flights from Frankfurt, Germany to Windhoek.
Namibia is a very large and diverse country (approximately 1.5 times the size of France).
Distances between destinations can be very large, therefore we will guide you on travel times and road conditions.
Options for travelling in Namibia:
- Self-Drive: The most common way to travel in Namibia. The roads are great, there is fuel readily available and clean rest stops throughout the country. There are also great lodges along the popular tourist routes. A lot of our guests will choose to do a hybrid of self-drives and luxury all-inclusive lodges for a best of both worlds experience.
- Tours: Namibia is a great country to join a guided multi day tour, either on an overland truck or a customised safari vehicle. This is especially good for solo travellers who want to share the experience with other international travellers.
- Fly In: For travellers short on time or wanting to rather fly straight into the prime locations, there are charters available to many lodges and locations.
- Taxis: Only available in the major cities.
- Day Trips: Swakopmund is the best place for day trips. There are land and water activities to enjoy within a short drive.
Namibia is generally safe for travellers. It has a relatively low crime rate compared to other African countries. However, like any destination, it’s wise to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas where petty theft and opportunistic crimes can occur.
In remote areas or when driving long distances, it’s essential to be prepared with enough supplies, including fuel and water, especially in more desolate regions where services might be limited.
Overall, Namibia is a beautiful country with welcoming people, but as with travel anywhere, staying vigilant and informed is key to having a safe and enjoyable experience.
At AfriVenture we will never design an itinerary that would put you into a risky situation or area.
Malaria is very uncommon in Namibia but Yes, Malaria is present in some parts of Namibia, primarily in the northern regions bordering Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, such as the Caprivi Strip. The risk of malaria in other popular tourist areas like Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Etosha National Park is low.
It’s important to take precautionary measures if you’re traveling to malaria-prone areas, especially during the rainy season (November to April), when mosquito populations are higher.
Preventive measures against malaria includes:
- Taking anti-malarial medication prescribed by a healthcare professional (if necessary).
- Using insect repellent.
- Wearing protective clothing in the evenings. (eg, Long Sleeves and Long Pants)
- Sleeping in accommodations with mosquito nets, screened windows, fans and air conditioning.
Always consult with a healthcare provider or travel doctor before your trip to get the most up-to-date and personalized advice on malaria prevention based on the specific areas you plan to visit and your individual health considerations.
Visa requirements for Namibia vary depending on your nationality.
Some countries have visa-free arrangements with Namibia, allowing their citizens to visit for a specified period without needing a visa. Other nationalities might need to apply for a visa in advance.
To determine whether you need a visa to visit Namibia, you should check with the nearest Namibian embassy or consulate in your country or visit the official website of the Namibian Department of Home Affairs. They provide updated information about visa requirements, including which countries are exempt from visa requirements and the conditions for visa-free entry.
Visa requirements can change, so it’s essential to confirm the most current information well before your planned travel dates.
Always consult with a healthcare provider or travel doctor several weeks before your trip to get personalized advice based on your health history, itinerary, and current health recommendations.
At the time of writing there are no compulsory vaccinations for travellers entering Namibia. However, the country might require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from or have recently visited a Yellow Fever endemic area. This requirement usually applies to travellers coming from certain African and South American countries.
Malaria Prevention: Please see other frequently asked question on Malaria.
The currency used in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD).
There are a variety of methods to pay for goods and services:
- Credit and Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted in most establishments, especially in urban areas. American Express and Diners Club cards are less widely accepted. Inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent any issues with card usage abroad.
- Cash: Carrying some cash in Namibian Dollar and South African Rand (Accepted in most parts of Namibia) can be useful for small purchases, markets, and places where card payments might not be accepted. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns and accept most international cards.
Tipping:
It is customary to tip for services in Namibia.
- Restaurants: Tipping around 10% of the total bill is common if the service charge is not already included. Check the bill; sometimes a service charge is included, in which case additional tipping might not be expected.
- Hotels: Tipping hotel staff, such as porters and housekeeping, is customary.
- Transfers: Tipping transfer drivers isn’t mandatory, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
- Lodges: This depends on the lodge standard and services, please enquire with us or directly with lodge management.
Even though tipping is customary, it is still discretionary, and the amount can vary based on the quality of service you received.