Namibia Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Etosha National Park – One of Africa’s best wildlife viewing spots.
- Skeleton Coast – Remote beauty with shipwrecks and seals.
- Sossusvlei – Towering red dunes in the Namib Desert.
- Swakopmund – A German-influenced seaside town with adventure sports.
- Fish River Canyon – The second-largest canyon in the world.
Language & Culture
Namibia is a multicultural nation with 13 recognized languages, including English (official), Afrikaans, and Oshiwambo. Traditional dances, tribal rituals, and strong community values define local culture.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Long-distance buses and guided tours are common. Self-driving is popular for adventure travelers.
- Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD), also accepts South African Rand (ZAR).
- Food: Game meat (kudu, springbok), maize porridge, and German-influenced dishes are staples.
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| May – October | Dry and cooler | Best for safaris and desert views |
| November – April | Hot and rainy | Fewer tourists, lush landscapes |
Most visitors fly into Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (NAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 300 – 1,500 | From campsites to lodges |
| Meals | 100 – 300 | Local eateries or lodge meals |
| Transport | 150 – 800 | Rental cars or safari packages |
| Activities | 200 – 1,000 | Safari, sandboarding, trekking |
Packing List Suggestions
- Beachwear and hiking shoes
- Light jacket for evenings
- Travel adapter (Europlug)
- Reusable water bottle and sunscreen
- Travel insurance documents
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wa lalapo? | How are you? (Oshiwambo) |
| Nawa | Fine / Okay |
| Tangi unene | Thank you very much |
| Eewa | Yes |
| Aa | No |
| Ndapandula | I thank you |
| Shili? | What? |
| Onda hala … | I want … |
| Ehokololo | Excuse me / Sorry |
| Meho | Come |
| Penda | Go |
| Oshili nawa | It’s good |
| Oshili shi nawa | It’s very good |
| Hafeni | Welcome |
| Shili po | Where is … |
| Onda pula ombili | I need help |
| Omeya | Water |
| Ondjala | Hunger |
| Ke nawa | Not good |
| U shange po | Goodbye |
Health & Safety
- Drink bottled or purified water in rural areas
- Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an endemic country
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
- Emergency number: 10111 (police), 2032276 (medical rescue in Windhoek)
Festivals & Holidays
- Independence Day – March 21, national celebration of freedom and heritage.
- Oshakati Totem Expo – Cultural festival with performances and exhibitions.
- Windhoek Karneval – A German-style carnival held annually in Windhoek.
Sustainable Tourism
- Support community-run conservancies and eco-lodges
- Respect wildlife boundaries and park regulations
- Minimize water and plastic usage during safaris
- Buy handmade crafts directly from artisans
