Namibia Info

Entry into Namibia:

New Visa Regulations for Namibia: What Travelers Need to Know

👉 [Click here to access our visa application info page]

Namibia’s previous visa waiver granted to citizens of 31 countries ended in spring 2025.

As of April 1, 2025, Namibian authorities require citizens of countries that do not reciprocate Namibia’s visa-free policy to obtain a visa on arrival or an electronic visa (e-visa).

This decision is intended to promote equal visa treatment among nations. Here’s a summary of the key changes travelers should note:

1. Visa on Arrival

Namibia now offers visas on arrival for many countries. Travelers from these countries no longer need to apply for a visa in advance. Instead, they can obtain a visa directly upon entry at airports or border crossings. This applies to tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends or family.

The 31 countries affected by this measure (as they do not grant visa-free access to Namibian citizens) are: Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Belarus, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, and Uzbekistan.

The Minister added that, to streamline the arrival process, the visa form will be merged with the arrival form, and the departure form will be eliminated.

2. E-Visa

Namibia launched its e-visa system in September 2023, and tourists can access it [here].

3. Extended Duration of Stay

4. Fees

• N$ 1,600 (~US$88) for nationals from non-African Union countries

• N$ 1,200 (~US$67) for citizens of African Union member states eligible for visa on arrival

5. Required Documents

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond entry date)

• A return or onward ticket

• Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay

• Proof of accommodation, if applicable

6. Business Visas

Conclusion

Important Notes:

• Journalists must obtain a valid work visa.

• International tour guides must have a Namibian work permit and Public Driving Permit if they are leading a tour independently. Without these, the trip is considered illegal and not covered by insurance.

• All Leaflove Safari guides are fully registered in Namibia, hold all necessary licenses, and are properly insured.

• Entry may be denied if your passport has insufficient blank pages. Always carry certified copies of travel documents — useful in case of loss.

• At immigration, make sure your passport is stamped with the correct number of days for your stay. If not, report the issue immediately.

Travel Documents for Entry

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date and with at least two blank pages is required.

• The German child ID is accepted if it includes a photo and space for entry/exit stamps. However, it is recommended that children have their own passport.

• If you are traveling with minors with non-German passports, check individual entry requirements.

• IMPORTANT: You cannot enter South Africa (even in transit) with children unless you have an affidavit issued by a South African embassy. Please check this beforehand.

• Some airlines have refused child passports, resulting in denied boarding.

• Always carry original birth certificates of children. Due to child trafficking prevention, you may be required to prove legal guardianship.

• Bring copies of important documents and tickets separately in case of loss.

Malaria in Namibia

Malaria is a serious but preventable disease transmitted by the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. After HIV/AIDS, it remains one of the most significant health concerns in parts of southern Africa.

In Namibia, malaria risk is geographically limited. The northern regions are affected, while large parts of the country, including most classic safari routes in the south and along the coast, are low risk or risk free.

With proper planning and simple protective measures, the risk for tourists is generally low.

Risk Areas

• High Risk
  River systems and floodplains in the north, northwest and northeast of Namibia. Precautions are required year round, with increased risk after good rains.
• Moderate Risk
  Kaokoland, Etosha National Park, the Otavi Mountains and Bushmanland, mainly during and shortly after the rainy season, November to April.
• Low Risk
  Central Namibia. Mosquito protection is still recommended, especially after rains.
• No Risk
  The coast, the Namib Desert and southern Namibia.

Important Practical Facts!

• Malaria mosquitoes are active mainly from dusk to dawn.
• Risk increases after good rainfall seasons.
• Transmission is far less common in dry years.
• Most safari lodges in higher risk areas are well managed and provide mosquito nets or air conditioned rooms, which significantly reduce exposure.
• Short term travellers who follow precautions have a relatively low statistical risk.

Symptoms:

Malaria typically begins like a severe flu:
• High fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Sweating
• Fatigue

The incubation period is usually 7 days to 6 weeks.

Any fever during travel or within several weeks after returning home must be taken seriously.

If symptoms occur, consult a doctor immediately and clearly state that you have travelled in a malaria area. Early diagnosis makes treatment highly effective.

Preventive Medication

There is currently no fully reliable malaria vaccine for travellers.

Several prophylactic medications are available. In Namibia they can be obtained without prescription, though medical advice is strongly recommended before travel.

Most doctors recommend:

• Malarone (Malanil in Namibia)
  Well tolerated, few side effects, short intake period after travel.
• Lariam
  Generally not recommended due to possible neurological and psychological side effects.

