Namibia

Namibia is a gem for those in search of the wilderness.  Namibia is a large and sparsely populated country on Africa's southwest coast, which has enjoyed more than a decade of stability since achieving Independence on 21 March 1990.  Today Namibia is a peaceful country which is economically prosperous as a result of its productive mining, fishing, tourism and agricultural industries.

Namibia is known for its contrasting landscapes.  There is the brooding desolate Namib Desert, said to be the oldest in the world, with its high dunes and awe-inspiring sense of space.  The central plateau, with its thornbush savanna and rugged mountains, rising abruptly from the plains, giving way to the majestic Fish River Canyon in the South.  In the North of the country, landscapes range from dense bush and open plains of the great Etosha pan, to woodland savanna and lush riverine vegetation.

The Etosha National Park, the third largest in Africa, owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of approximately 5 000 km².  A series of waterholes along the southern edge of the pan guarantee rewarding and often spectacular game viewing.  Germanic influence can still be found in the country's good road infrastructure, well-equipped rest camps throughout the country and most cities' architecture.  The perfect choice for nature lovers and amateur photographers alike.

Full Country Name: Republic of Namibia
Area: 825, 000 sq km
Population: 2.32 million (UN 2011)
Capital: Windhoek
Borders: Angola, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Religion: Christian is the main religion of Namibia followed by other indigenous religions
Time Zone: Standard time is two hours in advance of Greenwich Mean Time
Languages: English, Afrikaans and German followed by indigenous languages (Owambo, Herero, Nama, Damara).
Country Dialling Code: +264

 

CLIMATE

Namibia offers a year round fine climate with generally hot days and cool nights.  In the winter months, May to September, the night time temperature can drop below freezing.  In the coastal regions there is little rain but fog is common in the early mornings.  The main rainy season is between October and April.

 

CURRENCY & BANKS

The unit of currency is the Namibian Dollar (N$), which is divided into 100 cents.  The Namibia Dollar and the South African Rand are the only legal tender in Namibia and both can be used freely to purchase goods and services.  The Namibian dollar is fixed to and equals the South African Rand.

 

ELECTRICITY

The general voltage is 220 and frequency is 50 Hz.  Lodges in the more remote areas of Namibia do not have electricity and generally utilise generator power by day for lighting and refrigeration.

As the sockets can vary a ‘Travellers Adaptor Set’ is recommended. Voltage sometimes fluctuates and whilst power cuts are rare, they are not unknown.  It is useful to carry a torch.

 

HEALTH

Health requirements vary from country to country. We recommend you speak to your local Travel Doctor for up-to-date information and advice.  The following information is to be used as a guide only. 

Malaria: It is recommended that precautions against malaria are taken for travel to most regions in Africa. We suggest you contact your doctor for advice on which prophylactic is recommended.

 

ROAD TRAVEL

Please note that road surfaces vary from tarmac, gravel, sand and occasionally vehicles may travel "off road".  Additionally, if visiting remote areas or National Parks and Reserves, the roads may well be rough, bumpy and in a poor condition and may be affected by adverse weather conditions.

 

SELF DRIVE CLIENTS

Although Namibia is widely regarded as a safe destination on a self-drive itinerary you do need to be prepared to drive long distances (typically 5-6 hours from place to place) and seeing very few other tourists.  For this reason it is recommended all self-drive clients book a satellite phone.  It must also be noted that on entry into National Parks, a local fee will have to be paid.

Self-drive clients will be met by a local representative on their first night in Namibia.  This will provide you with an opportunity to discuss your progress and ask any questions you may have. 

Please note, an International Drivers Licence is required when hiring a car in Namibia furthermore, petrol stations in Namibia do not accept credit cards and currently work on a cash only basis.

 

VISA INFORMATION

At the time of writing, no visa for Namibia is required for travellers on Australian Passports. Please double check this with your travel agent as this may change at any time.  You must hold return or onward flight tickets.

We hope that you will find this country Information on Namibia useful for reference when preparing for your holiday.  All the information above was correct at the time of writing and is to be used as a guide only.  Health, visa and other specific details should be double checked by your travel agent at the time of booking.

Namibia, a country of vast open spaces and contrasts, enthrals travellers with its landscapes, wildlife and culture. Travel from the world famous Sossusvlei situated in the oldest desert in the world, with breath-taking sand dunes developed over millions of years to the rolling savannah of the central plateau and the Etosha National Park, one of the finest parks in Africa, and largely undisturbed by human influence. Namibia averages 300 days of sunshine a year with a climate typical of a semi-desert country where droughts are a regular occurrence. The dry winter months from May to August are the best times to visit.

Etosha National Park

Namibia's best-known tourist attraction, and one of the most interesting game reserves in the world because of its unusual terrain, Etosha is a combination of dried lake (salt pan) in the north and grasslands, dense brush and open plains in the south. Etosha National Park is one of the largest and most impressive game reserves in the whole of Africa. The Ovambo name Etosha, means “place of dry water” - and the reserve was named this because of the vast, shallow salt pan which shimmers a silvery bright-white, from salt across its entire surface. Almost all African animal species are represented in the nature reserve. Well maintained gravel roads lead to watering holes, where game viewing is best. The water-holes, scattered throughout this area, are the basis of life for countless wild animals. There are an estimated number of 300 lions in the park, 300 rhinos, 2000 giraffes and 1500 elephants. The park is open all year, but the best time to visit is August-September. The Etosha Park is about 400 km north of Windhoek.

The Skeleton Coast National Park

The attraction of this remote area lies in the colours, changing moods and untouched profiles of the landscape. The aura of mystery and mightiness is largely due to the dense coastal fog and cold sea breezes caused by the cold Benguela Ocean current from the Arctic, and bones scattered along the beaches from which the coast derives its name. The landscape in the park ranges from sweeping vistas of wind swept dunes to rugged canyons with walls of richly coloured volcanic rock and extensive mountain ranges. Its level coastline characterises the park, only occasionally broken by scattered rocky outcrops. The remains of shipwrecks scattered along the coast bear witness to the many ships, which have come to grief along these desolate shores.

Windhoek

Windhoek is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with good hotels, sophisticated shops and convivial bistros. Stately buildings range from the home of Namibia's parliament, to the newly founded Hero's Acre. Day tours can be undertaken into Katutura, several museums in Windhoek, the National Library, National Archives, National Art Gallery and the National Botanical Gardens. The charm of the City of Windhoek lies in its harmonious blend of African and European cultures and the friendliness of its people. Since Independence came to the country on 21 March 1990, it has been characterised by a vitality born of a sense of freedom and pride in self. It’s a peaceful and relaxed city in a country with a proud record of political stability, and is known as one of the cleanest and safest cities on the African continent.
 

Fish River Canyon

The incorporation of the Ai-Ais Hot springs Resort, Fish River Canyon and Huns Mountains in 1989, into one conservation area of 346 117 ha, led to the establishment of the Fish River Canyon Park. The main attraction is its isolated and otherworldly landscape and wealth of interesting xerophytes plants such as the "halfmens" or elephant's trunk. Eroded over many millennia, the Fish River Canyon is the second largest natural gorge in Africa. Set in a harsh, stony plain, with drought-resistant succulents such as the quiver tree, this spectacular natural phenomenon with its full length being 160km - 27km wide and a depth of 550m. The 90km Fish River Canyon hiking trail is regarded as one of the major challenges of Southern Africa and takes about 4-5 days to complete.

Sossusvlei

The entrance gate to the most famous part of the Dune Namib – and no doubt one of Namibia’s most notable sights – is located at Sesriem. From there it is still another good hour’s driving to Sossusvlei. 'Gathering place of water' the Nama called this place. And indeed – amongst the high dunes of the enormous sand sea there is a clay pan, which was clearly formed by water. The pan only fills up once within several years, though, when there has been sufficient rain in the catchment area of the Tsauchab. Usually Sossusvlei is totally dry. The famous star dunes of Sossusvlei tower around the depression, offering thousands of themes to photographers – the most beautiful ones early in the morning and late in the afternoon when light and shadow create a more three-dimensional appearance of the landscape. Do not hesitate to climb a dune! Only from the top will you experience the sheer size of the dunes, and your effort will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the sand sea.

