Namibia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial +264-61-10111 for police.
• Dial +264-61-10177 for ambulance.

Crime

• Non-violent crimes of opportunity are the most common incidents reported by foreigners. They include pick pocketing, purse snatching, ATM card skimming, and vehicle thefts and break-ins.
• Robberies most often occur at roadside rest stops in areas frequented by tourists. 
• Criminals sometimes brandish knives and guns.
• Violent and property crimes, including murder and rape, have increased in Windhoek over past years.

Safety tips:

• Dress conservatively. 
•  Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. Do not display cash and valuable personal property. 
• Make sure your hotel room or residence is well secured, including windows. 
• Always keep your credit card in your sight while it is being processed. Consider using prepaid credit cards with limited funds when traveling. 
• Take rest breaks in towns or at gasoline stations. 
• The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund at 081-9682 can help with ambulances, police, and rescue services. 

Transport crimes

Violent assaults on taxi passengers can occur. Petty theft is common and occurs on trains, buses, and in taxis. 

• Be aware of criminals using remote key fobs to unlock vehicle doors in parking lots. 
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
• Keep valuables out of sight. Do not use cell phones or laptops while stopped in traffic. Bandits may use smash and grab tactics to steal valuables.
• Hire taxis through a hotel or retain the services of a reputable private transport company.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Victims of crime

American victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at + 264-61-10111 and contact the U.S. embassy at + 264-61-202-5000.

Tourist Protection Units (TPUs) assist tourists that are victims of crime in Windhoek and Swakopmund. Please contact: 

• Tourist Protection Unit – Windhoek (Windhoek Main Police Station) at + 264-61-209-4345 or + 264-81-615-4401. 
• Tourist Protection Unit – Swakopmund at + 264-64-415-060. 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. 

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• American victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• American victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• Americans are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

Climbing areas, 4x4 roads, hiking trails, and rivers are unpredictable and dangerous. They are often located in isolated areas without access to communications and away from any medical assistance. Dozens of people, including Americans, have been injured or drowned.

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Safety tips:

• Leave a copy of your identification, travel documents, and an itinerary with the hotel reception desk when you go on excursions. This helps police and rescue teams in the event of a problem.
• Bring sufficient water and supplies, including a satellite phone preprogrammed with emergency numbers.
• Provide a detailed travel plan and return date to family and friends in the United States before your excursion.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• Americans must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• Do not purchase diamonds and other protected resources outside of licensed retail establishments. If you are convicted of illegally dealing in diamonds, you can face up to 20,000 U.S. dollars in fines and 5 years in prison.
• Unlicensed purchase of or trading in endangered wildlife parts, such as ivory and rhino horn, is illegal. It carries severe penalties including fines up to 1.1 million U.S. dollars and 15 years in prison.
• It is illegal to kill or capture any protected wild animals without appropriate permits.
• It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure. This includes ports, train stations, airports, and long border areas. You could face fines, have your photographic equipment confiscated, and risk detention and arrest. Do not take photos of people without their permission.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Namibia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Detention conditions

• A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.
• Detention facilities in Namibia are usually overcrowded. They have inadequate food and unsanitary conditions.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Namibia.
• In a controversial 2024 ruling, Namibia’s High Court struck down laws criminalizing sodomy. Many Namibians consider all same-sex sexual activity taboo. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Namibia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.
• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and information services.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

There are frequent reports of rapes, particularly in informal settlements.

• Only a small number of rape cases are prosecuted and fewer still result in conviction.
• Use of date rape drugs has been reported at night clubs and bars in Namibia—especially in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, and Swakopmund.
• Gender-based Violence Protection Units intervene in cases of domestic violence, which is common.
• Units are staffed with police officers, social workers, legal advisors, and medical personnel trained to help victims of sexual assault.
• A privately run shelter operates in the Khomas region. There are government shelters in other regions.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Namibia Traveler Information
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial +264-61-10177 for emergency medical 

Ambulance services

• Dial +264-61-10177 for ambulance, although these services are not widely available. 
• Dial 081-9682 in the event of a car accident, the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund at can help with ambulances, police, and rescue services. 
• Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

• Yellow fever: Required if arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa.
• Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Adequate health facilities are available in Windhoek and other major towns. Health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. 

