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Namibia FAQ

Is tipping customary in Namibia?

While not mandatory, a tip of 10% is considered standard when dining in Namibia. With the typical Namibian earning a modest wage, a small tip to porters, housemaids and other service workers would be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Namibia?

Travellers will be able to access the internet quite easily in the cyber cafes of Namibia’s large cities, but limited to no access should be expected in regional and rural areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Namibia?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Namibia's large cities and towns, but less so in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in Namibia?

Depending on which areas of Namibia you are travelling in, expect to encounter a combination of squat toilets and flushable toilets. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a…?

1 hour in a cyber cafe = 8-10 NAD
A bottle of local beer = 15 NAD
Budget lunch = 36 NAD
Sit-down dinner in a nice restaurant = 100 NAD

Can I drink the water in Namibia?

While tap water is considered safe in Namibia's cities, drinking tap water isn't generally recommended in Namibia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Namibia?

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

What is ATM access like in Namibia?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and urban centres, but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the big cities, as ATMs aren't always an option.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Namibia?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Namibia?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Mar 21 Independence Day
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 1 Easter Monday
May 1 Workers' Day
May 4 Cassinga Day
May 9 Ascension Day
May 25 Africa Day
Aug 26 Heroes' Day
Dec 10 International Human Rights Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 26 Family Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Namibia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Namibia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • NAMIBIA:
    Currently visas are not required for most nationalities to enter Namibia. Please check with the relevant visa office before departure to make sure there has been no change.

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Namibia at a glance

  • 23
  • Windhoek (population 161,000)
  • 2.1 million
  • English, Afrikaans
  • NAD
  • (GMT+02:00) Windhoek
  • Type D (Old British 3-pin), Type M (see D)
  • +264

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