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Good to Know – Self-Drive Travel Tips for Namibia
Planning a road trip through Namibia? Here are a few important things to know before you hit the road. We want you to feel safe, confident, and well-prepared for your journey. Our team is here to support you before and during your trip!
For everyone who wants to explore new territory
What you should know before your self-drive trip
Driving in Namibia
Left-hand traffic
Namibia has left-hand traffic – the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the vehicle. Take your time to get used to it and drive cautiously, especially at intersections and roundabouts.
Gravel roads
Most roads in Namibia are gravel roads. They are wide and well-maintained, but can become slippery, especially after rainfall or if driven too fast. Always keep a safe speed and avoid sudden steering movements or hard braking.
Speed limits
The general speed limits are: 60 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 120 km/h on tar roads – unless otherwise indicated. Reduce speed according to conditions and always drive defensively.
Breakdowns and assistance
In case of a breakdown, remain calm and contact us immediately. Our vehicles are equipped with spare tyres, jack, tools, and an emergency number. Mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas – inform us in advance of your route.
⛽ Fueling & Range
Gas stations
Gas stations can be found in cities and larger towns. In rural areas, there may be long stretches without refueling – refueling in time is important!
Payment
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards (Namibian dollars or South African rand). But be careful—credit cards don't work everywhere.
🛏️ Camping with a roof tent
Assembly and dismantling
Our roof tents are quick to set up and take down. A briefing upon pick-up will help you handle everything safely and easily.
Campsite
Namibia offers many well-equipped campsites with sanitary facilities, fire pits, and beautiful natural scenery. Wild camping is generally not permitted.
⚠️ Safety and wildlife
Watch out for animals
Wildlife and livestock may suddenly cross the road. Be especially alert during dusk and at night. For your own safety, we recommend avoiding night driving entirely.
Valuables
Don't leave any valuables visible in your vehicle. Use locked luggage compartments or take important items with you.
Frequently asked questions:
You still have Questions?
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Helpful information for your journey...
Travel times:
Always remember that in Namibia traffic is on the left side of the road and the metrical system is applicable. As Namibia is a spacious country, one may well have to drive distances of up to 500km. Maximum speed on tarred roads is 120 km/h. We advise to keep to a maximum speed of 80km/h when driving on sand or gravel roads, in order to react timeously to possible game crossings. Take this into consideration when you plan your tour.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The entire Namibian road network (as at September 2017) comprises 48.875,27 kilometres. About 6.500 kilometres are tarred roads, while 42.375 kilometres are gravel and farm roads.
Tarred roads:
As a rule, Namibia's tarred roads are in a good condition. Do however note that the larger roads in Namibia usually have a gravel edge rather than a broad border. This makes the roads appear quite narrow, especially with oncoming trucks.
Always be on the lookout for wild animals, even on tarred roads. Especially at sunset they might, out of nowhere, jump in front of your car. This mainly concerns kudu and warthogs, which regularly appear in groups.
Gravel roads:
Gravel roads may at first sight appear to be in a better condition than many tarred roads, but don't be fooled. Sharp bends and sudden stretches of sand, combined with loose gravel, can cause severe accidents! A fool-proof way to unintentionally disrupt or even end your journey prematurely.
Best advice: Adhere to the speed limit and reduce speed when you see a bend. Should you travel during the rainy season, be especially vigilant. Slippery mud is Africa's slick ice.
Puddles or river crossings:
Muddy puddles and rivers can conceal huge holes.
Drive through these with utmost care.
Our rule of thumb:
Ensure that the footboard of the vehicle is always above water. You can easily establish the depth and speed of the water current by wading through the water.
Off the road
If you damage something, you pay for the damage. If you get stuck, you will have to pull yourself out.
It may initially seem like fun to drive cross country and not on the roads. Visiting Sossusvlei is an excellent example. The tarred road ends about 5km before the Sossusvlei in a huge parking area. Those with a 4x4 off-road vehicle (and experience in driving in sand) are well off, others will have to cover the remaining kilometres to the vlei on foot or make use of one of the nowadays relatively costly shuttle services. However, be advised that an inexperienced off-road driver, who takes on the challenge to drive in the sand, will have to consider that improper towing may result in damages to the vehicle.
Distances Table:
Instruction video tire check
To download, please click on the three dots in the video.
Instruction video camping equipment
To download, please click on the three dots in the video.
Instruction video construction of the roof tent
To download, please click on the three dots in the video.
Instruction video tire change
To download, please click on the three dots in the video.
Instruction video driver's cabin
To download, please click on the three dots in the video.
Basic information on travels through Namibia:
In Europe, nobody would leave a camera worth 10.000€ on the backseat of a car - then also don't do this in Namibia. Someone might get silly ideas.
Have regard to wild animals. Especially elephants and rhinos are known to be unpredictable. Remain in your car in national parks. You do not want to become known as "this tourist” in social media.
Respect traditional communities. We are well aware that these groups look fabulous in their traditional clothes. Be courteous and ask their permission before you take photographs. In addition, it is well-mannered to give something in return.
If you are uncertain, google or call someone. Namibia has one of the best internet networks in Africa. Only the most remote areas have no reception. MTC is the biggest internet provider.
Food and drinks:
Stocks can be acquired at any bigger supermarket, such as Spar, Checkers, Pick n Pay and Woermann Brock. They usually stock a variety of meats and fresh vegetables.
Even though Namibia’s tap water is amongst the best in the world, rather drink bottled water if you feel uncertain as to its quality.
Entertainment and culture:
Each Namibian town contributes in its own way to the country's flair with street markets or live concerts in the evenings, etc.
Up-to-date information in this regard can be found under www.whatsonnamibia.com.
And again: Should something not be clear, best advice is to google.
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