Namibia
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Click on the Trip Types in the left menu to see our small group and suggested self drive or tailor made itineraries.
Namibia provides great contrasts in its scenery and thus in the experiences on offer. Highlights of a trip could include taking a hot-air balloon ride over the sand dunes at sunrise as the orange and red hues on the sand dunes change, game-viewing in Etosha National Park - home to lion, elephant, giraffe and rhino (amongst others), staying on a reserve where big cats are being rehabilitated back into the wild, or hurtling down the sand dunes on a sand-board. Culturally, the country offers insights into the lives of the San bush people, with ancient rock art carved into the landscape in Damaraland, and for guests seeking a completely remote experience, a visit to the Himba people assures a meeting of two very different cultures.
Examples of accommodation include luxury permanent tents, allowing guests a very comfortable but 'in-the-bush' experience, a luxury ranch which shares its home with a big cats foundation (with objectives to rehabilitate orphaned or injured cats back into the wild), or luxury lodges beautifully situated in the midst of the desert where telescopes and expert astrologers can provide narratives on the galaxies. Evening activities at the bush lodges tend to revolve around the boma (open fire): listening to the sounds of the African bush whilst sitting under the stars with a drink definitely has that 'getting away from it all' feeling.
Whilst distances between destinations are great, roads are generally good (driving is on the left) and a self drive holiday would appeal to those looking for an independently-led trip. Small group and tailor-made trips are lead by qualified and knowledgable guides who are thoroughly knowledgable about their country, the local wildlife and local cultures. Their experienced eyes make for a highly valued wildlife exprience as they have the ability to spot wildlife submerged into the bush and their knowledge makes the trips informative and fun.
We offer Small Group trips, Self Drive trips, Tailor Made trips and Extensions in Namibia: click on the relevant section to the left.
Getting there
Air Namibia operate direct flights from London Gatwick to Windhoek, Namibia twice weekly. An alternative worth checking out is to fly via Johannesburg or Cape Town. Connections from Windhoek to Victoria Falls, Cape Town and Mozambique (via Johannesburg) are possible for guests wanting to extend their trip.
When to go
Namibia's dry season runs from May to September, with temperatures from 20-25C during the day and cooler nights. This coincides with high season and is a good time for wildlife viewing. Rainy seasons in Namibia run from October to April. Temperatures during these months are between 30-40C, with the most rain falling between January to March. The best time to visit is during the winter months from March to as days are warm and dry, and wildlife easier to spot as they tend to congregate at waterholes
General Information
Visas
Visas are not required for UK or Irish nationals. All visitors require a passport valid for at least six months after the period of their intended stay, and documents for return or onward travel. Passports should have at least two unused pages for endorsements by the Namibian Immigration Service.
Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.
Health
The
World Health Organisation recommends that all travellers are innoculated against diptheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella and polio as well as for hepatitus B.
Hepatitus A and typhoid are also recommended by the
Centres for Disease Control & Prevention (www.cdc.gov) for travel in South Africa. Depending on the area visited, anti-malarial drugs may also be recommended. All travellers should seek advice from their local GP or travel clinic for uptodate advice on vaccinations and different malarial options.
Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all bookings. Guests on group departures must take their policy documents with them on the trip as the guide will ask to see this at the start. The documentation must state in writing that you are the named policyholder and that the cover is valid for the period of travel. The policy document must also indicate that medical expenses and emergency repatriation cover is included and a 24 hour contact telephone number for the insurance company must be shown on the documentation in case of emergency. Guests unable to provide all this information at the start of the trip will be asked to purchase a policy prior to joining the trip.
Money
Currency is the Namibian dollar which is linked to the South African rand. The rand is also legal tender in Namibia at a rate of 1:1.
Click here for current exchange rates.
What to bring
Binoculars, torch, walking shoes, swimming gear, plenty of high factor suncream, sunhat, insect repellent, camera, a day pack. Warm clothing is recommended for evenings, and a waterproof jacket. Lightweight clothing is recommended for the day. Avoid brightly coloured clothing for game viewing. In summer months, a fleece, gloves and hat are advised for early morning game drives.