About Namibia
Namibia is a vast, sparsely populated country situated along the South Atlantic coast of Africa. Previously known as South West Africa, Namibia is bordered by South Africa in the south, Angola and Zambia in the north and Botswana and Zimbabwe in the east. It is also home to the oldest desert in the world - the Namib - which stretches along the whole west coast of the country. The Kalahari Desert runs along its southeastern border with Botswana. The country is demarcated into 13 regions, namely the Caprivi, Kavango, Kunene, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana and Oshikoto regions in the north, the Omaheke. Otjozondjupa, Erongo and Khomas Regions in the central areas and the Hardap and Karas regions in the south.
Getting to Namibia
There are no direct flights from the United States to Namibia, however, one can fly directly to Windhoek in Namibia from Johannesburg or Cape Town's International Airports.
Safety and Security within Namibia
It is advised that visitors be aware of pickpockets in town centers, avoid using taxis if possible and never take a taxi alone. Do not enter townships at night unless accompanied by someone with local knowledge and always take sensible precautions. Safeguard valuables and cash; deposit them in hotel safes, where practical and keep separate copies of important documents, including passports.
Namibian Climate
Namibia's climate is typical of semi-desert terrain, hot days and cool nights. With as many as 300 days of sunshine on average per year, Namibia is truly a sunny place. Only during the summer months from November to February does rain occur. See more on regional weather patterns by looking at our weather-map guide.
Namibian Visa Requirements
Visitors from the USA do not require visas for stays of up to 90 days.
Namibian People
Namibians are of diverse ethnic origins. The principal groups are the Ovambo, Kavango, Herero/Himba, Damara, mixed race, European (Afrikaner, German, and Portuguese), Nama, Caprivian (Lozi), Bushman, and Tswana.
Namibian Currency
The currencies are the Namibian dollar (NAD) and the South African rand (ZAR). 1 US Dollar = approximately 9.50 Namibia Dollar. For current rates click http://www.x-rates.com/
Health
Before visiting Namibia, you may need to get vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases you might be at risk for at your destination: (Note: Your doctor or health-care provider will determine what you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities).
