Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Namibia depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for NamibiaEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 10111
- Ambulance
- 10177
- Fire
- 10177
Currency
- Name
- Namibian Dollar
- Code
- NAD
- Symbol
- N$
Pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand, which is also accepted. ATMs in Windhoek and major towns. Card payments in lodges and towns; carry cash for rural areas and roadside fuel stops.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type D, Type M
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
WAT (UTC+1) — WAST (UTC+2) in summer
Best Time to Visit
May–October is the dry season — ideal for Etosha game drives (wildlife concentrates at waterholes) and Sossusvlei (clear skies). June–August can be cold at night (0°C) in the desert. November–April is green season with fewer visitors and newborn wildlife.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lodges / camps | $5–10 USD per day (staff pool) | — |
| Game drive guides | $10–15 USD per day | — |
| Restaurants | 10% | — |
| Petrol station attendants | N$5–10 | Attendants fill your tank in Namibia — always tip them |
Dress Code
- Casual and practical — light clothes for day, warm layers for desert nights
- Long sleeves and trousers at dusk (mosquitoes and sun protection)
- Modest dress in Namibian towns and villages
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential
Social Etiquette
- Namibia is one of Africa's most stable democracies — Namibians are proud and reserved
- Greet before asking any question — jumping straight to a request is considered rude
- The Himba (northwest) and San Bushmen (east) communities have distinct cultures — engage through reputable tour operators only
- Self-drive is common — always greet other drivers (the wave is customary on gravel roads)
- Do not photograph communities without asking — some request payment
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Strict wildlife protection — do not feed animals in Etosha or remove natural materials
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal under colonial-era laws — exercise caution
- Self-drive: 4WD is essential for most desert routes; always carry spare tyres and water
- Drone flying requires a Namibia Civil Aviation Authority permit
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Afrikaans) | Goeie môre / Hallo | HOO-ee MOH-ree / HAH-loh |
| Thank you (Afrikaans) | Dankie | DAHN-kee |
| Hello (Oshiwambo) | Wa lalapo? | wah lah-LAH-poh (good morning) |
| Thank you (Oshiwambo) | Tangi | TAHN-gee |
| English is widely spoken in Namibia | Most signs and conversations | German is also spoken in Lüderitz, Swakopmund and some farms |
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