Prophylaxis should begin before entering a malaria area and continue after leaving, according to medical instructions.

Important to understand:

• Prophylaxis does not prevent infection 100 percent.
• It reduces the severity of the disease and prevents complications.
• No medication replaces mosquito avoidance.

Some experienced travellers choose not to take prophylaxis and instead rely strictly on mosquito protection. This is a personal medical decision and should be discussed with a physician.

Using malaria medication only as a standby emergency treatment without medical guidance is not recommended.

Practical Mosquito Protection!

• Wear light coloured, long sleeved clothing in the evening.
• Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET or similar active ingredients.
• Use products such as Peaceful Sleep or Tabard locally available.
• Sleep under mosquito nets where provided.
• Use room insect spray, especially in bathrooms and dark corners.
• Keep doors and windows closed or screened after sunset.
In malaria areas, wear closed shoes with socks in the evening.
Air conditioning and fans also reduce mosquito activity.

Leaflove Safari Perspective

Over many years of guiding in Namibia, we have rarely experienced malaria cases among our guests. With sensible precautions and awareness, the risk remains manageable.

The key is not fear, but informed and responsible travel!

Accidents in Namibia

• In case of an emergency, immediately contact Emed Rescue 24 (Air ambulance, helicopter, paramedics): +264 81 924

• Contact the MVA (Motor Vehicle Accident Fund) at: +264 85 955

• No services will be rendered without payment proof! Always carry valid credit cards, insurance cards, and/or ADAC membership.

Namibia’s Population

• The official language is English. In towns like Windhoek, Swakopmund, Lüderitz, and Tsumeb, German is also commonly spoken.

• Other languages: Afrikaans (Dutch origin), Oshiwambo, Oshiherero, Damara/Nama, Tswana, Rukwangari, Thimbukushu, etc.

• Population: ~2.8 million (2025), averaging 3.3 people per km².

• Windhoek, the capital, has more than 300,000 inhabitants.

• Namibia is divided into 13 regions with 13 ethnic cultures.

• 65% literacy rate, average life expectancy: 56 years, lowered due to epidemics like HIV/AIDS.

• Population growth rate: 3.3%, but economic growth is under 2%.

• 1,450 schools provide state-supported education. ~80% of children attend school.

Taxes

• 15% VAT (Value Added Tax) is included in most prices.

Climate

• Namibia is a year-round travel destination due to its dry climate. The cold Benguela Current along the Atlantic coast prevents cloud formation, making the Namib Desert one of the driest regions on Earth.

• The Caprivi Strip in the northeast receives the most rainfall, mostly between December and April.

• In summer, temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F) in the shade.

• May to November is the dry season and the best time for wildlife viewing, especially in Etosha National Park, where animals gather at waterholes.

• Winter nights (May–September) can be cold with occasional frost, but daytime temperatures often reach over 20°C (68°F).

Clothing Recommendations

In Namibia, people generally dress casually, comfortably, and practically. Even in high-end lodges there is no expectation of formal wear. At dinner, however, smart casual is the norm – neat but relaxed. Shorts and flip-flops often feel out of place in the evening and are not always well received by other guests. A light pair of long trousers with a shirt or blouse is usually the best choice.

During the day, lightweight cotton clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended. The climate can be very changeable: mornings and evenings are cool, while midday can be hot. This is especially true in the winter months (May to September), when temperature fluctuations are common. The layering principle works best – several layers that can be added or removed as needed. Even in summer, a warm jacket should be part of your luggage.

For walks and wildlife viewing, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts or blouses are ideal. They protect not only from the sun but also from insects. Bright, flashy colours – the so-called “parrot look” – are not advisable: they make you much more visible to wildlife, and fellow travellers often find them distracting. Neutral, earthy tones such as beige, olive, or brown work best.

A sun hat and sunglasses are essential. The best hats are wide-brimmed and made from light fabric, comfortable to wear even in the heat. Leather hats tend to be heavy and hot. Good, sturdy shoes are important even if you are not planning long hikes, as you often step out of the vehicle and walk a few metres in the bush. Sandals or open shoes are fine for relaxed afternoons at the lodge or by the pool.

You will find a good selection of safari clothing in specialist shops, but it is not necessary to buy a whole new wardrobe. Practical, comfortable clothing in muted colours is more than enough.

Electricity

• Namibia uses 220–240 V with three-pin plugs (British/Indian type, not EU standard).

