Namibia

Namibia: general info for travelers

Namibia is located in southern Africa and has a population of about 2.5 million people. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Namib Desert, the Sossusvlei sand dunes, and the Fish River Canyon. Namibia is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with many tribal communities still living traditional lifestyles. Namibia is a popular destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring the African continent.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Namibia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Namibia: places to visit

Sure, I'd be happy to help! Namibia is a beautiful country with many amazing places to visit. Here are some of the main places to see: 1. Sossusvlei dunes – The sand dunes of Sossusvlei are an iconic image of Namibia, and they are some of the highest dunes in the world. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes and enjoy stunning views of the desert landscape.
2. Etosha National Park – A popular safari destination, Etosha National Park is home to a range of wildlife species, including elephants, lions, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can explore the park on guided tours or on their own.
3. Fish River Canyon – The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world and a beautiful natural wonder of Namibia. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike along the canyon and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Swakopmund – This coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, German architecture, and unique cultural heritage. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Namibian coastline.
5. Windhoek – Namibia's capital city, Windhoek, is a cosmopolitan hub with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the city's museums, art galleries, and parks, and sample the local cuisine.
6. Skeleton Coast National Park – This beautiful and wild coastal park is home to a range of flora and fauna, including seals, dolphins, and whales. Visitors can explore the park's dramatic coastline and visit shipwrecks and other historic sites.
These are just some of the highlights of Namibia. There are many other amazing places to visit and things to see in this beautiful country.
There is more to see and do in Namibia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Namibia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Namibia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Namibia has a desert climate, which means it is generally hot and dry all year round in most parts of the country. The temperature can get extremely hot during the day, but it can get quite chilly at night.
The best time to visit Namibia is during the cooler, dry season, from May to October. During this time, there is little to no rain, and the temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. This is particularly important if you are planning activities like hiking or safari trips.
The summer months, from November to April, are usually the hottest and wettest time of year in Namibia. Temperatures can soar, particularly from December to February, and there is a high chance of rain. However, this can be a good time to visit if you're interested in seeing the lush vegetation, and many animals migrate to this region during this period.

Namibia: activities and what to do

Namibia offers a wide range of activities and sports for tourists to enjoy. Here are some ideas: 1. Wildlife Safaris and Game Drives: Namibia is home to some of the most beautiful wildlife and nature reserves in Africa. You can go on a safari to Etosha National Park, where you can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
2. Dune Boarding: If you love adventure and want to get an adrenaline rush, then dune boarding in the Namib Desert is a must-try activity. The dunes are some of the highest in the world and are perfect for sandboarding or skiing.
3. Hiking and Trekking: Namibia has many beautiful and scenic hiking trails. You can trek through the Fish River Canyon, climb the Brandberg Mountain, or explore the Waterberg Plateau for a spectacular view over the park.
4. Water Sports: The coast of Namibia is perfect for water sports such as kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing.
5. Cultural Experiences: You can visit local Himba or Herero communities, take part in traditional dances, or learn about local crafts such as basket weaving.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other activities and sports to do on holiday in Namibia depending on your interests.

Namibia: few words on history and culture

Namibia has a rich and diverse history and culture. The earliest inhabitants of Namibia were the San people, who left behind rock art that is still visible in many parts of the country. Later, Bantu-speaking groups migrated to the region, and many of them still reside in Namibia today, including the Himba, Herero, and Owambo people.
Namibia was a German colony from the late 19th century until the end of World War I, after which it became a South African-administered territory. The struggle for independence began in the 1950s and Namibia finally gained its independence in 1990.
Namibia is home to several indigenous languages, including Oshiwambo, Damara/Nama, Herero, and many others. English is the official language, but many Namibians also speak German and Afrikaans.
The country is known for its rich wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras, and its stunning landscapes, including the Skeleton Coast, the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, and the Etosha National Park. Namibia is also home to several unique cultures, including the Himba people who have a distinctive appearance due to their red ochre body paint and hair braids.

