One of Africa's larger countries, Namibia is also one of the world's most sparsely populated nations. The open spaces and abundant wildlife draw tourists: the thick bush of the Caprivi Strip, the animal-laden splendor of the Etosha salt pans, the ever-shifting sand dunes of the Namib Desert, and the lunar magnificence of Fish River Canyon. The western coast is among the most desolate coastline in the world.
Namibia shares borders with South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Namibia's weather is foggy and mild along the coast, warmer toward the central region to humid and hot in the northeast. Rains fall during summer (November-April) and evenings are normally cool due to the altitude in the inner regions. The official language in Namibia is English.
The population of 1.8 million includes various tribes and the descendants of former German and South African colonialists. Windhoek, the capital, is an odd blend of Germanic influence and new and old Africa. Namibia gained independence in 1990 and is still developing its own culture. The people are generally friendly and helpful.
Namibia is best reached by air into Windhoek, though an efficient rail network links Namibia to South Africa and connects various cities and towns within Namibia. The road network is well-developed and well- maintained, though secondary roads are mostly gravel. Domestic and international bus service is adequate. Taxis operate in Windhoek, Keetmanshoop and Walvis Bay.
The communications infrastructure is well developed; local and international phone, fax, Internet and postal services are available, though all can be expensive. Other goods and services are inexpensive, though not bargains (especially in heavily-touristed areas such as game parks and lodges). Credit cards are widely accepted within the major urban areas and traveler's checks and foreign currencies can easily be exchanged.
Public health facilities, though sometimes below Western standards, are available in most cities and towns; private medical services exist in Windhoek, Keetmanshoop and Walvis Bay. The tourism industry is one of the more important industries in Namibia and it is well structured and developed to cater to the traveler.
There is a high rate of violent and petty crime in Namibia and foreigners are not spared. Beware of scams designed to set up pickpocketing and theft. Exercise extreme caution in the Caprivi Strip because the civil war in Angola occasionally spills into Namibia.
For a free map of Namibia and more detailed information, be sure to click on the Destination Brief above.
Please note: the situation in Namibia can be volatile and dynamic. You are encouraged to purchase an Intelligence Brief ($7.50) or Destination Tracker ($25) for complete, up-to-the-minute information on the Country, Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Transportation, Communications/Technology, Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language in Namibia.