Namibia Travel

Travel to Namibia to discover a desert wonderland, its wild heart beating in time with nature. One of Africa’s most enigmatic countries, both desolate and beautiful, its plains beckon those keen to capture its soul. Whether you’re visiting for a bucket list experience, a romantic escape or just wishing to conquer its magic, there’s something for everyone on a Namibia holiday.

The towns of Swakopmund and Luderitz as well as the capital, Windhoek, all have their own unique charm. But it’s the great outdoors that create a stir in an adventurer's heart – from the Skeleton Coast and Kaokoland to Sossusvlei, with its legendary dunes. Not forgetting Etosha, Africa’s third-largest game reserve. Namibia is home to the oldest, driest desert in the world as well as ancient rock art and a wide selection of wildlife, some of which have made their home in the arid desert. It is all of this and more that makes Namibia such an extraordinary place to tour and one of the most exciting travel destinations in Africa.

Why Take a Tour of Namibia?

Breathtaking Landscapes: Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Namib Desert, the towering Sossusvlei dunes, and the rugged beauty of Skeleton Coast.
Amazing Wildlife: Go on a safari to spot Africa’s iconic animals, including elephants, lions, and rhinos, in national parks like Etosha and Damaraland.
Unique Cultural Experiences: Discover the rich traditions and heritage of Namibia’s indigenous people, from the Himba to the San.
Adventure & Exploration: Experience thrilling activities like quad biking, sandboarding, and 4x4 off-roading through the desert.
Unforgettable Desert Views: Witness the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei and the surreal beauty of the Namib Desert’s shifting landscapes.
Rich History: Learn about Namibia’s fascinating colonial past, ancient rock art, and historical landmarks.
Remote, Untouched Beauty: Namibia offers a sense of isolation and peace, making it perfect for those looking for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path destination.
Luxury & Comfort: Whether you prefer staying in luxury lodges or unique desert camps, Namibia offers diverse accommodations that allow you to relax and enjoy your adventure in style

There is a wonderful road trip you can take from Cape Town to Namibia, it is a 1481km drive. It will take you just over 15 hours to get there, but you will definitely want to stop for the quaint towns and the 'must-see's' along the way, so give yourself a bit more time. If you're too excited for your holiday to Namibia to start then it is only a 2 hour flight to Windhoek.

Namibia is the ideal holiday destination to get away from it all on an adventurous honeymoon, family holiday or rugged tours with friends. Let Thompsons Holidays be your guide. Chat to us about Namibia holiday packages and our all-inclusive Namibia holiday packages. We've got something to suit every budget!

What to do in Namibia

A mysterious land of otherworldly beauty, which stretches along Africa’s western coastline from one desert to the next, Namibia is a wonderland of natural attractions. It’s one of Africa’s most enigmatic countries, both desolate and beautiful, a destination that beckons the explorer, the adventurer and the photographer, all keen to capture its soul. Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, there’s something for you in Namibia, a place where very few men dare to set down roots, and wild animals reign supreme.

Start your adventure in the capital, Windhoek, the ideal base from which to explore the rest of the country. Enjoy some relaxation in Swakopmund, the country’s premier holiday resort, home to a wealth of well-preserved German colonial buildings. Then discover Walvis Bay, the centre of the country’s fishing industry. Unforgettable experiences include exploring the Namib Desert in the west and the orange dunes of the Kalahari in the east. And then there’s the incomparable Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s great game parks, where you can enjoy a safari to view a wide variety of wildlife.

Things to do on your Namibia holiday:

Wildlife Safaris: Namibia is home to some of Africa’s most famous national parks, including Etosha National Park. Enjoy thrilling game drives and the chance to spot the “Big Five,” as well as unique species like desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos.
Sossusvlei Dunes: The iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert are some of the tallest in the world, offering incredible photo opportunities and a chance to explore the dramatic desert landscapes.
Skeleton Coast: Known for its shipwrecks and dramatic coastline, Skeleton Coast offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for photography and wildlife viewing.
Swakopmund: This charming coastal town has a mix of colonial architecture, adventure activities like sandboarding and quad biking, and access to the ocean for a variety of water sports.
Cultural Tours: Explore Namibia’s diverse cultures, from the Himba people in the north to the San Bushmen in the Kalahari. Learn about their traditions and lifestyles through local guides.
Damaraland: Visit the ancient rock engravings of Twyfelfontein and discover the scenic beauty of Damaraland. You might even spot desert-adapted wildlife in this remote area.

Whether you want to go dune bashing in Sossusvlei or search for shipwrecks on the Skeleton Coast; if you're going to experience an adventure holiday with friends or as a couple, or game viewing with the whole family, you can do all of those things in Namibia. Let Thompsons Holidays put together an all-inclusive Namibia holiday package for you.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit Namibia?

The best time to visit Namibia for wildlife safaris is during the dry season, from May to October, when temperatures average 20°C. This is also the best time to visit Namibia for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

However, if you're interested in seeing the dunes at their most spectacular, the rainy season (November to April) offers a different perspective, with lush vegetation and cooler temperatures.

October to February is summer season and it is extremely hot.

Getting there & Getting Around

Flight duration from Johannesburg to Windhoek, Namibia is 2 hours. You will either fly on from there to your destination or be driven.
You can then rent a 4x4 vehicle for self-drive tours or opt for guided tours to explore the country’s top destinations. Many areas, especially national parks, are remote, so a guided safari or flight is often recommended.

Do South Africans Need a Visa for Namibia?

South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Namibia.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your trip.

What time is it in Namibia?

Time zone – same as in South Africa.
Namibia practises daylight saving during winter which makes them GMT+1 (1 hour behind South Africa).

Money matters

The official currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD).
South African Rands are widely accepted and you can exchange US Dollars, UK Pounds and Euro.
Credit cards are accepted at most hotels/lodges.
Tipping has become standard practice in Namibia.

Language & phrases

English is the official language.
Afrikaans, German, Oshiwambo, and other local languages are also spoken.

Culture & religion

Namibia is a multi-ethnic society with a mix of cultures and religions. Christianity is the dominant religion, but indigenous beliefs are also practiced. The Namibian people are warm and welcoming, with a rich cultural heritage.

Health information

Vaccinations are recommended for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria (in certain areas). It’s also advisable to bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes

What must I pack for a holiday in Namibia?

Lightweight clothing for summer. Choose long, loose items that will protect your skin from the elements.
In winter, the nights can get very cold. Be sure to pack some warm items.
For safari - take khaki or light coloured clothing and a warm jacket for those early morning game drives.
Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, flip flops.
Sunscreen, lip balm, hat, light scarf and sunglasses.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Camera.
Travel adaptor.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Support the local economy.
Respect each other's cultures and customs.
Be mindful of your impact on the environment. Follow established pathways and roads, do not collect flora.

Safety tips

Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially if self-driving.
Familiarise yourself with the rules of the game reserve.

What do I do in an emergency?

Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.

Can I use my South African credit card in Namibia?

Yes, most major credit cards are widely accepted in Namibia, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. It's a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans.

Can I use Rands in Namibia?

Yes, South African Rands are widely accepted, particularly in larger towns and tourist areas.

What can I not take into Namibia?

Certain items such as firearms, and narcotics are prohibited. Always check the latest customs regulations before travelling.

How much cash should I take to Namibia?

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some Namibian Dollars or South African Rands in cash, especially when visiting remote areas. A few hundred NAD should be enough for small purchases.