Namibia: how to move around on holiday

There are a few options for reaching and traveling within Namibia: 1. Flight: The easiest and quickest way to reach Namibia is by air. There are international flights available to the capital city of Windhoek, with several airlines operate flights to Namibia.
2. Car rental: Renting a car is a popular and convenient way to travel around Namibia. There are several car rental companies with a wide range of vehicles, including 4x4s, available for rent.
3. Public transport: Public transportation in Namibia includes buses and minibusses, which connect major cities and towns. However, it’s important to note that public transportation in Namibia may not be as reliable or frequent as in other countries.
4. Guided tours: If you prefer to have a guided experience, there are several tour companies that offer trips to Namibia. These tours usually include transport, accommodation, and a guide who can provide valuable information about the country.
Ultimately, the best means of transport for you will depend on your preferences and travel style. To hire a car to visit Namibia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Namibia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Namibia with a full stomach:D
Namibia has a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of indigenous cuisines and influences from its German and South African colonial past. Some of the main typical foods of Namibia include: 1. Biltong - A type of dried and cured meat that is similar to beef jerky. Biltong can be made from various types of meat, such as beef, kudu, ostrich, or springbok. It is often eaten as a snack or added to salads.
2. Potjiekos - A traditional stew that is cooked in a three-legged cast-iron pot over an open fire. The stew usually contains meat (such as beef or lamb), vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and onions), and spices. It is a popular dish for camping and outdoor gatherings.
3. Braaivleis - A type of barbecue that is popular in Namibia. It typically consists of various types of meat, such as beef, lamb, or boerewors (a type of spicy sausage), cooked over an open flame. The meat is often served with maize porridge and grilled vegetables.
4. Kapana - A street food that originated in Namibia's northern regions. It is made from skewered and grilled chunks of beef that are seasoned with spices and served with chili sauce and onion rings. Kapana is often accompanied by a local spirit called 'Oshikundu' or a cold beer.
5. Mopane worms - A unique delicacy in Namibia and other parts of southern Africa, mopane worms are the caterpillars of the mopane moth. The worms are usually dried and then fried or boiled before being eaten. They have a nutty, earthy flavor and are high in protein.
6. Namibian oysters - Grown in the nutrient-rich cold waters off the Namibian coast, these oysters are considered some of the best in the world. They are often served raw with lemon wedges and a variety of condiments.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique foods that are found in Namibia.

Namibia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Namibia can be considered a moderately expensive country for tourists when compared to other African destinations. Prices for accommodations, activities, transportation, and food can vary depending on the season, location, and type of service. However, there are also budget-friendly options available such as camping or staying in guesthouses instead of luxury lodges. It is important to plan and budget accordingly.

Namibia: where to find accodation

There are various options to look for accommodation in Namibia. Here are some popular ones: 1. Online travel agencies such as Booking.com, Expedia, or Tripadvisor can provide a wide selection of accommodation options including hotels, lodges, guest houses, and camping sites.
2. You can check the official website of Namibia Tourism Board which provides a comprehensive list of accommodation options throughout the country.
3. Another option is to directly contact the accommodation places you are interested in staying at, by visiting their website or contacting them through email or phone.
4. Namibia has many national parks, and some of them offer their own accommodations, such as lodges, campsites or chalets. So, you can also check with the park authorities or book through their official websites.
5. Finally, if you're looking to go off the beaten path, you could consider staying in homestays or community-run lodges which would offer an authentic local experience.
You can check hotel prices in Namibia here:
Booking.com

Namibia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Namibia received around 1.7 million tourists in 2019, according to the World Bank. The top months for tourism are usually between June and August, which is Namibia's winter season, when wildlife viewing is at its best, and the weather is cooler. Christmas and New Year's holidays are also busy periods, and it's essential to book accommodations and safari tours in advance during these times. However, Namibia is a vast country with mostly wilderness areas, and even during the peak season, it doesn't get very crowded, and you can still enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded safari experience.
Namibia is considered a safe country for tourists, with relatively low crime rates. However, like any other country, it is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas. There are some areas that are considered more dangerous, particularly after dark, such as Katutura in Windhoek.
It is also recommended to avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles, and to be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
When it comes to natural hazards, such as wildlife encounters, it is important to adhere to park rules and guidelines, and to never approach or provoke wild animals.
Overall, with responsible travel and precautionary measures, Namibia is a wonderful destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Namibia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Namibia: events for tourists

Namibia is a country rich in cultural events and activities for tourists. Some of the most interesting events or festivals to attend in Namibia include: 1. Namibia Tourism Expo: This annual event attracts thousands of visitors from all around the world, and it's a great opportunity to explore Namibia's diverse range of tourism products and services.
2. The Windhoek Jazz Festival: Jazz enthusiasts should attend this festival which is held annually in November, and features local and international jazz artists.
3. The Kuomboka Festival: This cultural event takes place annually in April and celebrates the move of the Lozi people to higher ground as the flood waters rise in the Zambezi River.
4. The Caprivi Arts Festival: This festival is a showcase of the cultural heritage of the people of the Caprivi region, with performances of traditional music, dance, and drama.
5. The Swakopmund Arts Festival: This annual event is a celebration of the rich cultural diversity of Namibia, and features art exhibitions, live music, dance, and theatre performances.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events that take place in Namibia, and each one showcases the country's unique cultural heritage and diverse range of experiences.