• Hospitals and doctors usually require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
• Some hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient. 
• Medical staff may speak little English outside of Windhoek, especially in rural areas. 
• Patients bear all costs for transfers to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions. 

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.
• Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Namibia. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Namibia. 
• Anyone traveling to Namibia for medical purposes must have a proper “medical” visa. 
• Review the Government of Namibia’s website for more information. 

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.
• The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Namibia with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. 
• Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Namibian courts.

Water quality and food safety

• In many areas, tap water is not potable.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. However, many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 

Altitude

• There are a few mountains in Namibia like Brandberg mountain and Ausa Mountain which are at high altitude.
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the Spring. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Namibia.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• Review the Medicine and Health page for general health information.

Travel and transportation

Road conditions and safety

Major roads are generally well maintained, but many rural roads are gravel. Fatal accidents are common.

• The road from Windhoek to Swakopmund is paved, but it’s also the site of many fatal accidents, particularly between Usakos and Arandis.
• Tourists are often involved in single vehicle roll-over accidents.
• Sand, salt, and gravel roads become very slippery when wet and more dangerous at night.
• Animals easily visible by day become treacherous hazards in roadways at night. Do not exceed 45 mph (80km) on gravel roads.
• Many rental vehicle agencies void insurance policies if an accident occurs while speeding.
• Tire punctures are common.
• Accidents involving drunk drivers are common.
• Other driving hazards include excessive speed, lack of street lighting and shoulders, inadequately maintained vehicles, erratic driving habits, and pedestrians.
• Do not travel after dark anywhere outside Namibia’s cities. Travel in desert areas or via the Trans-Caprivi Highway between Rundu and Katima Mulilo should only be undertaken during daylight hours.
• Carry water, additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Fuel availability can be limited. Professional roadside assistance outside Windhoek or off main roads is unreliable or non-existent.

Traffic laws

• Traffic drives on the left.
• You may use a U.S. license for up to 90 days or obtain an international driving permit prior to leaving the United States. You can do so through either the American Automobile Association or the American Automobile Touring Alliance.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving.
• Seat belts are required for all vehicle occupants.
• Motorcyclists are required to wear protective helmets.
• You may face a charge of culpable homicide if you are driving and are involved in an accident resulting in death.
• Pull to the side of the road as far as possible when you see a motorcade. Follow all officials’ instructions. 

Taxis and ride-shares

• The U.S. embassy has received reports of foreign citizens that were robbed by drivers of taxis hailed on the streets of Windhoek.
• Car rentals or radio taxi — called in advance through established companies; are generally the best means of transport but may be more expensive.
• The U.S. embassy has not received any crime reports regarding radio taxis.
• Avoid hitchhiking in Namibia due to the high level of personal risk.
• Most insurance policies will not cover accidents that do not involve other vehicles or animals. 

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is not widely available outside the capital.

• Taxis and municipal buses are the only forms of public transportation in Windhoek. Schedules and routes are limited. 
• Avoid the use of public transportation and hire private transport from a reliable source. Any form of public transportation is unregulated, unreliable, and generally unsafe. 
• Review our Road Safety page for more information. 
• Visit the websites of Namibia’s Tourism Board and National Road Safety Council.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Namibia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.  
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Namibia should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Namibia experiences two distinct seasons. Each brings different types of natural disasters and risks:

Summer: Floods and heatwaves

• Usually between November to April.
• Very hot and humid, especially in desert areas. Temperatures are often over 40°C (104°F).
• Heavy afternoon rains from January to March.
• Flash floods are common in the northern and north-central Cuvelai-Etosha basin.
• Intense heatwaves events are common.

Winter: Drought, fires and dust storms

• Usually between May to October.
• Clear, sunny days with cold nights. It is often near freezing temperatures between June and July.
• September and October are very hot and dry.
• Drought can lead to food insecurity and water shortages.
• Veld or bush fires are common
• Dust and sandstorms are common especially along the coast near Lüderitz due to strong winds.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates