Introducing Namibia
The Republic of Namibia is located in southwestern Africa, bordering Angola and Zambia to the north, Botswana to the east, and South Africa to the south.
In Namibia, you can feed lions at Hanas Farm, experience hunting for the first time on the farm, sleep amidst the world's oldest desert in Namib National Park, swim with dolphins in Whale Bay, and see thousands of sea lions. Namibia is a wild land, and every experience here is pristine and will definitely not disappoint you.
Climate and best time to travel
Namibia has an altitude of 1000-2000 meters, with dry and rainless climate, belonging to subtropical and semi-desert climate. May to October is the dry season in Namibia, which is also the peak tourist season.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Windhoek
Namibia's largest city, located on the central plateau at an altitude of 1,645 meters, is known as Africa's cleanest garden capital, overflowing with rich European charm amidst its vibrant flowers.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund is a seaside resort known as the "Summer Capital". The city is surrounded by pristine beaches and numerous resorts of all levels.
Etosha National Park
Etosha is the largest of the country's ten national parks, home to over 110 species of mammals, some of which are endangered and rare, and over 300 bird species, a third of which are migratory.
Recommended number of days for a visit: 7-10 days
Most Popular FAQs for Namibia
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Namibia, in southwest Africa, has a rich history including indigenous tribes, German colonial heritage, and South African administration. It gained independence in 1990. The country is globally significant for its vast deserts, diverse wildlife, conservation areas, and unique ecosystems like the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Namibia is bordered by Angola, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, and the Atlantic Ocean. Main entry points are Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek) and Walvis Bay Airport. Domestic travel includes rental cars, guided tours, buses, or small domestic flights to remote lodges and parks.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- National parks: generally 6:00–18:00.
- Best time for safaris: dry season (May–October) for wildlife visibility.
- Wet season (November–April) for birdwatching and green landscapes; some roads may be less accessible.
- Desert exploration: mornings and late afternoons to avoid extreme heat.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Etosha National Park: ~$15–$25 per adult per day.
- Namib-Naukluft Park: ~$10–$15 per adult per day.
- Tickets purchased at park entrances or via tourism operators online/offline.
- Special activities (hot air balloon, scenic flights) are booked through tour operators.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for lodges, hot air balloon rides, and guided tours, ideally 1–3 months ahead, especially during peak dry season (June–September).
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
10–14 days are ideal to experience Etosha, Namib Desert, Damaraland, Swakopmund, and Fish River Canyon. Shorter trips (5–7 days) can focus on either desert or wildlife safaris.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Etosha National Park – wildlife and salt pans
- Sossusvlei & Deadvlei – sand dunes and desert landscapes
- Skeleton Coast – shipwrecks and scenic coastline
- Damaraland – desert-adapted wildlife and rock art
- Swakopmund – coastal town with adventure activities
- Fish River Canyon – dramatic geological formation
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided safaris, cultural tours, and adventure excursions are available, mainly in English; some operators provide German, French, or Afrikaans. Audio guides are limited, with most experiences relying on guides for interpretation.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Sossusvlei and Deadvlei sunrise and sunset dunes
- Etosha waterholes for wildlife
- Scenic flight over Namib Desert
- Fish River Canyon viewpoints
- Skeleton Coast beaches and shipwrecks
- Damaraland rock formations and wildlife
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Windhoek → Sossusvlei → Swakopmund → Damaraland → Etosha National Park → Waterberg Plateau → Fish River Canyon.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night game drives are available in private reserves within Etosha. Some lodges offer evening star gazing, cultural evening performances, and night desert walks.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Dry season (May–October) is busiest. Least crowded months are the wet season (November–April), but expect lush landscapes and dispersed wildlife.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Lodges provide meals, accommodation, and rest areas.
- National parks have basic facilities at gates and campsites.
- Urban centers offer restaurants, shops, and visitor centers.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Most lodges and urban areas are accessible. Safari vehicles may have limited accessibility for people with mobility challenges. Desert excursions require moderate physical activity.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash (Namibian Dollar or South African Rand) is recommended for small vendors and remote areas. Credit cards are widely accepted in lodges, urban areas, and major tourist spots.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Swakopmund offers coastal restaurants, cafes, and bars.
- Lodges provide meals in parks and desert areas.
- Windhoek has a variety of dining options including local and international cuisine.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Available in major towns and lodges; limited in remote safari camps.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury lodges in Etosha, Namib Desert, and Damaraland
- Mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Swakopmund and Windhoek
- Budget campsites and hostels in key locations
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Namib-Naukluft National Park – day hikes and dune climbing
- Skeleton Coast – coastal exploration and shipwrecks
- Damaraland – rock art and wildlife spotting
- Windhoek – cultural and historical sites
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handcrafted carvings and jewelry
- Local textiles and fabrics
- Traditional masks and pottery
- Wildlife-themed art and souvenirs
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Domestic flights between Windhoek, Walvis Bay, and other airports
- Car hire for flexibility and road trips
- Long-distance buses connecting towns and border crossings