Namibia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Namibia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Namibia is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes and rich cultural history. Here is a recommended two-week travel itinerary: Day 1-2: Windhoek Start your trip in Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Spend the first day exploring the city, visiting the National Botanical Garden, and learning about the culture and history of Namibia at the National Museum of Namibia.
Day 3-4: Sossusvlei Drive to Sossusvlei which is a famous attraction in Namibia. It is one of Africa’s most mesmerizing and hauntingly beautiful landscapes due to the way the winds have shaped the dunes over time. The area is best known for its towering red sand dunes, which are some of the highest in the world. Day 5-6: Swakopmund Next, head north to Swakopmund, a coastal town where you can relax and take part in all sorts of activities, including sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving. Day 7: Damaraland Now, head towards Damaraland. The drive will take you through picturesque landscapes, rocky valleys, and stunning sunsets. Day 8-9: Etosha National Park Explore the famous Etosha National Park. Go game viewing here and spot the Big Five.
Day 10-11: Caprivi Strip Travel to the Caprivi Strip, which is a narrow strip of land extending from Namibia's northeast. This region is home to many waterways, national parks, and wildlife reserves.
Day 12-13: Kavango Region Visit the Kavango region, where you can go canoeing, visit traditional villages, and observe local weaving and crafts.
Day 14: Return to Windhoek On the last day, return to Windhoek for departure.
This itinerary is just a starting point and can be modified based on your interests and preferences.

