Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the best time to visit Namibia?
Namibia is a fabulous all year –round destination. A host of tourism related activities allow for a fun filled and adventure packed experience through-out the year.

When are your peak seasons?
Namibia is an all year round destination. However, it is advisable to do early planning for the period July to October.

Can Namibia guarantee winter sun?
With 360 days of sunshine per year, our winter mornings might start out a bit fresh. We guarantee you to have sleeves up by 9 am.

What are the most popular choices of activities, and why?
As the majority of the visitors to Namibia make use of self drive facilities, clients generally spend the first night in or close to Windhoek. Windhoek hosts a wide variety of activities and service providers, allowing you with a wide range of choices. Namibia remains the country of choice for those who want to diverse African experience in the absence of human intervention. A rare combination of wildlife in abundance and a diversity of landscapes,makes Namibia one of the highest repeated destinations on the globe.

And the animals?
Namibia hosts the widest variety of animals in their natural habitat imaginable. Beyond the Big 5, Namibia is home to over 250 indigenous terrestrial and marine species. A well regulated conservation program, allows Namibia to host a number of hot species that are classified as threatened elsewhere. Namibia National Parks and a number of Private Game Reserves closely work together to sustain the wildlife population in their natural environment.

How reliable is the infrastructure in your country?
Our excellent infrastructure will hardly allow the client to notice any fluctuation in tourist volumes. Our accommodation infrastructure is growing rapidly not only cope to with the growing demand for accommodation but also to sustain first world quality levels. Accommodation establishments and add-on activities (e.g. game drives, adventure packages, etc.) in Namibia are world class and are known to satisfy the clients’ every need. The tourism industry sustains a number of hospitality training facilities, highly successful in upholding the quality levels to present our visitors with nothing short of the best experience imaginable.
Roads are in an excellent condition if compared to any other standard. However, distances are significant and it is advisable to plan up front for fuel and to prevent fatigue as this is one of the major causes of road accidents. Avoid driving during night time as some of the roads are not fenced and may cause stray animals to cross the road. We have very strict drinking and driving laws prohibiting driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Our speed limits are 60kms/h in urban areas, 80kms/h on gravel roads and up to 120kms/h on sealed roads as indicated by traffic signs. Operating the vehicle in excess of these speed limits will void any insurance cover issued by CABS CAR HIRE NAMIBIA.

How easy is it to meet and mix with Namibians from all communities?
The spontaneous, welcoming and friendly nature of Namibians makes it very easy to get acquainted with the wide variety of cultures. Political stability and a well maintained democracy creates a peaceful, relaxed and affectionate environment.

How easy is it to communicate to and from Namibia?
A first world standard communications infrastructure allows for unlimited communication with the rest of the world. Telecommunication and GSM based facilities are available even in the most remote areas of the country. Other options include satellite phones or GPS based systems to navigate through the country on a rental basis.

Are there modern banks? What about money?
The currency unit is Namibian Dollar, denoted by the symbol N$ with 100 cents making up N$1 (one Namibian Dollar). Master and Visa Credit Cards are acceptable almost everywhere and can be used in the bank or ATM. Foreign Exchange facilities are located in all major towns and are online with the rest of the world. Credit cards are not accepted for refuelling purposes, only cash will be accepeted at filling stations.

How far will my money go and how do I tip?
With the current exchange rate in your favour, you will find Namibia a very affordable destination. The majority of restaurants do not add a service fee to bills – however, it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip. Parking and fuel station attendants should be given whatever the small change you are willing to give (a suggested N$5). This is always appreciated, even though it may seem a small amount.

Do you offer facilities for Disabled Travelers?
An increasing number of accommodation establishments have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Legislation is in place to improve facilities for disabled visitors. Almost every National Park has at least one accessible chalet and wheelchair-friendly ablution facility.

How do I dress?
Namibian nights tend to be chilly and will require a light jacket during the winter months (June to September). Midmorning will allow you to roll up sleeves and enjoy the ever present sunshine.

What can I expect on health and safety?
Many foreigners are unaware of Namibia’s well developed infrastructure with regard to health and safety. High standards of water purification and medical facilities are equal to the best in the world. A wide network of hospitals and clinics, complimented by internationally sought after South African trained doctors and medical personnel should give you an idea of the standard of the medical care available. However, clients must have adequate health insurance to cover the fees private hospitals charge. Malaria is bound to the Caprivi and the Okavango Delta situated in the neighboring Botswana. Although the occurrence of Malaria is rare, it would be best to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas. Visitors who are entering Namibia from a Yellow Fever zone must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Only infants under the age of one year are exempt. No other immunization is required.

Can I claim any taxes paid during my visit?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds N$ 250-00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced.