Ultimate Trans Africa Expedition
38 weeks From GBP 4850 More about this trip
Cairo to Cape Town Nile Trans
16 weeks From GBP 2395 More about this trip
Cape Town to Nairobi Epic
6 weeks From ZAR 12995 More about this trip
Dar Es Salaam to Cape Town
5 weeks From ZAR 11695 More about this trip
Discover South West Africa
21 days From ZAR 6495 More about this trip
Complete Desert and Delta
21 days From EUR 1885 More about this trip
Magic Namibia
14 days From ZAR 4495 More about this trip
Waterfalls and Sand Dunes
14 days From ZAR 4495 More about this trip
Namibian Discoverer
10 days From ZAR 12900 More about this trip
Cape Town to Swakopmund
7 days From ZAR 3195 More about this trip
Swakopmund to Cape Town
7 days From ZAR 3195 More about this tripBuild Your Trip to Africa
About Namibia
Namibia backpacking tours are famous for the country's wide range of stunning natural attractions. Beaches, deserts, sand dunes and much more await the traveler seeking the ultimate desert adventure in Namibia.Namibia Budget Travel
Below is a list of Namibia's top destinations, click on the link to view all details and tours.
Etosha National Park, Himba Village, Luderitz, Skeleton Coast National Park, Sossusvlei, Spitzkoppe, Swakopmund, Waterberg Plateau, Windhoek
Fast Facts
- Currency
- Namibian dollar (NAD)
- Dialing Code
- 264
Airports
Namibia airports include:• Hosea Kutako Windhoek International Airport
• Walvis Bay Airport
• Luderitz Airport
Read more on Airports in Namibia.
Birdlife
Namibia birdlife varies from coastal birds to wetland species, with a diverse range of habitats ranging from desert to coastal regions as well as woodlands and forest to some extent. There are about 19 Important Bird Areas (IBA's) in Namibia, and an estimated 630 recorded species, with only one endemic species.Read more on birdlife in Namibia.
Conservation
Namibia conservation is fairly progressive, with a number of initiatives including eco-tourism and controlled hunting projects in the country. Some of the biggest conservation efforts lie in protecting key endangered species such as cheetah, wild dog and rhino, and the country also has some of Africa's top game reserves and national parks which preserve a wide range of animal and plant species.Read more on conservation in Namibia.
Culture
Namibia culture influences include the following:• Afrikaans, German and traditional African cultures provide a mixture of influences and cultural heritages
• Festivals are a popular aspect of current Namibian culture
• Sports are a popular pastime in the country
• Music and dance plays a key role in many local cultures
• Literature is important for ancient and current cultures
Read more on culture in Namibia.
Health
Namibia health care is a lot more advanced than many African countries, and Windhoek has a number of fair medical facilities. Generally, health risks are fairly low and water is safe to drink in almost all areas. The country is mostly malaria-free, except for areas around Caprivi, and if travellers take basic health precautions during their travels there should be no cause for concern.Read more on health in Namibia.
AIDS
Namibia HIV/AIDS is a major concern, with a prevalence rate of 15.3% in adults of 15 years and older. This comes to an estimated 180,000 people living with HIV or AIDS by the end of 2007, with a recorded 5,100 AIDS related deaths in 2007. There are approximately 14,000 children of 15 years or younger living with HIV or AIDS, and about 61% of women are affected.Vaccinations
Namibia inoculations include:• Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A
• Malaria
• Rabies
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever (if coming from an infected zone)
Read more on Vaccinations in Namibia.
Languages
Namibia languages include:• English (official language)
• Oshiwambo
• Afrikaans
• German
Read more on languages in Namibia.
Money
Namibia money and banking information includes:• ATMs can be found in all major cities
• US Dollars and South African Rands are often accepted at major retailers
• Most large hotels, game parks and shops accept credit cards
• Travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks, airports or hotels
• Banking hours are Monday to Friday 09h00-15h30 and Saturday 09h00-11h00
Read more on money in Namibia.
Phrase
Namibia local phrases in Afrikaans include:• Good morning - Goeimore
• How are you? - Hoe gaan dit?
• I'm fine - Goed
• Please - Asseblief
• Thank you - Dankie
Read more on phrase in Namibia.
Plants
Namibia plant life is varied and diverse, with a range of desert plants to be found including baobab and grasses, plus coastal and wetlands vegetation. There are about 200 endemic plant species in the country, and a total of 120 tree species. Vegetation regions include savannah which covers 64%, dry woodlands and forests which cover 20% while desert vegetation covers 16% of the country.Read more on plants in Namibia.
People
Namibia people include the following groups:• Ovambo 50%
• Kavangos 9%
• Herero 7%
• Damara 7%
• Nama 5%
• Caprivian 4%
• Bushmen 3%
• Baster 2%
• Tswana 0.5%
Read more on people in Namibia.
Safety Tips
Namibia safety tips include the following:• Namibia is generally a safe and friendly travel destination
• Petty crime such as muggings, pick-pocketing and car break-ins are more common in the cities
• Keep valuables out of sight and secure, and carry a certified copy of your ID at all times
• Avoid travelling alone through the desert areas as it can be easy to get lost
• Be cautious in game reserves and do not leave the camp to wander alone as wildlife can be present at any time
Read more on safety tips in Namibia.
Religion
Namibia religion includes:• Christian 80%
• Indigenous beliefs 20%
Read more on religion in Namibia.
Transport
Namibia local transport options include:• Car
• Bus
• Train
• Taxi
Read more on transport in Namibia.
Travel Books
Namibia recommended travel books include:• Namibia: The Bradt Travel Guide by Chris McIntyre
• Namibia Footprint Handbooks by Lizzie Williams
• Namibia Insight Guide by Apa
• Namibia Globetrotter Travel Pack by Willie Olivier and Sandra Olivier
• Namibia Lonely Planet Travel Guide by Deanna Swaney
Read more on travel books in Namibia.
Visa Requirements
Namibia visa information is as follows:• Most nationals do not require a visa for Namibian travel
• Check with your local embassy to ensure that your country does not require a visa before you travel to Namibia
• A valid passport of 6 months minimum is required
• Visas are generally valid for up to 3 months
• Visa requirements can change at any time, so be sure to contact your local embassy to stay up to date
Read more on Visa Requirements in Namibia.
Wildlife
Namibia wildlife is diverse and fairly rich, with a wide range of species including large mammals, smaller mammals, desert-dwelling species plus coastal species. There are 8 species endemic to Namibia, and the country also has the largest cheetah population in Southern Africa among other large game ranging from lion to elephant. The country has a number of prime game parks where large concentrations of wildlife can be seen.Read more on wildlife in Namibia.
What To Pack
What to pack for Namibia safaris:• Neutral coloured clothing in lightweight fabric
• Comfortable walking shoes as well as sandals
• Swimming costume and spare beach towels
• Camera, batteries plus spare film or memory cards
• Warm jacket for cooler weather
Read more on what to pack in Namibia.
What To Buy
What to buy for Namibia safaris:• Namibia travel guide and local phrase book
• Binoculars for bird and game viewing
• Sturdy backpack plus a decent moneybag to keep valuables safe
• Sleeping bag and camping mattress if you are on an overlanding tour
• First aid kit with a range of supplies and basic medicine
Read more on what to buy in Namibia.
When To Go
When to go to Namibia:• The best time to visit is between May and September in the cooler months
• The winter months from April to October are best for Caprivi game viewing
• December and January are the busiest times along coastal areas
• October to March is the best time to visit the Namib coast
• The heaviest rains fall from January to April
- Mixo14 Sep 2012
-
Hi Daniel, This will depend on the areas you would like to visit in Namibia, I will email you a few options of our trips. Cheers!!
- daniel14 Sep 2012
-
are they activities for children at the age of 8 to 12?
- Minette - OverlandingAfrica.com11 May 2012
-
Hi Jewel, the hottest months in Namibia are from November to February (average temperatures, 20-36 degree celsius)- however I have personally experienced 50 degree celsius plus in January in Sossusvlei! Happy trails.
