Top Namibia hotels
Sponsored Links
It's not really an effective way to travel long distances, but if you'd like to share a little time with the locals in Damaraland, you can take a ride in one of their (so-called) "Kalahari Ferraris". Generally, these desert roadsters are made from discarded car axels, and are powered by one or two donkeys.It's not luxury travel, but when in Namibia, it's a way to get somewhere when the battery in your car dies, or you run out of gas.
Namibia is a big country with lots of space in between destinations. Public transport doesn't cover all areas so if you can get yourself a hire car and enjoy the flexibility.A little 2 wheel drive with reduced excess and windscreen and tyre insurance (important) will set you back on average $80 Australian p/d. There are quite a few hire car companies not just the big two so shop around - the little companies do offer good service and cars on the whole.The trip from the airport to the city is about 40 odd kms. so organise a free pick up with your hire car people in advance.
There's no compulsory driving school in Namibia. There're many taxis driving here, there and everywhere. Be aware of them: our Namibian friends were a little afraid of them as well.Some foreigners who have been staying in the area had mixed feelings about the taxis: the other man said they're ok, provided you ensure you will be the only passanger. The other, an elderly man, kept away from them. Maybe it's best to talk with your local friends and ask them to recommend a taxi driver for you and stick to the person. Those who are used to driving in Namibia are excellent drivers (the cars are very new) because they have been driving all around the country and also into the neighbouring countries.
Windhoek has an international airport served by major airlines. Though best, if you've got the time, way of doing would be a drive from Cape Town entering southern border travelling up north and branching out to east/west sightseeing and working your way up to northern border. This would make the most spectacular scenic drive in a lifetime. You'd feel like having been to the outerspace, stoneage and finally ended up in wild Africa among the big 5.Namibia is also famous for "how long how long will it be before we hit..." Fortunately roads are in mint condition and if engine allows it can be throttled to the max, not that it is legal but anyway.If you're an eager driver do it yourself, I prefer having a driver as I tend to doze off on 'very long' streches in the heat. See pic
The best way to arrive to Windhoek from Capetown is this wonderful modern bus, many miles above the average african standards. You have to check-in your luggage, that goes in a little van behind the main bus. Once inside, you have stewardesses offering you drinks, blankets and "plane-like" facilities.It takes nearly 19 hours to arrive. There's no train alternative.On the way, the bus stops every 3 hours or so during daytime. Leaves CapeTown at noon and arrives in Windhoek at 6-7 am next day.
From London, we flew direct with Air Namibia - quite impressed.Most of our travelling was in a 4x4. We spent our final two days in and around Windhoek where we hired a small car - this was quite expensive (about £50/day including insurance). The roads are excellent and there's not much traffic which could be a problem if you broke down.
Our rental car (Golf Chico) from Avis at Windhoek International Airport. The main rental agencies run a counter at the airport. Smaller local agencies often don't have a counter at the airport, but most of them offer free transportation to their offices in the city centre. We didn't really need a 4WD. Only on the top of the Waterberg Plateau and at Sossusvlei we were not able to drive with our 2WD. When you are driving a lot, it appeared to be a good idea, to rent (or to buy) a cool box. It will cool your drinks and films.
NamibAir form Munich to Windhoek! Also going from London (...was going)Best way to get around is by far a rental 4x4! But not always (never) the cheapest way! Also lots of travel companys provide several tours!! In a very reasonable price one can organize a tour personally for you! In Windhoek, only way to get around is a taxi (as far as I remember).
By plane or by road.I drove from Gaborone(Botswana)to Swakopmund,three times.There is new road called Trans Kalahari that goes from South Africa to Namibia.Have to be carefull with catle that goes around freely and with some wild animals as well.Drive at night is not recomended again because of animals.You'll need a car.If you wana go to the desert or in the bush you'll definitelly need a 4x4.
Normally one transits via South Africa (Johannesburg) and then to Windhoek. If you are planning to go to the coast, you can fly directly from Johannesburg to Walvis Bay.Rent a car, on the coast use Triple Three Rentals, they have offices in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Good prices and very good service. In Windhoek you can use Andes Car Hire or Kessler Car Hire.
Hotel Heinitzburg Windhoek
1 Review and 63 Opinions We only stayed for one night sadly, as on our return to Windhoek we travelled on to a game farm. But...
Rostock Ritz Namib-Naukluft Park
1 Review and 15 Opinions It is a desert Motel - in the middle of nowhere but the accomodation is great. Make your...
Hansa Hotel Swakopmund
1 Review and 65 Opinions the hotel was well located and the rooms that I had to pass by on the way to mine looked good. Mine...
Reviews and photos of Namibia attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Namibia sightseeing.
More Cities in Namibia
More Regions in Namibia
Q: Hi, I've been looking into planning a trip to Namibia and Botswana, but I haven't been finding much useful information as to how...
A: The two countries share a huge border. I've been through the crossings at either end of the Caprivi Strip so could offer general comments (although better travelled...
Read 6 Replies
Sponsored Links
