Written on
Apr 2, 2024
Namibia, the country in Southwest Africa, is nestled between Zambia and Angola and is arguably the most tourist-friendly destination in Africa. Namibia is also known as “Africa for Beginners’ as it is the ideal destination for people to start their exploration of Africa. The country’s name derives from the world's oldest desert which is located in Namibia known as The Namib. Namibia has an otherworldliness about it, an ethereal, primordial feel, from its glimmering coastline to its plunging sand dunes and spinal mountain range, which run through the heart of the country makes it difficult to think of an iconic landscape that doesn't feature in this beautiful country. Namibia's beauty is unrivalled, with its vast and barren landscapes making you feel like you've fallen off the end of the earth.
An enriching and humbling experience Namibia is one of Southern Africa’s best place to watch wildlife, it is home to a quarter of the world's cheetahs, as well as the last free-ranging population of black Rhino and many well-developed sanctuaries, reserves and safari lodges. But with so many wonderful things to see and do where do you begin? Travelling is a profound experience that fulfils the soul, no matter where your destination is. However, we could all use a little guidance along the way, venturing into the unknown always comes with a few surprises, welcomed or not. Some you know you'll face and others hid throughout your journey. Whether you're an experienced traveller or an amateur who is about to embark on your first adventure, we could all use some helpful tips. Namibia is unlike any destination in the world and calls for a whole new set of travel hacks, ones that demand distinctive tactics to further optimize your Namibian experience.
Tips for your travel to Namibia
Multi-purpose Jacket
This one may seem obvious but is vital if you're planning to travel Namibia as it boasts a variety of different landscapes that bring with it a variety of different weather patterns. Packing something thermal that can provide warmth, yes warmth. Yes, Africa is hot but, when the sun goes down in the desert the temperature drops dramatically and you'll regret not bringing something that will guarantee you warmth. A jacket that is thermal as well as waterproof and will protect you from the wind. These jackets do exist and can be found at any outdoor store around the globe. Nambia experiences short sporadic rainstorms so it's better to be prepared for the worst and expect the best when it comes to weather.
Scan Documents to Your Phone
Africa is a third world country, and one of its biggest giveaways is its lack of internet connection and data speed. In fact, all across Africa wifi is seldom reliable and it's better to ensure you have a plan in place in case of emergencies. Download or photograph all travel documents and other important information you might need, visa’s, itineraries, accommodation information, flight details and passports onto your phone, so that no matter where you are or what the signal or internet connection is like you have everything you'll need without having to connect to the wifi to access it.
Download Maps
This hack is very important and if you're road tripping or making your own way to Namibia is one that you shouldn't ignore. As mentioned above Africa’s internet and data speed is unreliable and thus can make travelling through with the use of the internet is not an advisable plan. Download maps of the area you wish to be travel on your phone so no matter what the internet connection is like you will arrive safely and on time.
Learn Local Lingo
If you’re eager to visit this majestic destination, then you try and familiarize yourself with its indigenous language, not saying you need to be fluent but a few short phrases should help you get around better as well as learn a thing or two about the languages and lifestyle of the locals. See our travel with phrase guide to Namibia.
Medicine Kit
It's important to have all your required medicine with you, as well as some precautionary medicines too as the hospitals are few and far between with limited medical resources - so it's better to be prepared. Your medical aid kit should hold a few of these important items - however, most safari lodges and camps will have a basic medical kit on standby it's better to be equipped for any situation.1 x Roll clear Elastoplast6 x Plasters6 x Rehydrate packetsAntiseptic ointment (e.g. Bactroban)Antiseptic solutionAntacid for heartburn and stomach acidAntihistaminesImodium for mild diarrhoeaA general antibioticPainkillers and anti-inflammatoriesAntiseptic wipesMosquito repellentAnti Malarial prophylacticsTablets for Malaria treatment
Money
Namibia, along with South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland, is part of the Common Monetary Area. Therefore, the Namibia Dollar is 1:1 with the South African Rand. Money is a commonly daunting thing when travelling, how much to carry? Where the nearest ATMs are and will there be card facilities are all frequently asked questions before embarking on an adventure abroad, asked even more so when travelling somewhere remote. However, the South African Rand is widely accepted within Namibia, as well as the accessibility of credit card facilities and ATMs. However one should all carry cash, just in case.