- Jewel11 May 2012
-
I was wondering, how hot it does it get in Namibia in the summer months?
- Cecilia17 Jan 2011
-
Ons gaan Namibie in Julie besoek, ons is al opgewonde. Ons toer so aan die onderkant deur, sou graag meer wou kamp, maar nou ja mens kan nie altyd alles kry wat jy wil he nie.
- Dayne - OverlandingAfrica.com26 Oct 2010
-
Hi GB, Overland travel is a great way to travel with like minded people and a great way to explore Namibia. We have weekly departures on tours travelling from Cape Town to Windhoek and Swakopmund. Accommodation in Swakopmund can vary from Backpackers to hotel and lodge accommodation. For long term stays I suggest contacting an estate agency or tourism office in Swakopmund. Alternatively I will be more that willing to book accommodation for you for after your tour.Cheers
- GB25 Oct 2010
-
I am a single mature 50 lady, born in Namibia, currently living in Cape Town. I want to visit my home town either with a private car with people or whatever and travel through Namibia. I might even want to stay there in future and need a room at first (not expenseive) in Swakop to start with. Can you help?
- Alissa11 Oct 2010
-
The tour through Namibia was stunning! We saw lots of animals!
- Kelly Morehead18 Aug 2010
-
How can you claim Namibia is doing more in Ecotourism? They allow 80,000 seals to be slaughtered every year? Eco Tourism would be stopping the hunt and offering more tours of the seals.
- Tania - OverlandingAfrica.com20 Apr 2010
-
Hi Katherine, Lots to choose from. We will ring Grahams cell phone as soon as it is a reasonable hour over there! Chat soon!
- Katherine Windley19 Apr 2010
-
We are stranded in Cape Town from 20th - 29th April due to UK airports closed. There is just me or possibly my brother. We are interested in any tours operating within this time zone to any of the surrounding countries, Namibia/Botswana/Vic Fall...etc. Do you have any tours that we could get onto?
- Tania - OverlandingAfrica.com05 Oct 2009
-
Personally, I like the winter months (May-Sept) when its a bit cooler during the day. But keep in mind that the temperature can be below freezing in the desert at night. This is also prime game viewing time in Namibia.
- Andrea05 Oct 2009
-
When is the best time of year to travel to Namibia?
- Tania - OverlandingAfrica.com25 Aug 2009
-
Hi Jag Van, All countries need a visa in advance for Angola. Contact your closest Angolan embassy for info. It is approx 435 kms from Namutoni to Ruacana and you should be able to do it within a day depending on road conditions. The falls should be fairly full during August as July is a rainy month in Southern Africa. Good luck!
- Jag Van25 Aug 2009
-
Can I enter Angola without a visa at Ruacana falls (US citizen). How much time to drive from eastern side of Etosha national park and by end of August, would the falls be full or barren? Thanks.
6 Namibia Overland Tours recommended for you
Ultimate Trans Africa Expedition 38 weeks From GBP 4850
London to Cairo
Cape Town to Nairobi Epic 6 weeks From ZAR 12995
Cape Town to Nairobi
Discover South West Africa 21 days From ZAR 6495
Victoria Falls to Cape Town
Magic Namibia 14 days From ZAR 4495
Swakopmund to Victoria Falls
Namibian Discoverer 10 days From ZAR 12900
Windhoek to Windhoek
Swakopmund to Cape Town 7 days From ZAR 3195
Swakopmund to Cape Town
Recent Feedback
I consider every moment of Overlanding Africa's efforts to have surpassed my hopes and expectations. T.J. and Bervin, our crew, were knowledgeable, kind, and genuine. I felt s...
— Diane P from United States
Thanks much. I'm really tickled I discovered you folks. Again I say: "you rock!". (To shamelessly borrow your company's response, to some of our initial inquiries.)
