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 Purchases |
| Precious stones and gems such as diamonds, aquamarines, amethyst, topaz, as well as gold jewellery are mainly found in Windhoek. Namibia is also renowned for its astrakhan pelts and good quality ostrich, buffalo and crocodile leather. Baskets
and wooden artefacts can be bargained for in Windhoek’s streets or at the Okahandja market which specialises in wooden products from northern Namibia. It is advisable to buy on first sight as it is not certain that you will see the same thing twice. |
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| Money |
| The Namibian Dollar is equivalent to the South African Rand but may not be exported. Do not forget to convert all Namibian Dollars into Rands before leaving the country, either at the bank (free of charge) or at any shop. Credit cards are accepted
almost everywhere but it is advisable to carry some cash for markets and drinks. It is possible to withdraw cash from any A.T.M. |
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| Foreign Exchange |
| The exchange rate varies little from one place to another. Exchanges can be done at any hotel reception. |
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| Hours |
| Post Office : |
08:00 to 16:30 (weekdays) |
08:00 to 11:00 (Saturdays) |
| Shops : |
08:00/09:00 to 17:30/18:00 (weekdays) |
08:00/08:30 to 12:30/13:00 (Saturdays) |
| Banks : |
09:00 to 15:30 (weekdays) |
09:00 to 11:00 (Saturdays) |
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| Post Offices |
| Apart from the post offices, it is also possible to hand in your mail at the hotel reception. Postage for international letters is : N$1,70 ; postcards : N$1,20. |
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| Tips (at your discretion) |
| Restaurants : |
Most restaurants do not include a service charge, so 10 to 12% should be added to the total bill (for meals and drinks). |
| Porterage : |
Between N$5 and N$10 per suitcase. |
| Guide and/or driver : |
The average is between N$20 and N$30 per person per day, shared between the guide and driver. |
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| Electricity |
| The voltage is 220/250 V, but a special adapter for video camera chargers and hairdryers is needed, which can be obtained from the hotel reception. Universal
adapters do not work in Namibia. |
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| Programme |
| Distances : |
It is important to keep in mind that sometimes the distances to cover each day are very long. Some of these distances are done on gravel roads, but the fascinating landscape offers an interesting diversion. |
| Wake-ups : |
These are often early due to the long distances and the fact that the days are shorter (18h in winter / 19h in summer). Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for game viewing. |
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| Restaurants |
| Water : |
Tap water is drinkable, unless you are advised otherwise. |
| Food : |
The meat is usually well done; be more specific if you like it rare. Namibia is renowned for its venison (oryx, kudu, or ostrich). |
| Fruit and vegetables : |
In Namibia, all the fruit and vegetables are safe to eat. |
| Coffee : |
It is light and served with milk, ask for black coffee if you don’t want milk. |
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| On The Road |
| In Namibia driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Gravel roads are generally well-maintained, but it is nevertheless recommended not to exceed 80km/h to avoid skidding or losing control of the vehicle. It is dangerous to
drive at night because of roaming animals. It is advisable to refill with petrol before leaving a town because the distances between towns are long. State rest camps have petrol stations. Petrol must be paid for with cash, as credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations. |
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| Health |
| Malaria : Only the northern parts of Namibia are malaria areas. In addition to malaria prophylactics, it is advisable to wear long sleeves and to use a spray or lotion that repels mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk.
Air-conditioners and fans can also help to keep mosquitoes away. |
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| Safety |
| As in any big city in the world, it is not recommended to walk in the streets alone at night. During guided visits keep money, passports and air tickets with you. |
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| Water |
| Water in Namibia is a very rare commodity. You are invited to take part in the Waterwise Campaign by rather taking a shower than a bath, and making sure the taps are firmly closed. |
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| Telephone |
| The international code for Namibia is +264. To call overseas from the hotel room, dial 0 to get a line, then 00, then the international country code e.g. 44 (U.K.) and the number. |
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| Emergency Numbers |
Police : 10111
Problems with emergency numbers : 1099 |
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