Damaraland

Damaraland is one of the most interesting and dramatic regions in Namibia. Referring primarily to a harsh stretch of burnt mountains and rugged semi-desert, the region is just inland from miles of wild, deserted beaches, littered with ghostly shipwrecks and where you are likely to see dolphins frolicking joyously in the surf.

Namib Naukluft Park

Sand and stones, sun and mirages, blue sky – or stars as far as you can see. Tiny beetles like the Tok Tokkie which collects its supply of moisture by fog-basking. Antelope like the Oryx whose body can heat up to temperatures which no other living being would be able to survive. Plants like the Welwitschia, some of which are already several hundred years old and still growing. The desert – so vast, so isolated, so inhospitable but nevertheless so diverse, so colourful and so much alive. Namib Naukluft Park is the largest nature conservation area in Africa, extending between the tarred road Aus-Lüderitz in the south and the Swakop River in the north, and from the Atlantic coast in the west to the highland in the east.

Swakopmund

Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is a pretty coastal town located 280 km west of Windhoek, with fabulous German colonial architecture.  Well known as a seaside resort and adventure destination, many leisure activities can be enjoyed here, from water sports to sand boarding in the desert dunes

Choose your Experience

Classic Namibia Safari

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Location: Etosha National Park | Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Venture into a world of changing scenery, contrasting unspoilt wilderness and culture on this Luxury Mobile Camping Safari combined with lodges and hotels. A safari crew travelling in a separate vehicle erects the comfortable camp while a professional safari guide travels with you. The group size is limited to eight ensuring personalised attention and utmost comfort. An experienced chef prepares excellent bush cuisine, enjoyed under the stars – experience Namibia in style.

Desert Symphony

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Location: Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Experience this vast land of deserts on a guided tour by road from Windhoek to the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Coast. Take in the monumental sand dunes of the Sossusvlei, the highest in the world, with the best time to experience this ever-changing hue of colours being at sunrise and sunset – it is a photographers dream. Enjoy the many coastal activities on offer from the quaint town of Swakopmund before ending the tour back in Windhoek.

Diverse Namibia

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Location: Etosha National Park | Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Diverse Namibia is an active, exciting adventure, exploring the iconic areas of this vast country with its dunes, desert, plains and superb wildlife, all enhanced by exclusive accommodation in private reserves and concessions. Experience the soaring red dunes of Sossusvlei, the desert and denizens of Damaraland, and the dense plains game and predators of Etosha National Park.

Etosha Safari

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Location: Etosha National Park | Windhoek |

For those with limited time this four-day guided tour is the best way to experience one of the major highlights of Namibia, especially the first time visitor - the Etosha National Park with its amazing wildlife.

Exploring Namibia By Air

Location: Etosha National Park | Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Explore the highlights of Namibia by air – from the dunes of Sossusvlei, the ambience of Swakopmund, an idyllic colonial coastal town and the scenic attractions of Damaraland to the amazingly rich wildlife of the Etosha National Park.

Itenga Wildlife Safari

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Location: Okavango Delta | Livingstone | Chobe National Park | Etosha National Park | Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Explore the diversity of the National Parks and Reserves of Nambia and Botswana. Seek out the wildlife and experience the culture of the Himba people, together with the spectacular scenery of the Sossuslvei and the breathtaking Victoria Falls. The group size is a maximum of 14. The safari crew consists of a professional guide, assistant and chef to pre-erect the camp and responsible for all camp duties.

Namibia Experience

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Location: Windhoek | Etosha National Park | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Enjoy the highlights of Namibia on this guided tour which include the scenery of the Otavi Mountains, Damaraland, coastal diversity of Swakopmund, the monumental dunes of the Sossusvlei, deserts of the Kalahari and Namib, Fish River Canyon, abundant game and salt pans of Etosha National Park, and culture and wildlife experience on a Namibian farm.

