ABOUT NAMIBIA

Fun Facts

  • Namibia is the second least populated country in the world. Only Mongolia is less populous.
  • Namibia is home to the world’s largest population of free-roaming cheetahs (2500-3000)
  • Namibia is home to the world’s largest population of free-roaming black rhinos.
  • The Namib Desert is one of the world’s oldest deserts.
  • Namibia is one of only two countries in the world that has desert elephants.
  • Sossusvlei Sand Dunes are some of the highest in the world.

Money Matters

  • Windhoek has several Bureau De Change offices. At the airport, in the Grove Mall, in Maerua Mall as well as Wernhill Mall.
  • The Namibian Dollar is linked to the South African Rand (NAD 1 = ZAR 1)
  • You can use both currencies in Namibia, but only ZAR in South Africa.
  • Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted throughout Namibia, also at petrol stations.
  • It is advisable to only keep a small amount of cash on you.
  • Car guards are common in Namibia. They guard your car and belongings for a small tip.

Climate

  • Average summer temperatures: 20°C to 40°C
  • Average winter temperatures: 0°C to 25°C
  • Namibia’s climate can generally be divided into three main seasons. The first part of summer is from October to December. This season is hot and dry. From January to March, comes the second part of the summer, which is hot and wet.
  • Summer is long, running from October to March.
  • This is followed by a short Autumn from April to May.
  • Winter is relatively short, from June to August.

For Your Suitcase

  • A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Daytime temperatures can exceed 40°C, so light-weight and cool clothes are essential.
  • Consider long sleeves for protection against the sun and mosquitos. (The northern parts of Namibia are a malaria area.)
  • Nights can be chilly, even during summer.
  • Winter day-time temperatures are very pleasant, but at night the temperature can drop to below 0°C. It is best to layer up.
  • If you sleep in tents in the winter, bring along some body warmers, socks and a beanie