— John C. (65) from United States
(East Africa Private Charter Trip) Steve our driver... Wow what an amazing, patient driver!!! We felt very very safe with his driving - and on such difficult roads! I couldn't beli...
— Anne M from South Africa
(East Africa Private Charter Trip) Moffat our cook was such a kind, nurturing cook! We called him our chef - or "comrade chef"! He had to deal with 2 vegetarians, 1 vegan who didn'...
— Anne M from South Africa
(East Africa Private Charter Trip) About the crew: These guys were our heroes! First, Kevin our tour leader, was confident, professional, experienced, calm, focused, collaborative...
— Anne M from South Africa
We are back from our trip! *(East Africa Private Charter Trip)* I had to write you and thank you PROFUSELY for all your help in setting up the trip and guiding us on our itinerary....
— Anne M from South Africa
I am planning to travel to Africa within the next 2 months and have reading all the complimentary comments. If it is all true I am keen to be pursuaded your way. Please tell me mo...
— Shirley Miller from United Kingdom
Re Newsletter: This article certainly got my attention and I have saved much of the content. Just to let you know that you are reaching me and that I am paying attention!!! :)
— Ruth from United States
Checked out the Overlanding Africa website the other day - what a fantastic site! Such a shame I didn't find it before I started this trip, has a great design and loads of valuabl...
— Sonya from Australia
I will definitely recommend your services!!
— Perrick from France
Thank you again for making our trip as wonderful as it was
— Rick C. from United States
We spent 4 nights at the Mandela Rhodes Hotel in Cape Town and I highly recommend it!
— Rick C. from United States
The boys and I had an absolutely fantastic time in South Africa. Your country is so beautiful, the folks there so nice and accommodating and the trip you put together for us was s...
— Rick C. from United States
I wanted to go to Africa ever since I can remember and going there last month far exceeded my expectations and then some! Louise was so quick to respond to any query I had and the ...
— Anne B (27) from Ireland
The trip was outstanding. Our two guides Albert and Sydney were superb in every way - interest flora and fauna - amazing organization and as people wonderful to meet. We got to pla...
— Tessa Z from Israel
Thank you for making my booking so easy and for the advice you gave me about my stay in Jo'burg too, it really made the entire experience so much more enjoyable. I've already recom...
— Tamsin C (21) from United Kingdom
I did have a great trip, thank you! I was satisfied with your services on such late notice. You were great and I'm just very pleased that you went the extra mile to get me on this ...
— Rannelle M. (32) from United States
…yes there is something else! Always I ask you a question I get a prompt and useful answer! This is the way I like it! You make things so much easier for me. Can I invite you for...
— Dr. Michael T. (49) from Germany
...it was "ABSOLUTELY AMAZING"... from start to end we were taken care of and along the way we made more friends.
— Jaz O (40) from United Kingdom
In regard to the trip, it was "ABSOLUTELY AMAZING", and if wasnt for your exceptional service and last minute request from myself, you got me this perfect adventure at my price and...
— Jaz O (40) from United Kingdom
9 places worth checking out in Namibia
Skeleton Coast National Park
Visit Skeleton Coast National Park on the
Tours through Skeleton Coast National Park
Etosha National Park
Visit Etosha National Park on the Cape Town to Nairobi with Gorilla Trek
Tours through Etosha National Park
Waterberg Plateau
Visit Waterberg Plateau on the Cape Town to Windhoek
Tours through Waterberg Plateau5 things to do before you die
Swakopmund Sandboarding
Do this on the Vic Falls to the Cape Photography Tour.
Tours with Swakopmund Sandboarding
Sossusvlei Guided Walk
Do this on the Vic Falls to the Cape Photography Tour.
Tours with Sossusvlei Guided Walk
Swakopmund Quadbiking
Do this on the Vic Falls to the Cape Photography Tour.
Tours with Swakopmund QuadbikingNamibia Photo Gallery
Namibia


I consider every moment of Overlanding Africa's efforts to have surpassed my hopes and expectations.
T.J. and Bervin, our crew, were knowledgeable, kind, and genuine. I felt s...









