Question 1

What countries are included in Southern Africa?

Accepted Answer

Our Southern Africa trips cover Botswana, Eswatini (Swaziland), Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Many itineraries combine two or more countries — for example pairing South Africa's Kruger with Zambia's Victoria Falls, or Namibia's deserts with Botswana's Okavango Delta.

Question 2

What languages are spoken in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

English is the official language. Afrikaans and German are widely spoken, along with local languages such as Oshiwambo, Herero, and Nama/Damara.

Question 3

Do I need vaccinations to travel to Namibia?

Accepted Answer

A Yellow Fever certificate is required if arriving from an affected country. Routine vaccinations such as hepatitis, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is advised in the northern regions, including Etosha and the Caprivi Strip.

Question 4

What is the best time to travel to Namibia

Accepted Answer

The dry season from May to October is best for wildlife viewing. The rainy season from November to April is better for birdwatching, but some lodges close and certain roads may be difficult to use.

Question 5

Do I need a visa to enter Namibia?

Accepted Answer

As a citizen of the EU, USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and the UK, you will need a passport valid for 6 months from your entry date with at least one blank page to enter Namibia. You DO NOT need to arrange a visa before arrival. However, If you plan on travelling for more than 3 months, you will need to apply for a visa.

Starting 1 April 2025, nationals from 32 countries, including the UK, EU, USA, and Canada, will require a visa on arrival to enter Namibia. Find out more here. If you are a citizen of a country not included above, you may need to acquire a visa before arrival in Namibia via your local Namibian Embassy. Citizens from some countries can obtain a single-entry tourist visa upon arrival in Namibia. Find out more here.

Question 6

Is Namibia safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Namibia is a peaceful and welcoming country and a dream self-drive destination. Like any other place you visit, it's important to stay vigilant and take precautions:

Keep a close eye on your belongings, whether travelling alone or in a group.
Avoid displaying valuable items like cell phones and cameras.
Stay away from deserted and quiet areas at night.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Be prepared for remote areas with minimal assistance available if your car breaks down or you get a flat tire.
Respect and observe wildlife from a distance, never leaving your car except at designated areas.

Question 7

How long should a Southern Africa trip be?

Accepted Answer

Single-country trips typically range from 7 to 14 days. If you're combining countries — say Namibia's highlights with a Botswana fly-in safari — allow 14 to 21 days. Short 3- to 5-day add-ons to Victoria Falls or the Cape Winelands work well alongside a longer safari.

Question 8

Can I self-drive in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When renting or driving a car in Namibia, an international driver's licence is not required if your licence is in English. However, if your licence is not in English and you are the designated driver, you will need an international driver's licence. Roads in Namibia include tar roads in towns and cities, as well as gravel and sand roads in the backcountry. These roads are generally in good condition, but you should avoid speeding and watch out for potholes, mud, and sand. To navigate sandy roads, it's helpful to release air from your tires to avoid getting stuck. While you don't need advanced off-roading skills, it's recommended to familiarise yourself with 4x4 basics. Ask for a demonstration from the car rental company before driving off, and ensure you can drive a manual transmission if you rent one.

Question 9

Can I combine multiple countries in one Southern Africa trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — multi-country trips are one of Southern Africa's strengths. Popular combinations include South Africa + Zambia (Kruger and Victoria Falls), Botswana + Namibia (Okavango and the Namib Desert), and Namibia + Zambia + Botswana for a grand three-country circuit. Internal flights and short transfers make cross-border travel seamless.

Question 10

What plugs and electricity are used in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

Namibia uses Type D and Type M plugs with a 220V supply. An adaptor is recommended for international travellers.

Question 11

Are credit cards widely accepted in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

Credit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas and tourist spots. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for remote areas where card facilities may be limited.

Question 12

What adventure activities are available in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

Namibia offers thrilling activities like hot air ballooning over the desert, quad biking in the dunes, and wildlife safaris. Adventure enthusiasts can also try sandboarding or explore the Skeleton Coast.

Question 13

What is the best time to visit Southern Africa?

Accepted Answer

The dry winter months from May to October offer the best game viewing across the region — wildlife congregates around water sources and vegetation thins out. The Cape and Garden Route are best from November to March (Southern Hemisphere summer). Whale watching along the South African coast peaks from June to November.

Question 14

What currency is used in Namibia?

Accepted Answer

The Namibian Dollar (N$) and South African Rand (ZAR) are both widely used and accepted. The exchange rate between the two is always fixed at 1:1. When travelling to Namibia, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller expenses, as well as major credit cards for larger purchases. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, and it’s also possible to exchange foreign currencies at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels.

Question 15

What wildlife is Southern Africa known for?

Accepted Answer

Southern Africa is home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), plus wild dogs, cheetahs, hippos, and hundreds of bird species. Kruger and its private reserves in South Africa, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Etosha in Namibia are among the continent's premier wildlife destinations.

Fort Sesfontein Lodge

Lodge built from a historical fort in the remote Damaraland wilderness

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