Money
The local currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD or N$), which is pegged 1:1 to the South African rand. Rand is accepted everywhere. As of early 2026, roughly N$18-19 buys one US dollar, and N$19-20 buys one euro.
ATMs are reliable in Windhoek, Swakopmund, and larger towns but become sparse in rural areas. Carry enough cash before heading into the bush — particularly for fuel, campsites, and small lodges. Most lodges and restaurants in tourist areas accept Visa and Mastercard.
Tipping is expected and important: N$20-50 per night for lodge staff, 10% at restaurants, and a tip for your safari guide at the end of a stay is standard.
Electricity
Namibia uses the South African Type M plug — three large round pins. Bring an adapter if you're coming from Europe or North America. Voltage is 220-240V, 50Hz.
Communications
Mobile coverage (MTC and TN Mobile are the main operators) is decent in towns and along main roads, but expect nothing in the wilderness. Buy a local SIM at the airport or in Windhoek for data. Wi-Fi is available at most lodges and guesthouses.
Health
Malaria is a risk in the north and northeast (Etosha, Kavango, Zambezi/Caprivi Strip) from November through April. Take prophylaxis if you're heading to these areas. The rest of the country — Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Fish River Canyon — is generally malaria-free.
Tap water is safe to drink in Windhoek and most towns. In rural areas stick to bottled water. The sun is intense at altitude — use high-factor sunscreen even on cool days.
Yellow fever vaccination is required if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Always carry proof of vaccination.
Namibia has good private hospitals in Windhoek (Medi-City Hospital and Rhino Park Private Hospital are the main ones) but limited medical facilities in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is essential.
Safety
Namibia is one of Africa's safest countries for travellers. The main risks are opportunistic petty theft in cities and, far more seriously, road accidents — gravel roads, free-roaming wildlife, and long distances are a dangerous combination. Drive slowly on gravel and never drive at night outside towns.
Language
English is the official language and widely spoken in tourism and business. Afrikaans is the most common everyday language and useful to know a few words of. German is still spoken in Swakopmund and Lüderitz.