English has been the official language since 1990. 80% of the population speak Oshiwambo, Otjiherero or another African language. Likewise, a lot of Afrikaans and German are spoken.

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (N$). The South African Rand (ZAR) is also accepted throughout the country and equal. Both currencies can be freely used in Namibia, but the Namibian Dollar is not a legal tender in South Africa. In many hotels, restaurants and stores credit cards (mostly MasterCard and Visa) are accepted. In rural areas this luxury is not always given, that’s why we recommend you to carry approx. € 100 in Namibian Dollars per week and person with you.

Winter, e.g. May through September is the driest time of year. Spring starts in October, the days become warmer and longer.

The rainfall is highest from December to March. Which does not mean that it is raining constantly. The rain, when it comes, usually falls in the evening, and is often over after a short period of time.

Please note that the seasons are reversed in southern Africa.
Summer time: GMT + 2 hours from the 1st Sunday in September to the 1st Sunday in April.

Winter time: GMT + 1 hour from the 1st Sunday in April to the 1st Sunday in September.

When it’s winter in Europe – it’s summer in Namibia and vice versa. Accordingly, the days are shorter or longer.

Take your time and calculate at least 6 months of planning for your individual trip

 Standard terms and conditions

Don’t carry too much luggage with you, laundry can be taken care of in the lodges (when staying at least 2 nights)

Luggage restrictions in soft bags without frames and wheels:

Maximum 20 kg of luggage/passenger (with 2 passengers in the plane)

Maximum 15 kg of luggage/passenger (with 4 passengers in the plane)

 

Excess luggage can be stored in Windhoek at a surcharge.

If you are planning a trip with routes that you drive yourself, there is of course no luggage restriction in the rental car.

Checklist

Cessna 210 + Cessna Caravan 208

Maximum of 4 passengers per aircraft, e.g. 5 passengers with restricted luggage.

Some car rental companies rent a vehicle against the EU driving license. Others only against the International, which is valid only in connection with the national.

If you have planned a tour cross-border (Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, etc.) the International Driving License is mandatory. It is also an advantage for vehicle inspections or accidents in Namibia.

Our recommendation is therefore the International Driving License – so you are always on the safe side!

The power grid is designed for 220/240 volts AC.
Namibia uses 3-pin plugs. The corresponding adapter plugs (adapters) can be purchased in the country or are also offered on loan at the accommodations.

Please check with your ministry of foreign affairs.

Tourists from Germany, Austria and Switzerland can enter without a visa – if their stay does not exceed 90 days per calendar year and they do not engage in any occupation. A toll-free entry visa (Visitors Entry Permit) for short-term (up to 90 days per calendar year) tourist or business stay without taking up employment is issued on arrival at all official border crossings.

 

It should be noted that the residence permit issued with the “Visitors Entry Permit” often covers a period of less than 90 days. It is therefore strongly recommended to check immediately upon arrival that at least as many days have been approved as actually needed. An overdrawing of the residence permit – even unintentional – can lead to the imposition of drastic (imprisonment) penalties.

Entry requirements for residents of other countries: please turn to your responsible embassy.

 Travelling to and from Namibia with children

Medical services in Namibia are of a very high standard.

There is no mandatory vaccination of travellers from Europe.

Because Namibia does not have many stagnant waters, the risk of malaria transmission is minimal in most parts of the country, or limited to a certain amount of time per year (rainy season).

Nevertheless, always use a mosquito repellent, especially in the evening, at night and in the morning. Wear long clothing in the evening and at night, covering your arms and legs.

Please speak to your doctor prior to your trip concerning Malaria prophylaxis and / or vaccination requirements.

Because of the strong solar radiation, you should always be sure to use sufficient sun protection, such as sun glasses, suntan creme and a hat.

Should you be dependent on electricity for medical reasons, we ask you to please inform us in detail prior to your trip.