Orientation briefing in Namibia

Various ethnic groups occupied southwestern Africa prior to Germany establishing a colony over most of the territory in 1884. South Africa occupied the colony, then known as German South West Africa, in 1915 during World War I and administered it as a mandate until after World War II, when it annexed the territory. In 1966, the Marxist South-West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) guerrilla group launched a war of independence for the area that became Namibia, but it was not until 1988 that South Africa agreed to end its administration in accordance with a UN peace plan for the entire region. Namibia gained independence in 1990, and SWAPO has governed it since, although the party has dropped much of its Marxist ideology. President Hage GEINGOB was elected in 2014 in a landslide victory, replacing Hifikepunye POHAMBA, who stepped down after serving two terms. SWAPO retained its parliamentary super majority in the 2014 elections. In 2019 elections, GEINGOB was reelected but by a substantially reduced majority, and SWAPO narrowly lost its super majority in parliament.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Namibia

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Namibia, attacks cannot be ruled out.  

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Muggers often target tourists in Windhoek. Attacks may be violent and can take place at any time of day and in busy city-centre locations. To reduce your personal risk:

• be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark
• keep your valuables and cash out of sight or use a hotel safe
• do not change large sums of money in busy public areas

Vehicle crime

Gangs sometimes try to enter vehicles at busy intersections in Windhoek. Theft from vehicles, particularly at service stations, is common. To reduce the risks:

• do not leave your vehicle unattended at fuel stops
• keep car doors locked and windows shut, especially in heavy traffic
• keep valuables off the seats and out of sight

To reduce the risk of robberies from taxis:

• do not hail taxis from the street, particularly in Windhoek
• ask your hotel, guest house or tour operator to recommend a reputable taxi company
• do not enter townships at night, unless you are with someone with local knowledge

Credit card skimming

There have been cases of credit card skimming at some hotels and lodges. Always keep your card in sight when paying and check your statement.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry UK photo ID. You may need to show ID at police checkpoints in Windhoek and other major towns and cities. Keep copies of the photo page of your passport and important documents separately in a safe place.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in Namibia. Certain same-sex sexual acts are illegal, but generally not prosecuted. There are no laws against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Conservative attitudes towards LGBT+ individuals remain, especially in rural regions. Showing affection in public may result in unwanted attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Penalties for using or smuggling illegal drugs can be severe. Penalties include large fines and imprisonment.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. You will be prosecuted and could get a fine or prison sentence for buying or trafficking these goods, including ivory and rhino horn.

Using cameras in secure areas

Police have detained people for taking pictures of the President’s official residence. Check before taking photographs of government buildings or in secure areas.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for any adventure activities you plan to do, like quad biking, dune boarding or hot air ballooning.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Namibia, see information on driving abroad. 

You’ll need to have your valid UK photocard driving licence with you in the car.

Take out comprehensive insurance as accidents are common on gravel and dirt roads. If you’re planning to hire a car, check what insurance cover is provided. Most policies will not cover accidents that do not involve other vehicles or animals.

Driving standards

During the rainy season from January to April, many gravel roads deteriorate. You should:

• not go faster than 80 km/h
• carry 2 spare tyres for punctures
• carry plenty of water
• check the road conditions before setting off
• avoid driving at night outside towns, as wildlife and livestock are serious hazards

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 211111 (in Windhoek) or 10111 (everywhere else) and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Namibia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Namibia.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Namibia. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Namibia’s hot and dry climate can cause skin problems and dehydration. Make sure you carry a good supply of drinkable water.

Namibia has one of the highest prevalence rates of HIV in the world. In 2021 the UNAIDS Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic estimated that around 210,000 adults aged 15 or over were living with HIV. This was around 11.8% of the adult population, compared to around 0.2% of adults in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Namibia

There are good medical facilities in Windhoek. Private hospitals may insist on payment before starting treatment even if you have comprehensive travel insurance. They may ask you to pay and reclaim from your insurer later. Some travel insurance policies are not recognised by some Namibian hospitals. Check if your product is accepted in Namibia before you travel and get alternative coverage, if needed.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Namibia where some staff speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.