Is Namibia Safe to Visit?

Vast orange sand dunes meet the misty Atlantic coast. Wildlife roams freely across sprawling national parks.

Ancient rock art decorates canyon walls. Namibia captures the imagination with its startling beauty and remarkable contrasts.

For Indian travelers considering this southern African nation, safety questions often come first. Is Namibia safe to visit? The short answer is yes – Namibia stands as one of Africa’s safest travel destinations.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything Indian travelers need to know about safety in Namibia.

Understanding the Current Safety Situation

Namibia consistently ranks among Africa’s safest countries for tourists.

In 2025, international safety indexes place Namibia fourth on the continent for visitor security, following only Mauritius, Ghana, and Zambia.

According to Numbeo’s Crime Index:

Crime Index Score	Safety Scale Rating
63.57 (high chances of crime)	36.43 (low level of safety)

The USA has a Crime Index score of 49.2, which is lower than Namibia’s, indicating that travelers may face fewer safety concerns in the United States compared to Namibia.

Related Read: Namibia Visa for Indians

Essential Safety Guidelines for Travelers

To ensure a smooth, trouble-free experience in Namibia, Indian travelers should follow these essential safety guidelines:

Respect Local Customs and Norms

• Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural and traditional communities.

• Dress modestly when visiting villages or meeting with tribal communities

• Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home if you see shoes at the entrance

• Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite

• Learn basic greetings in Afrikaans or local languages as a sign of respect

Navigate Traffic and Transport Safely

Safety tips for travelers in Namibia regarding transportation are particularly important.

Road travel is the primary way to get around this vast country, and Indian travelers should be aware of several key points:

• An IDP is recommended and often required by rental companies, especially if your home license is not in English.

• Always opt for reputable taxi services or guided tour vehicles. Avoid overcrowded or unofficial minibuses, especially in remote areas.

• Before signing any rental agreement, inspect the vehicle for scratches, dents, or mechanical issues. Take photos and report any concerns to the rental company.

• In Namibia, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Seatbelt use is mandatory, and speeding is strictly policed, especially near national parks and towns.

• Namibia is known for gravel roads and roaming wildlife. Drive slowly and avoid night driving, especially outside urban areas.

• Choose Reputable Rental Providers:
  Some trusted car rental companies in Namibia include:

  • Avis Namibia – Known for good coverage across the country and quality 4WD vehicles.

  • Caprivi Car Hire– Offers rugged off-road vehicles for safaris and remote travel.

  • Savanna Car Hire– Specializes in camping-equipped 4x4s for adventure travelers.

• Namibia has a strict legal alcohol limit of 0.05% BAC – random breath tests are common, and offenders face fines, license suspension, or jail.

Indian travelers may prefer to use private taxis or rental cars for greater safety and comfort.

Carry Adequate Protection from the Climate

Namibia’s climate demands specific precautions:

• Stay Hydrated: The desert climate causes rapid dehydration. Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily.

• Sun Protection: UV exposure is extreme. Carry strong sunscreen (SPF 50+), wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.

• Temperature Variations: Desert areas can be blazing hot during the day (35-40°C) but drop below 5°C at night. Pack layers.

• Dust Protection: Bring face masks or scarves to protect against dust storms, especially when visiting desert regions.

• First Aid Kit: Include basic medications, bandages, anti-diarrheal medicine, and insect repellent.

Related Read: South Africa Visa for Indians

Women’s Safety in Namibia

Women’s safety in Namibia is generally good compared to many other countries. Female travelers, including those from India, typically report positive experiences when visiting Namibia.

For Indian women traveling to Namibia, here are specific recommendations:

• Solo female travelers should exercise standard precautions, especially at night

• Use registered taxis rather than walking alone after dark

• Book accommodations with good security and reviews from other female travelers

• Dress modestly in rural areas and when interacting with traditional communities

• Be firm but polite when declining unwanted attention

• Join group tours for activities in remote areas for added security

Women’s safety in Namibia is supported by several resources designed specifically for female travelers:

Resource	Contact Information	Services
Women’s Action for Development	+264 61 227 630	Information and support for women’s issues
Sister Namibia	+264 61 230618	Women’s rights organization offering assistance
Tourist Protection Unit	+264 61 209 3111	Special police unit focused on visitor safety

Common Scams in Namibia

Indian travelers should be aware of several common scams in Namibia:

1. Taxi Overcharging: Some drivers charge tourists inflated rates. Agree on fares before entering or insist on using the meter.

2. Wildlife Tour Scams: Beware of extremely cheap safari packages that promise impossible wildlife sightings. Book through reputable operators or your accommodation.

3. Gem and Souvenir Scams: Vendors sometimes sell fake gemstones or crafts claimed to be authentic. Purchase from established shops with fixed prices.

4. Unofficial Guides: People may offer guide services at popular attractions, but they provide little value. Use official guides with proper identification.

5. Exchange Rate Tricks: Some money changers offer poor rates or use sleight of hand to short-change tourists. Use banks or official exchange offices.

How to stay safe in Namibia as a tourist regarding scams:

• Research typical prices beforehand to recognize inflated tourist rates

• Get recommendations for tour operators from your hotel or reputable travel websites

• Always get receipts for purchases and services

• Be wary of anyone offering deals that seem too good to be true

• Use credit cards where possible for larger purchases to have a record of the transaction.

Health & Hygiene Tips in Namibia

• Drink bottled or filtered water: Tap water is safe in most urban areas, but stick to bottled water in remote regions.

• Use sun protection: Namibia has intense sun exposure; wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), hats, and sunglasses.

• Carry a basic medical kit: Include pain relievers, diarrhea medicine, insect repellent, and bandages.

• Avoid undercooked food or street snacks: Stick to reputable eateries or hotel restaurants.

• Vaccinations: Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Yellow fever is only needed if arriving from an affected area.

• Use insect repellent, especially in the northern regions where malaria risk exists. Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication if visiting these areas.

• Practice safe swimming: Avoid stagnant freshwater bodies to prevent schistosomiasis; ocean and hotel pools are safer options.

Areas to Avoid in Namibia

While Namibia is generally safe, certain areas require extra caution. Areas to avoid in Namibia or approach with increased awareness include:

Urban Areas

• Windhoek: The capital is mostly safe, but avoid walking in less populated areas and industrial zones after dark.

• Katutura Township: This Windhoek neighborhood has higher crime rates. Visit only with local guides during daylight hours.

• Informal Settlements: Areas on the outskirts of Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay can have higher petty crime rates.

Border Regions

Areas to avoid in Namibia include some border zones:

• Angola Border: The northern border areas, particularly near Ruacana and the Kunene Region, can experience occasional cross-border crime.

• Caprivi Strip: While much improved, this narrow panhandle extending east has historically experienced some security issues.

Natural Hazards

Some areas to avoid in Namibia relate to natural dangers:

• Remote Desert Areas: Never venture into desert regions without proper guides, equipment, and water supplies.

• Flash Flood Zones: During the rainy season (January-April), avoid dry riverbeds that can flood suddenly.

• Wildlife Zones at Night: Never drive through wildlife areas after dark due to animals on the roads.

Local Helpline Numbers to Keep in Mind

Indian travelers should save these important emergency numbers in Namibia:

Emergency Service	Phone Number	Notes for Indian Travelers
Police Emergency	10111	Main emergency police number
Ambulance (Windhoek)	211111	Medical emergencies in the capital
Tourist Protection Unit	+264 61 209 3111	Specialized police for tourists
Fire Brigade (Windhoek)	211111	Fire emergencies in the capital
General Emergency (Mobile)	112	Works from all mobile networks
Roadside Assistance	+264 61 222 458	AA Namibia for vehicle breakdowns
Indian High Commission	+264 61 226 037	For Indian citizen assistance

Related Read: Zimbabwe Visa for Indians

How to Stay Safe in Namibia as a Tourist?

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in cities like Windhoek; opt for taxis or hotel-arranged transport.

• Use hotel safes and don’t leave valuables in parked cars (especially visible from outside).

• Be cautious at ATMs, and use machines in busy, secure areas like malls or banks. Avoid being helped by strangers.

• Drive safely, as Namibia has long, remote roads. Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk, and avoid night driving.

• Always carry extra fuel, water, and a spare tire if exploring off the beaten path.

• Respect local customs and dress modestly in rural areas, and always ask before taking photographs of people.

• Use reliable tour operators for safaris and desert trips, go with licensed, experienced companies.

• Watch out for petty theft, especially in crowded markets, bus terminals, and tourist hubs.

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FAQs

1. Is Namibia safe to visit right now?

Is Namibia safe to visit? Yes, Namibia remains one of Africa’s safest countries for tourists. It ranks fourth in safety among African nations, with low crime rates and political stability. Indian travelers should take standard precautions as they would in any foreign country.

2. What is the crime rate in Namibia?

The crime rate in Namibia is relatively low compared to many African countries. Violent crime against tourists is rare, though petty theft can occur in urban areas. The crime rate in Namibia is significantly lower than in neighboring South Africa. In cities, exercise standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas after dark.

3. What are the health and hygiene standards in Namibia?

Health and hygiene in Namibia vary between urban and rural areas. Cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund offer good medical facilities and clean accommodations. Health and hygiene in Namibia’s remote regions can be basic, with limited medical services.

4. Is Namibia safe for solo travelers?

The country welcomes independent travelers with a well-developed tourism infrastructure. Solo travel safety in Namibia requires standard precautions: staying aware of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas after dark, and keeping someone informed of your itinerary.

5. How safe is Namibia for women tourists?

Women’s safety in Namibia is relatively good. Female travelers report positive experiences and face few gender-specific challenges. Women’s safety in Namibia requires standard precautions like avoiding walking alone at night in cities and dressing modestly in rural areas. Group tours add security for women exploring remote regions.

6. What are the emergency numbers in Namibia?

Important emergency numbers in Namibia include police (10111), ambulance in Windhoek (211111), and general mobile emergency (112). The Tourist Protection Unit can be reached at +264 61 209 3111. Indian travelers should also save the Indian High Commission number: +264 61 226 037.

7. How can I stay safe while traveling in Namibia?

How to stay safe in Namibia as a tourist includes: locking valuables in hotel safes, avoiding night driving, carrying limited cash, staying hydrated, telling someone your travel plans, and being cautious with wildlife. Following local advice and maintaining awareness are key to security.

8. Which areas should I avoid in Namibia?

Is Namibia safe to visit? Generally, Namibia is considered a safe destination, but there are areas to avoid. These include isolated parts of Windhoek after dark, informal settlements on the city outskirts, and remote border regions near Angola. The Katutura township in Windhoek should only be visited with local guides.