Mountainous sand dunes, colonial architecture and vibrant indigenous wildlife… these are just some of the snapshots that make Namibia one of Africa’s tourism headliners. Whether you’re after a cultural experience or want to immerse yourself in some of Africa’s most spectacular natural attractions, Namibia has something to offer. This guide features everything you need to know if the Land of the Brave is a must-see in your travel journal.
And when you’re ready to book, head over to Cheapflights.co.za and start searching for cheap flights to Namibia, along with hotels and car hire.
What to bear in mind before you go
Every visitor to Namibia must be in possession of a passport that is valid until six months after the initial date of travel and South African travellers will require a Visa. It is recommended that you get your Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Polio and Tetanus vaccinations too.
When to visit
Namibia is an all-season destination, so when you choose to visit will depend on what kind of traveller you are. If you’re a sun chaser, then October to April is when you’ll catch the hottest weather, although you can expect short afternoon showers. This is the off-peak season due to thriving vegetation and the subsequent low visibility of wildlife, so it’s also the best time to book cheap flights to Namibia. The dry season, from May to October is peak season and the ideal time for spotting wildlife -perfect if you are looking to go on an African safari.
Where to fly to
Flights to Namibia will more than likely go to Hosea Kutako International Airport, that is the country’s flagship airport and is situated 45 kilometres east of its capital city, Windhoek. A number of airlines are serviced by this airport, including Air Namibia, British Airways, SAA and Airlink. The second largest airport is Walvis Bay, situated in the dunes of the Namib Desert, roughly 15 kilometres away from the harbour town of the same name. If the historic town of Swakopmund or the sparkling coastline is where you’re headed, then this is where you’ll want to land. Major airlines that fly to this airport include Air Namibia and South African Express.
How to get around
The best way to get around in Namibia is to hire a car. And hey, it just so happens that you can search for the best deals here. Hotel shuttles and metered cabs for private tours are also a good way to reach the top attractions as reliable public transport is a rarity – there’s simply not enough “public” to warrant a formal system. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and have a bit of time to play with, then you may be able to get around using a mini-bus, which doesn’t run according to a timetable. This is the cheapest way to travel but it will cost you lots of waiting time at off-peak periods. And be warned, travelling from destination to destination in Namibia often involves long stretches, and the Namibian sun can be relentless, so always have bottled water to hand.
Learn the lingo
Although English is Namibia’s official language, it is useful to bear in mind that in southern regions, Afrikaans is more prevalent and most Namibian citizens speak a dialect that blends Afrikaans terminology with the variety of local tongues. Oshiwambo is the indigenous language of the Ovambo people in northern Namibia and is spoken by 49% of the households throughout the country. The Nama/Damara language is spoken by 11% of households. Learning a few phrases like “matisa?” (how are you?), “gangans” (thank you) and “toxopa” (please), may help you to impress the locals. In other regions, you may hear some German, Portuguese and French.
What to eat
Eleven different ethnic groups mean that Namibian food is as diverse as it gets, but there seem to be some crowd favourites. The carb of choice is “pap” – a traditional maize porridge served with meat, stew or “mutete,” a spinach dish that is a staple of the Kavango diet. Although it’s definitely not for everyone, tripe is also a popular choice. The edible offal from the stomach of oxen, sheep and goats is usually prepared as a curry in a three-legged “potjie” pot over an open fire. Then of course, there’s biltong – marinated, air-dried meat made from game like kudu, springbok and gemsbok. Pair your dish with a Windhoek beer and you’ll fit right in with the locals.
What to buy
If you’re looking to spend some cash and take home a few mementoes that say “I’ve been to Namibia,” then you’ll have no problem finding a shopping mall or craft market. Windhoek’s Maerua Mall is home to a number of local and international fashion brands as well as bistros and sundowner spots. If you’re looking for something handcrafted and authentic, head to the Namibia Craft Centre or the Ongwediva Open Market where you’ll find traditional wood carvings, Herero dolls, Karosse rugs and Himba bracelets. Open-air markets are where you’ll grab some bargains and trinkets.
What not to miss
Kolsmanskop
A few kilometres inland from the town of Lüderitz is a ghost town that is slowly but surely sinking into the shifting sands of the Namib Desert. Kolmanskop was once a rich mining village but was abandoned when the diamond-field was exhausted. Now you can explore sites like the hospital, ballroom and bowling alley, that are often knee-deep in sand.
Nyae Nyae Conservancy
Learn about the deeply spiritual culture of the Ju’hoansi people (Kung, Bushmen or San) who still inhabit this region. These traditional hunter-gatherers invite visitors into their space to get a taste of what village life is like amongst prehistoric dunes, ancient baobabs and terminalis forests.
Twyfelfontein
This massive open-air art gallery features rock paintings and engravings crafted by the indigenous San people, some of which are around 6,000 years old. The site was awarded World Heritage status back in 2008. The best time to visit is in the morning or at sunset, to avoid the midday heat.
The Skeleton Coast
Extending along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, the Skeleton Coast gets its name from the famous shipwrecks that can be found along its shore. These ships met their end along this perilous coastline and surviving sailors were faced with the harsh desert landscape. Now, Cape Fur Seals and seabird colonies live in the stranded wrecks.
Outapi War Museum
Set on the grounds of a former South African Defence Force base, this museum was once a station for conscripts during the Bush War. Situated underground, the museum exhibits military memorabilia, artefacts and weaponry that were used during the conflict.
Fish River Canyon Hiking
Thousands of tourists visit the Fish River Canyon every year, to experience the sheer magnificence of this natural structure. Pack your gear and set off on a two, three or five-day hike beginning at the Fish River Lodge. You’ll see some indigenous flora like the Quiver Tree and the poisonous Melkbos, and fauna like wild horses and kudu.
Etosha National Park
This national park is home to indigenous wildlife like zebra, wildebeest and antelope, all of which can be seen gathered around the park’s waterholes. The Etosha Pan is also a breeding ground for flamingos. If you are Namibia bound with only wildlife in mind, then Etosha is one of the best locations for wildlife resorts and safari holidays.
Sossusvlei
As one of Namibia’s most popular natural attractions, Sossusvlei is home to a series of spectacular, red sand dunes surrounding a large, white salt and clay pan. Literally translated as “dead-end marsh,” it is the place where the dunes come together to curb the flow of the Tsauchab River.
GocheGanas
This 6000ha nature reserve is designed to allow visitors to unwind and is situated just outside of Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek. Onsite treatment rooms include a cave sauna, a heated indoor pool and crystal baths. Perfect for travellers who are after a well-deserved break to recharge mind, body and spirit. This is by far one of the most relaxing things to do in Namibia.
Ready to go? Then head on over to Cheapflights.co.za and start searching for flights to Namibia…
