Travelling in Namibia - Guide & Practical information
Namibia is a country in southwest Africa. With a surface area of 825,615 km², it is one of the continent's largest countries. Namibia has a population of around 2.8 million, making it one of the least populated countries of the continent. Namibia is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, such as the Namib Desert, its wildlife-rich national parks and its diverse culture. English is the official language, but there are many indigenous languages spoken by the various ethnic communities.
Namibia is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Angola to the north, Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south. The country is mainly desert, with the Namib Desert stretching along much of the west coast. The landscape is varied, from the spectacular red sand dunes of the desert to the rugged mountains of the central plateau. The flora and fauna are rich and diverse, with unique species adapted to the arid conditions.
Namibia has a semi-arid desert climate, with significant temperature variations between day and night. Summers (October to April) are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and even 40°C (104°F) in some regions. Winters (May to September) are cooler, with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F), but dropping below 0°C (32°F) at night. Precipitation is rare, and mainly concentrated between November and February.
Namibia's official currency is the Namibian dollar (NAD). It is linked to the South African rand (ZAR) and is widely accepted throughout the country. Credit cards are generally accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger towns, but it is advisable to carry cash for more rural areas.
Telecommunications networks in Namibia are relatively well-developed, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, in some remote areas, coverage may be limited. It is advisable to obtain a local SIM card if you plan to use your cell phone during your stay. Internet access is available in most hotels and Internet cafés.
During your Safari-Cruise, you'll visit the small Impalila Island. This island in Namibia's Caprivi Strip is a unique place in the world where four countries meet: Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. This is a walking tour accompanied by guides who were born and raised on this island. You'll visit a village and meet its inhabitants, who will explain their way of life, their sources of income and the organization of the island's various villages.