Northern Experience

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Location: Cape Town | Okavango Delta | Victoria Falls | Chobe National Park | Etosha National Park | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

A small group semi-participation safari accommodated in chalets and permanent tented camps. The tour spends time travelling from Cape Town to Victoria Falls and includes visits to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Shongololo - The Dune Express

Location: Windhoek | Etosha National Park | Johannesburg | Swakopmund |

Namibia is a country of compelling beauty, abundant sunshine and unconfined space. The wide horizons, the clear unpolluted skies and a population density, which is among the lowest in the world, generate a sense of freedom. This feeling of tranquility and stillness compliments a landscape, which is singular in its colours, full of contrasts of light and shade. The Dune Adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the harsh realities of the desert landscapes as well as the extraordinary natural phenomena resulting from millions of years of erosion and volcanic activity.

Transkalahari Adventure

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Location: Cape Town | Livingstone | Chobe National Park | Etosha National Park | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Enjoy travelling overland from the Victoria Falls in Zambia via the Chobe National Park in Botswana, the waterholes in Etosha National Park and magnificent dunes of the Sossusvlei and Namib Desert in Namibia, to the scenic beauty of the Namaqueland region and ending in Cape Town.

Wilderness Safaris - Ongava Lodge

Location: Etosha National Park |

Wilderness Safaris are a responsible ecotourism and conservation company. The reason they exist is to protect pristine wilderness areas and the flora and fauna - or biodiversity - that they support. They believe that in protecting these areas, and including the local communities in this process, they’ll make a difference to Africa and ultimately the world. Through their safari operations and private access to nearly three million hectares of southern Africa's finest wildlife areas, they offer guests a unique and life-changing experience.

Wilderness Safaris - Serra Cafema

Wilderness Safaris are a responsible ecotourism and conservation company. The reason they exist is to protect pristine wilderness areas and the flora and fauna - or biodiversity - that they support. They believe that in protecting these areas, and including the local communities in this process, they’ll make a difference to Africa and ultimately the world. Through their safari operations and private access to nearly three million hectares of southern Africa's finest wildlife areas, they offer guests a unique and life-changing experience.

Popular areas to visit in Namibia.

Windhoek

A cosmopolitan city, Windhoek is the capital and located in central Namibia in the Khomas Highland plateau area, surrounded by mountains,  at around 1,700m above sea level. The influence of the German colonisation in earlier years with its architecture, language and culture is still noticeable in many ways with the restaurants, cake shops, bread, sausage, beer and the German carnival.

Etosha National Park

Namibia's best-known tourist attraction Etosha National Park was proclaimed as Namibia's first conservation area in 1907, and is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Of the 114 mammal species found in the Park, several are rare and endangered. Etosha is a combination of dried lake (salt pan) in the north and grasslands, dense brush and open plains in the south. Almost all African animal species are represented in the nature reserve. Well maintained gravel roads lead to watering holes, where game viewing is best. Etosha is home to more than 3,000 species of birds and large animals,among them the elephant, giraffe, zebra, leopard, cheetah, lion, kudu, black-faced impala, black rhino and hyena. The park is open all year, but the best time to visit is August-September. The Etosha Park is about 400 km north of Windhoek.

Sossusvlei

The entrance gate to the most famous part of the Dune Namib – and no doubt one of Namibia’s most notable sights – is located at Sesriem. From there it is still another good hour’s driving to Sossusvlei. 'Gathering place of water' the Nama called this place. And indeed – amongst the high dunes of the enormous sand sea there is a clay pan, which was clearly formed by water. The pan only fills up once within several years, though, when there has been sufficient rain in the catchment area of the Tsauchab. Usually Sossusvlei is totally dry. The famous star dunes of Sossusvlei tower around the depression, offering thousands of themes to photographers – the most beautiful ones early in the morning and late in the afternoon when light and shadow create a more three-dimensional appearance of the landscape. Do not hesitate to climb a dune! Only from the top will you experience the sheer size of the dunes, and your effort will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the sand sea.

Swakopmund

Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is a pretty coastal town located 280 km west of Windhoek, with fabulous German colonial architecture.  Well known as a seaside resort and adventure destination, many leisure activities can be enjoyed here, from water sports to sand boarding in the desert dunes.