Namibia is a terrific country to drive around, however, we have put together a few hints for you to help you on your way - its mainly common sense ...
We drive on the left hand side
Passengers in the back as well as the front seats must wear seatbelts.
To drive a vehicle in Namibia, you need a valid driving licence and must carry it with you when you are driving - this does not have to be an international licence but does need to be written in English.
Please ensure that you are fully insured - we receommend you take out zero excess or low excess rate on your vehicle, however, if you have an accident and it is proven you were driving recklessly (ie speeding around a corner on a dirt road this will no longer be valid and you will be held responsible)
Before leaving on your self-drive tour, make sure your vehicles brakes are in good working order and that all checks have been made on the car to ensure its in good working order. You are responsible for the car once you have departed
Always carry at least one spare tyre. When visiting remote areas, it’s advisable to carry a second spare tyre and a tyre repair kit
In Namibia, 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended when travelling on remote roads
You should carry a good first aid kit
Ensure that you have enough fuel for the journey you have planned. Fill your tank at every available opportunity, even though you may not be in immediate need - you don't want to arrive somewhere to find there is no fuel (and that is possible) and discover you don't have enough fuel to get to the next destination
Always carry water when you travel for the day's journey, also in case you have a breakdown or become stuck
Ensure that you have a reasonable map with you before leaving on your trip. When you leave the official roads marks on your map there may be no road signs to direct you and the condition of the road may be poor.
B roads are best quality and tar, C roads are good gravel, D roads are gravel and can vary in quality so please ensure that you exercise caution
Please take time to listen carefully to the safety briefing given by your car hire company -they have the local knowledge and experience of the roads you are travelling on
Ask advice on the condition of the roads in the areas you plan to visit particularly during the rainy season - some years we experience extreme weather conditions - this means that there is a risk of flash flooding - from this, roads can be washed away, rivers flow and as they retreat leave rocks and sand in its path - this can cause undercarriage damage to your vehicle that you will be liable for. In addition, check LOCAL connections regarding conditions, it may be that some roads are closed or impassable and these conditions can change quickly. If a river is flowing then test it yourself before driving over - golden rule - if you can't cross it by foot, you often can't cross it by car. Do not take unnecessary chances!
In rainy or wet conditions, beware of slippery roads, sections of the road washed away, running and/or stagnant water at drifts and/or causeways - some gravel roads are particularly slippery and so a slow speed is essential
Animals often cross the road or graze near the roadside. Both wild and domestic animals frighten easily and can jump directly in front of your moving car
Avoid travelling at night. Wildlife is most active at dusk and the possibility of a collision at this time is vastly increased
When entering any game park or other area where there are wild animals, read the safety guideline available. It is dangerous to leave your vehicle when you are in a wildlife area.
As distances are long, take regular breaks. Take care at roadside picnic stops particularly around towns, robberies are known to occur though they are not common |