OVERVIEW
Namibia is a Country situated in Southern Africa bordering the Atlantic Ocean, South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Angola. Namibia has a population of 2.6 million people over an area of 825,615 km2 (318,772 sq mi). Namibia is the world's thirty-fourth largest Country. Namibia is considered as one of the least densely populated countries in the world due to the large arid Namib Desert.
The name of the country is derived from the Namib Desert, considered to be the oldest desert in the world. The name Namib itself is of Nama origin and means "vast place". Due to the position between the Namib and the Kalahari deserts, Namibia has the least rainfall of any sub-Saharan African Country. The Coastal desert is one of the oldest deserts in the world with its sand dunes created by the strong onshore winds, the highest in the world.
TRAVEL
The international airports are Hosea Kutako International Airport located just outside Windhoek and Walvis Bay International Airport. The Countries main roads between major Towns are sealed tarred roads which are generally in a very good condition. All secondary roads are unpaved gravel roads which are also in a good condition however 4x4 capable vehicles are best suited. Speed limits on tarred roads are 120km/h and 100km/h on unpaved gravel roads.
MEDICAL
The standard of private health care in large towns are relatively modern and comparable to international standards. Specialist care may be limited depending on the specialty and may require evacuation to Windhoek or South Africa. All health care facilities will require upfront payment either by cash or credit card.
CRIME
Most criminal incidents occur in the wealthier urban centres of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund & Windhoek but is not limited to. Most urban crime is opportunistic including the stealing of unattended backpacks, luggage, camera equipment, laptops & mobile phones and wallets. The risk of falling victim increases after dark and particularly foreign visitors travelling by foot. Most large towns have Neighbourhood Watch groups whom assist the Namibian Police Force in combating and reducing crime.
WEATHER
Summer is between November and April, also the rainy season. Winter is between May and October. Temperatures in Summer average 30° Celsius and can peak to 40° Celsius. Temperatures during Winter average 22° Celsius.
CURRENCY
The Namibian Dollar (N$) is the official currency and is fixed to the South African Rand. Both currencies are legal tender in the Republic of Namibia. Traveler's checks can be exchanged during normal banking times at any Commercial Bank or at bureau de change office. Usual banking hours are Mon-Fri 09:00 - 15:30 and Sat 09:00 - 12:00.
DISTANCE
The table shows approximate distances between destinations in kilometers. Values may differ depending on route selected.