Namibia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Namibia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Brandberg is a mountain located in the Erongo region of Namibia and is the highest peak in the country, standing at 2,573 meters tall. It is renowned for its distinctive granite formations and is home... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brandberg
- Bwabwata National Park is a protected wildlife reserve located in Namibia, Africa. It covers an area of approximately 6,100 square kilometers and was established in 2007 as a merger of two previous re... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bwabwata National Park
- Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a protected area located on the west coast of Namibia. It is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world, with an estimated population of around 200,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cape Cross Seal Reserve
- Damaraland is a vast and rugged region located in northwestern Namibia, known for its stunning desert landscapes, rock formations and ancient cultural heritage of the Damara people. It's a semi-arid a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Damaraland
- Dorob National Park is a protected area located in the coastal desert region of Namibia, stretching along the Atlantic Ocean from Walvis Bay to Sandwich Harbour. The park covers approximately 1,600 sq... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dorob National Park
- Epupa Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Kunene River on the border of Namibia and Angola in southern Africa. It is situated in the rugged and remote Kaokoland region of Namibia. The falls ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Epupa Falls
- The Erongo Mountains is a mountain range situated in central Namibia, near the town of Omaruru. The landscape is characterized by rocky peaks, boulder-strewn slopes, and vast plains. The Erongo Mounta... CONTINUE here for a trip to Erongo Mountains
- Etosha National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, located in the northern part of the country. It covers an area of over 22,000 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of animal species... CONTINUE here for a trip to Etosha National Park
- Fish River Canyon is a massive natural gorge located in southern Namibia, Africa. It is one of the largest canyons in the world, stretching for approximately 160 kilometers with a depth of up to 550 m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fish River Canyon
- Goanikontes Oasis is a scenic lodge located in the heart of the Namibian desert, just a few kilometers away from the town of Swakopmund. The lodge is set in a stunning landscape of granite rocks and d... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goanikontes Oasis
- Grootberg Pass is a mountain pass in the Kunene region of Namibia. It is located in the northwestern part of the country, and offers stunning panoramic views of the desert landscape and surrounding mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grootberg Pass
- Grootfontein is a town located in the Otjozondjupa Region in Namibia. It is situated in the northern part of the country and serves as the commercial center of the surrounding agricultural and mining ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grootfontein
- Hoanib Valley is a remote, wilderness area located in northwestern Namibia. It is known for its stunning, rugged landscapes, and unique wildlife, including desert-dwelling elephants, giraffes, and lio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hoanib Valley
- The Hoba Meteorite is the largest known meteorite on Earth and is located in northern Namibia. It weighs over 60 tons and is estimated to be around 190 million years old. The meteorite is believed to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hoba Meteorite
- Hobatere Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in the Hobatere Concession of Damaraland in northwestern Namibia. The lodge is nestled in the scrubby bushveld and offers stunning views of the surround... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hobatere Lodge
- Kamanjab is a small town located in the northwestern part of Namibia, near the border with Angola. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is primarily known for its proximity to the Etosha Nat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kamanjab
- Kaokoland is a remote region located in the northwestern part of Namibia, bordering Angola. It is home to the Himba people, who are known for their distinct red ochre colored skin and traditional life... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaokoland
- Khaudum National Park is a protected area in the northern part of Namibia, bordering with Botswana. It covers over 3,800 square kilometers and is known for its vast wilderness, unique wildlife, and ru... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khaudum National Park
- Luderitz is a coastal town located in southwestern Namibia, along the Atlantic Ocean. It was founded in the late 19th century and is named after German merchant Adolf Lüderitz who set up a trading pos... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luderitz
- Marienfluss Valley is a remote area located in the northwestern region of Namibia, near the border with Angola. The valley is named after the Marienfluss River, which runs through it and is surrounded... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marienfluss Valley
- Mowani Mountain Camp is a luxurious safari lodge located in a remote wilderness area of Damaraland in Namibia. The camp is nestled amongst granite boulders, overlooking stunning views of the surroundi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mowani Mountain Camp
- Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world, in the western part of Namibia. The park is the largest in the country and covers an area of over 49,000 sq... CONTINUE here for a trip to Namib-Naukluft National Park
- Nkasa Rupara National Park is a protected area located in the Zambezi Region of Namibia. The park is situated on the edge of the Okavango Delta and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nkasa Rupara National Park
- Okahandja is a town located in Namibia, approximately 70 kilometers north of the capital city Windhoek. It is situated in the central region of the country and is known for its cultural heritage, trad... CONTINUE here for a trip to Okahandja
- Okonjima is a private game reserve located in central Namibia, about 50 kilometers south of Otjiwarongo. It is known for its successful cheetah and leopard conservation projects, and visitors can enjo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Okonjima
- Omaruru is a small town located in the Erongo region of Namibia. It is situated approximately 240 km west of the capital city, Windhoek, and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Omaruru
- Otjiwarongo is a small town located in central Namibia, about 250km north of the capital city, Windhoek. It is situated in the heart of the country's cattle farming region and is often referred to as ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Otjiwarongo
- Palmwag is a small settlement located in the Kunene region of Namibia. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Palmwag Concession area, which offers stunning views of mountains, plains... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palmwag
- Serra Cafema is a luxury safari camp situated in the remote Hartmann Valley on the banks of the Kunene River in Namibia. It is located in the Kunene region, close to the border with Angola. The camp i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Serra Cafema
- Sesfontein is a small settlement located in the Northern part of Namibia, near the border with Angola. The community is mostly made up of the Himba and Herero tribes, who still practice their traditio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sesfontein
- Sesriem is a small settlement located in the Namib-Naukluft Park, in the southern part of Namibia. It is mainly known for being the entrance to the famous Sossusvlei sand dunes, which are some of the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sesriem
- Skeleton Coast is a stretch of coastline in Namibia, located in the northern part of the country along the Atlantic Ocean. It spans over 500 kilometers and is known for its rugged desert terrain, ship... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skeleton Coast
- Sossusvlei is a place located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in Namibia, Africa. It is a part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa. Sossusvle... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sossusvlei
- Spitzkoppe is a group of granite peaks located in the Namib Desert in Namibia. It is also referred to as the "Matterhorn of Namibia". The area is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Spitzkoppe
- Swakopmund is a coastal city in Namibia, located on the western side of the country. It has a population of approximately 44,000 people. The city's architecture is influenced by its German colonial pa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Swakopmund
- Tsondab Valley is a remote valley located in central Namibia. It is known for its stunning desert scenery, with towering sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and ancient riverbeds. The valley is also home to a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsondab Valley
- Twyfelfontein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Damaraland, Namibia. It is known for its concentration of rock engravings and paintings, created by early inhabitants of the area, and is consi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Twyfelfontein
- Uis is a small town located in the Erongo region of Namibia. It is situated approximately 220 km west of the capital city, Windhoek and lies along the main road that connects the coast with inland tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uis
- Walvis Bay is a popular coastal city located in Namibia, Africa. It is the largest port in the country and serves as an important hub for fishing and shipping industries. The city is known for its stu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Walvis Bay
- Waterberg Plateau Park is a nature reserve and protected area located in central Namibia, approximately 68 kilometers east of Otjiwarongo. The park covers 405 square kilometers and is home to a variet... CONTINUE here for a trip to Waterberg Plateau Park
- Windhoek is the capital and largest city of Namibia, located in the central Khomas Region. It has a population of around 300,000 people, making it the country's political, economic, and cultural cente... CONTINUE here for a trip to Windhoek


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