Things To Do
in Namibia

Namibia is a stunning country located in southern Africa, known for its diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to savannas. It is home to the world-renowned Namib Desert, where you can find the iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei. The country boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and wildlife, making it a unique destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

With its low population density, Namibia offers vast open spaces and an opportunity to connect with nature in an unspoiled environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Namib Desert
morning
:

Start your day early with a sunrise visit to the iconic Dunes of Sossusvlei. Hike up Dune 45 for breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Dead Vlei, famous for its ancient, dead camelthorn trees surrounded by stunning white clay and red dunes.

evening
:

Enjoy an authentic Namibian dinner at a local lodge, featuring game meat and traditional dishes under a starry sky.

day 2
Day 2: Wildlife and Culture in Etosha National Park
morning
:

Drive to Etosha National Park for an early morning safari to spot elephants, lions, and rhinos.

afternoon
:

Visit one of the waterholes in the park for an afternoon of wildlife viewing and photography.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and relax with a bush dinner, sharing stories of your day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
🏨Budget hotel per night$30-$80
🚕Taxi fare within the city$5-$10
🥤Local beer$2-$4
🍽️Street food snack$1-$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning and diverse landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Rich cultural heritage and welcoming locals.
  • Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Remote areas can be difficult to access without a vehicle.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • High temperatures in summer can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "Hello" - Hallo
  • "Thank you" - Dankie
  • "Goodbye" - Totsiens
  • "How are you?" - Hoe gaan dit?
  • "Yes" - Ja

Places to Visit in Namibia

Visit one of these nice places.

Dune 45

Famous for its striking red-orange hue and stunning sunrise views, perfect for landscape photography.

Dead Vlei

A surreal landscape of white clay pan dotted with ancient trees, offering a unique contrast for photographers.

Etosha National Park

Offers incredible wildlife photography opportunities, especially at the waterholes where animals congregate.

Culinary Guide

Food in Namibia

Namibia's culinary scene reflects its diverse culture, with influences from indigenous tribes and German settlers, offering a unique gastronomic experience.

Namibia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Biltong

A popular dried meat snack, seasoned and cured, often made from beef or game.

Must-Try!

Potjiekos

A traditional stew slow-cooked in a cast-iron pot, typically including meat, vegetables, and spices.

Kapana

Street food consisting of grilled meat skewers, often served with a spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Windhoek Market

A vibrant market in the capital where you can find fresh produce, meat, and local delicacies.

Swakopmund Street Vendors

Street vendors offering delicious snacks like biltong and kapana in Swakopmund.

Climate Guide

Weather

Namibia experiences a semi-arid climate, with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summers (November to March) are hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), while winters (June to August) are cooler, especially at night, when temperatures can drop to near freezing. Rainfall is mostly concentrated in the summer months, while the dry winter months provide excellent conditions for wildlife viewing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greetings are important; a firm handshake is common, and it's polite to ask about someone’s family.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas; beachwear is acceptable at the coast but not in towns.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by addressing them appropriately and allowing them to speak first in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Namibia is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas, and be cautious with valuables in public places. In rural areas, wildlife can pose risks; adhere to safety guidelines when encountering animals.

Tipping in Namibia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and for guides; rounding up for taxi fares is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (NAD) and South African Rand (ZAR); credit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry cash in remote areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (November to March)

Hot and wet, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and occasional thunderstorms.

Autumn (April to May)

Mild temperatures and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Winter (June to August)

Cool to cold nights but pleasant daytime temperatures; great for game viewing as animals congregate at water sources.

Spring (September to October)

Warm days and cool nights, with the landscape lush from winter rains, attracting migratory birds.

Nightlife Guide

Namibia at Night

Namibia's nightlife is vibrant, especially in Windhoek and Swakopmund, where you can find lively bars, clubs, and cultural shows. Many establishments prioritize a relaxed atmosphere, with options ranging from live music venues to cocktail lounges. It's common to see locals and tourists mingling at popular spots, enjoying drinks and dancing the night away.

Hiking in Namibia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail

A challenging trail that takes you through one of the largest canyons in the world, offering dramatic views and unique geological features.

Brandberg Mountain Trail

A scenic hike in the Brandberg massif, home to ancient rock paintings and stunning vistas.

Airports

How to reach Namibia by plane.

Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport

The main international gateway to Namibia, located about 45 km from Windhoek, offering flights to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Namibia's cities, particularly Windhoek and Swakopmund, are relatively walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and public squares. However, in more rural areas, walkability diminishes due to vast distances between attractions, making a vehicle necessary for exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ovambo

The largest ethnic group in Namibia, primarily found in the northern regions, known for their rich cultural traditions.

Himba

A semi-nomadic pastoralist group in the north, recognized for their distinctive dress and customs, often engaging in tourism.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is hugely popular in Namibia, with many locals actively participating in and following the sport.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and followed, with local leagues and international matches drawing large crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Namibia are generally manageable, with the main roads being in good condition. However, rural areas can have unpaved roads requiring caution. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, but services can be infrequent, so planning ahead is essential.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; consider bringing snacks or informing the restaurant ahead of time.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Namibia are generally good in urban areas, but may be limited in rural regions. Private clinics offer higher-quality care, while public hospitals can be overcrowded. Travelers should have health insurance and consider vaccinations before traveling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Namibia.