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About this guide
On the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia has a natural beauty unrivaled in its desert wilderness. From the dunes of the Namib Desert to the booming city of Windhoek, Namibia is a land of heritage, history, and hospitality. Travelers can visit traditional Himba villages, the historical town of Lüderitz, and cultural sites like Heroes' Acre. Whether looking for outdoor adventures or a relaxing beach day, Namibia promises an unforgettable journey on the Atlantic coast.
- Best time to travel: May to September (peak season), December to March (off-season), April to May, November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central Africa Time (CAT)
- Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD)
- Language(s): English, Oshiwambo, Afrikaans
- Noteworthy: Bank Windhoek Arts Festival (February), Enjando Street Festival (March), Himba Cultural Festival (May), Oktoberfest Namibia (October)
- Best for: Wildlife Enthusiasts, Eco-conscious Tourism, Outdoor Adventurers, Authentic Southern African Cuisine
Get Away: Getting To And Around Namibia, Africa
By Air
Fly into Namibia through Hosea Kutako International Airport, located less than 30 miles from the capital city of Windhoek. Many international airlines offer connecting flights through hubs like Johannesburg and Frankfurt, Germany. Direct flights from major African and European cities make Namibia accessible for travelers worldwide.
By Car
Renting a vehicle is the most convenient option, especially for visiting remote areas like Etosha National Park or the Namib Desert. Namibia’s well-maintained road network makes self-driving easy, but it's essential to choose a 4x4 vehicle for off-road adventures. Gas stations can be far apart in rural areas, so make sure to plan for fuel stops.
By Public Transit
Travelers can get around by using the main Intercape intercity buses, which connect major cities like Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay. Public transit in Namibia is limited and may not run on fixed schedules, but minibus taxis are available in urban areas. For more flexibility, organized tours or private shuttles are great options for exploring popular attractions.
Explore Namibia, Africa On Foot
Namibia has amazing walking tours and hiking adventures with stunning landscapes like the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei, and Damaraland. For city walks, Windhoek offers a safe and enjoyable experience with artisan markets, tribal museums, and local eateries. Remember to always carry water and sun protection in Namibia’s hot and dry climate, especially in rural or desert regions.
Quick facts
Central Africa Time (CAT)
Namibian Dollar (NAD)
English, Oshiwambo, Afrikaans
Good For
Wildlife Enthusiasts
Sustainable Eco-Tourism
Outdoor Adventurers
Authentic Southern African Cuisine
Keep in mind
- Bank Windhoek Arts Festival (February)
- Enjando Street Festival (March)
- Himba Cultural Festival (May)
- Oktoberfest Namibia (October)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Namibia, Africa
Crafted by Hamburg-trained chef Thomas Rechter, Joe’s Beerhouse offers everything from burgers and seafood to soups and salads. The atmosphere of this iconic beer garden-turned-thriving pub complements the varied menu, making it a top-rated eatery.
The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro in Windhoek serves bold regional dishes like Namibian Ribeye and South African Peppermint Tart. From starters to dessert, every dish uses locally sourced ingredients to celebrate vibrant flavors and specialty recipes.
The classic menu at the Butcher Block Steakhouse features 21-day wet-aged steaks, burgers, and chicken prepared to perfection. Guests can indulge in delicious cocktails and desserts like the Dom Pedro and the South African Malva pudding.
Wilde Eend Bistro serves classic American and African breakfast platters, burgers, salads, and open sandwiches. With a relaxing outdoor space under Camelthorn trees, guests often relax while sipping refreshing handmade coffee, juices, or smoothies.
The Tug Restaurant serves seafood, fresh produce, and top-grade meats expertly prepared in a charcoal-fired Josper oven using mopane wood. Placed on the Namibian coastline, this rustic spot also offers tempting desserts and a selection of South African wines.
Wild Rocket Swakopmund features locally roasted Two Beards coffee, South African-style flapjacks, and an extensive cocktail selection. With friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere, this is a perfect brunch spot to enjoy a delicious Namibian meal.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Namibia, Africa
Located near their private airfield and lodging, the Solitaire Namibia has everything from hiking and mountain biking to the Cheetah Sanctuary. End the day in a classic Land Cruiser before taking in breathtaking scenic views of the Namib Desert.
Visitors witness the stunning clash of ocean waves and towering sand dunes on this exclusive Scenic Sandwich Harbour Tour. This small group excursion traverses Swakopmund to spot wildlife with guided insights into the unique Namibian ecosystem.
Book the exhilarating off-road Swakopmund Quad Bike Tour to drive across the golden sand dunes. A guide provides safety gear for the adrenaline-pumping ATV rides through these unique desert landscapes.
The Living Desert Eco Dune Tour highlights Namibia’s unique wildlife and ecosystems including the flora and fauna. This informative tour has an expert guide offering hotel pickup for nature enthusiasts seeking a simple and immersive experience.
The Scenic Game Drive Activity makes an exciting afternoon of big game spotting at Düsternbrook Guest Farm. See diverse wildlife like wildebeest and giraffes before visiting the on-site dam to watch the resident hippo herd.
See the sun rise during a flight over the vast sand dunes and Namibian mountains on the one-hour Namib Sky Ballooning. After landing, visitors can indulge in a luxurious "Out of Africa" champagne breakfast in the heart of the desert before taking a scenic nature drive back.
Book the Pelican Point Kayaking Half-Day Tour to kayak alongside thousands of Cape fur seals in their natural habitat. Led by a local expert guide through the scenic lagoon and salt mines, this 4x4 adventure also includes breakfast.
Learn how to prepare authentic local dishes like mahangu pap and kapana meat grill using fresh, local ingredients in a Traditional Namibia Cooking Class. Enjoy a hands-on experience with a local instructor, learn new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of Namibian farming.
