South Africa to Namibia

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR ROAD TRIPPING IN NAMIBIA:

1. plan your route

As steam rose from the tarred roads and mirages appeared in the distance, we drove towards the Namibian border. This is the route we decided on doing: N7 > Noordoewer > Grunau > Keetmanshoop > Mariental > Rehoboth > Windhoek > Okahandja > Swakopmund > Hentiesbaai > Spitzkoppe > Walvis Bay > Soussusvlei > Fish River Canyon > Noordoewer.

It took us three weeks while taking leisurely stops for a few days at a time.

We suggest allocating time to appreciate this diverse country. Some of the most beautiful places we’ve discovered in Namibia are on off the tar roads, so allow yourself time to roam free. Don’t worry. If you get lost, let the anthills guide you as their nose cones point South

2. rent a 4x4

With wide-open roads amongst towering dunes, taking a road trip is the perfect way to explore. Consider using/renting an off-road vehicle which is designed to travel gravel roads while providing extra space for essentials.

3. fuel up!

Namibia is sparsely populated, with only certain regions occupied so often we travelled 200km with only springbok and gemsbok as companions. As Namibia is a land of vast distances and open spaces, we advise fueling in each town

4. bring cash

As cash is king in Namibia, ATMs are easy to find in towns. When travelling inland, it is essential to carry cash so that you can spend money with locals who live alongside the roads selling their wares. The exchange rate between the South African Rand (ZAR) and Namibian Dollar (NAD) is 1:1, so businesses accept both currencies. Spend your dollars before you leave as you cannot use them in RSA

5. buy namibian sim card

Once in Namibia, be sure to buy a local Sim card. The rates are affordable, and it will save you money by not roaming on your South African Sim. You can buy Sim cards at petrol stations and shops.

Pack Everything You’ll Need.

Some of our no brainer essentials would be a sarong for the warm weather, an outside canvas waterbag to cool down your water

6. keep hydrated take extra water

When you are packing, there are some unique items that we highly recommend you to take. Some of our no brainer ideas are to take a sarong for the warm weather, an outside canvas water bag to keep your water cold and to ensure that you don’t get dehyrated, a well as padkos (fruit, snacks, sandwiches) while driving the hot, dusty roads!

A kudu whistle is advisable to use while driving at night. It can be attached to the front grill of your vehicle to warn wandering animals. Many animals are roaming free throughout Namibia, and driving at night which can be attached. All South African cars must display a ‘ZA’ Namibia sticker on their vehicle upon entering Namibia.