• Bring an appropriate adapter, as most travel plug kits do not include the Namibian type.

• Some remote lodges use generators and do not supply electricity 24/7 – charge devices when possible.

• Many generator systems do not support hairdryers, so leave those at home.

Money Matters

• Namibia’s currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD or N$), which is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR).

• ZAR is also accepted throughout Namibia.

• ATMs are available in most towns. Withdrawing N$ 3000 (~150 EUR) per person at arrival is a good starting point.

• Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted. American Express and Diners Club may not be.

• Banks usually open: Mon–Fri 9:00–15:30, Sat 8:30–11:00.

• For foreign exchange, bring Euros or USD. Exchange services are available at banks and airports.

• Keep some cash for fuel, tips, or remote areas where cards might not work.

Tipping Guidelines

• Restaurants: 5–15% of the bill depending on service. Tips are usually not included.

• Porters: ~N$ 5 per bag.

• Local guides (e.g., day tours): N$ 50–100 per guest per outing.

• National tour guides (multi-day trips): N$ 100–300 per guest per day.

• At lodges: Tip boxes at reception are shared among staff. Suggested: N$ 100–200 per guest per night.

Driving in Namibia

• International driving permits are recommended but EU/Swiss licenses are usually accepted.

• Left-hand traffic in Namibia.

• Namibia has no public transport system. Radiotaxis exist in cities; never hail taxis from the street.

• Long-distance buses exist but do not connect tourist sites.

• Best travel options: guided tours or self-drive with rental car.

Gravel Roads & Safety

• Many serious accidents involve tourists driving rental cars alone – often due to excessive speed on gravel roads.

• Stick to the tracks, avoid crossing over gravel ridges between lanes.

• Never overtake if dust limits visibility.

• Expect potholes, sand drifts, and stones – slow down for oncoming traffic.

Security & Safety

• Don’t stop at isolated roadside areas – robberies have occurred.

• Theft and robberies, especially in Windhoek and Swakopmund, are rising. Avoid walking alone at night.

• Don’t give money to beggars – even children. It encourages dependency and exploitation.

• Beware of scams involving “authentic” donation lists in German.

• Never pick up hitchhikers.

Telephone & Mobile Connectivity

Namibia has a well-developed telephone network with international connections to more than 221 countries. The country’s main mobile provider is MTC, which offers reliable coverage in most towns and populated areas.

Internationally unlocked mobile phones (for example European networks such as D1 or D2) work in Namibia. Mobile reception is generally very good in towns and along main travel routes. However, please note that coverage is limited or unavailable in remote areas, which is part of travelling in wild and natural regions.

Very Important – Please Purchase a Local SIM Card or eSIM

We strongly recommend that you obtain a local MTC SIM card or, preferably, an eSIM upon arrival.

You can purchase this directly in the baggage claim area at the airport. Please have your passport ready, as registration is mandatory.

We recommend purchasing at least N$ 200 airtime and ensuring that you have sufficient data available for the duration of your trip.

If, for any reason, it is not possible to purchase a SIM card in the baggage claim area, you can also do so in the arrivals hall.

Having a local SIM card is important for safety reasons, especially when travelling through remote areas where assistance may need to be coordinated.

International Dialing Code

If someone is calling you from abroad, the country code for Namibia is: +264

Drones in Namibia

• Recreational drone use is restricted to protect wildlife, privacy, and airspace.

• Drones disturb wildlife, especially during nesting/migration.

• Always check regulations with the Namibian Civil Aviation Authority and local parks before use.

Leaflove Safari Packing List

• Durable luggage (bags get dusty)

• Soft bags for small aircraft (if applicable)

• Small towel, toiletries, personal medication

• Good binoculars (Zeiss, Leica, Swarovski, Nikon, etc.)

• Camera, charger, backup batteries/memory cards

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Insect repellent, sunscreen, hat

• Comfortable closed shoes for walks and sandals

• Long sleeves/trousers for sun & bugs

• Layered clothing for hot days and cold nights

• Buff or scarf for open vehicles (dust protection)

• Swimwear

• Nasal spray (dry air)

Camping Tours:

• Warm sleeping bag (Leaflove provides mattress roll)

• Pillow, headlamp

Travel Tips

• DOOM insect spray is effective – use before dinner to kill mosquitoes.

• Peaceful Sleep or Tabard are effective local repellents.

• Carry wet wipes and use them hygienically (don’t litter!).

• Hot water in lodges is often gas-heated – turn the hot tap on fully before mixing.