Located in Southwest Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital city of Windhoek and discover the beautiful coastal town of Swakopmund which boasts remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will need to venture outside the cities to explore the stunning natural landscapes that Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon, the vast Etosha National Park which is rich in wildlife, such as lions, desert-adapted elephants and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra; the stunning Kalahari Desert; and of course the Namib Desert which stretches for over 2000km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a wild and untamed wilderness.
Currency and Banking
Currency: Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (N$) this is linked to a one-to-one exchange with the South African Rand. The Rand is legal tender in Namibia, but the N$ cannot be used in South Africa. If you want to buy currency before arriving in Namibia, it is easiest to buy Rand as the Namibian Dollar is rarely available in banks outside of Namibia.
Banking: Banks are located in most towns and are generally open from 09:00 to 15:30 on weekdays and from 08:30 to 11:00 on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and public holidays. Most offer currency exchange services – with cash, bank and credit cards as well as travellers cheques. You can also get cash from many of the ATMs. Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always inform your bank that you are travelling outside the country as they may block your purchases if they are not informed.
Transport and Getting Around
It is easy to travel in Namibia by car even with a normal vehicle but best with a 4 x 4 or 4 x 2 vehicle but with large wheels and   for most journeys. Outside the main cities and towns petrol stations are infrequent and many only accept cash so planning ahead is essential. There are major airlines that fly to Windhoek and Swakopmund. Other destinations can be reached by car or charter flight. Namibians drive on the left and all signs are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking on a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120 km/h on sealed roads outside towns and 100 km/h on dirt roads. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 60 km/h.
Food and Drink
Traditional Namibian cuisine is rarely served and so food in restaurants tends to be European in style and is generally of a very high standard.
Namibia is very meat-oriented, and many menu options include steaks from various animals. However, there is usually a vegetarian and seafood section offered by most camps and restaurants. In supermarkets you will find pre-packaged fresh fruit and vegetables (although the further away the areas you visit, the smaller the choice), and plenty of canned goods, pasta, rice, bread, etc. Most of this is imported from South Africa. Water in Namibia's major cities is generally safe to drink, although it can taste a little metallic if it has been piped for miles. Natural sources usually need to be purified, although water from underground springs and dry river beds rarely causes problems. However, filtered and bottled water is readily available in most towns and all camps, lodges and hotels.
Climate
Partially covered by the Namib Desert, one of the driest deserts in the world, Namibia's climate is generally very dry and pleasant — it is beautiful to visit all year round. Namibia receives only a fraction of the rainfall experienced by countries further east. Between December and March some days will be wet and rain can follow, often in localised afternoon thunderstorms. These are more common in the centre and east of the country, and more unusual in the desert.
April and especially May are often fine months in Namibia. Increasingly drier, with a real freshness in the air, and lots of greenery in the landscape; at this time the air is clear and largely free of dust.
From June to August Namibia cools down and dries out more; nights can become chilly, dropping to eight freezing in some desert areas. As the landscape dries out so the game in the north of the country gravitates more to waterholes, and is more easily visible to visitors. In September and October it warms up again; game viewing in most areas is at its best, although there is often a lot of dust around and the vegetation has lost its vibrancy.
November is a very changeable month. Sometimes the hot and dry will continue, other times the sky fills with clouds and threatens rain — but if you are lucky enough to witness the first rains of the season, you will never forget the drama.
Dress Code
Namibians have a somewhat relaxed attitude to dress codes. A jacket and tie are highly unusual. In fact, long trousers and a button-up shirt are often quite appropriate for a formal occasion or for business attire. A pair of sensible shoes, jeans and a t-shirt are recommended.
During the day it is generally hot, so pack light, loose-fitting clothing in natural fabrics, such as linen or cotton, which will keep you cool and are easy to wash and dry.
Avoid blue clothing – tsetse flies are attracted to the color blue, and their bite can give you African sleeping sickness.
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect you from mosquitoes at night.
Electricity and Power Outlets
The current is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. You will need to bring a three-point adapter plug for your electrical appliances. These are also available at major airports.