Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH): This is the principal international airport, situated about 45 kilometers (28 miles) east of Windhoek city center. Most international flights arrive here. The airport offers currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, car hire counters, restaurants, and lounges. Wi-Fi access is typically available, though sometimes at a cost or with limited free access.
International Carriers: Major airlines offering international connections include Eurowings Discover (from Frankfurt, Germany), Qatar Airways (from Doha, Qatar), Ethiopian Airlines (from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia), and From South africa Airways (from Johannesburg, South Africa). Direct flights to Windhoek mainly depart from Frankfurt, Germany. Other international connections generally include layovers in major African or Middle Eastern hubs.
Several companies, like Dial-a-Cab and Windhoek Airport Transfer Service, offer scheduled or pre-booked shuttle services straight from to accommodations and guesthouses. This is a popular and reliable option.
Taxis stand available outside the terminal. It is advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or use a pre-booked service to avoid overpaying. Confirm the taxicab appears licensed and safe.
Major international and local car rental companies maintaover the counter at WDH. Pre-booking your rental car is strongly recommended, especially for off-road vehicles, due to high demand. Collect your car directly from the airport.
Booking your shuttle to the airport or car rental before you arrive. This saves time and aids a seamless transfer, especially after a long international flight.
For taxis from WDH, it's a good idea to negotiate the fare beforehand with the driver or use a pre-booked service to avoid overpaying. Verify the taxicab appears licensed and safe.
Many major global and domestic car rental companies maintain stores at WDH. Collecting your automobile directly from the airport offers convenience.
Border Crossings: Namibia shares land borders with South Africa, Botswana, Angola, and Zambia. Major border posts are generally efficient and well-managed. For South Africa, key posts include Noordoewer/Vioolsdrif and Ariamsvlei/Nakop. For Botswana, Buitepos/Mamuno stands as the primary border post. Make sure you have all your necessary travel papers, including your passport, any required visas, and vehicle permits if behind the wheel a rented car across borders.
Intercape Mainliner: This represents the most reputable and comfortable long-distance bus service. Intercape connects Windhoek to major cities in South Africa (e.g., Johannesburg, Cape Town) and other Namibian towns like Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Rundu. Buses are generally well-maintained and offer a reliable option for inter-city travel. Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes.
Requirements: A valid national driving license is sufficient if it is in English and includes a photograph. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary. The minimum driving age for hiring a car is typically 21 or 23, with specific stipulations for 4x4 vehicles. Namibia drives on the left-hand side of the road. Petrol (95 Octane Unleaded) and Diesel are widely available at petrol stations. Attendants pump fuel, and a small tip is customary.
Main Roads: Generally, good quality tarred roads connect major municipalities (e.g., B1, B2). Many roads, particularly to well-known tourist attractions (like Sossusvlei or remote lodges), are gravel. These gravel roads are corrugated, dusty, and challenging to drive on. A 4x4 vehicle often carries a recommendation for extensive travel outside main tarred routes for ground clearance and durability.
Windhoek counts as a landlocked capital city. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable for direct entry to the city.
Travelers arriving by cruise ship would disembark at Walvis Bay and subsequently arrange land transport to Windhoek if desired.
The B2 road connects Walvis Bay to Windhoek, providing a direct tarred route.
The drive from Walvis Bay to Windhoek typically takes around 4 hours.
For faster travel, local flights are available from Walvis Bay Airport to Eros Airport in Windhoek.
Exit Fees: Departure taxes for flights abroad from Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) are typically included in the airline ticket price. You usually do not need to pay a separate cash payment at the airport. Confirm this with your airline or travel agent.
Hosea Kutako International Airport: Hosea Kutako International Airport offers basic facilities for departing travelers. You will find cafes, small shops, plus lounges located after security. These present opportunities for a final snack or to purchase last-minute souvenirs.
Confirm airport transfer or car rental drop-off time. Have enough Namibian Dollars for last-minute purchases or tips at the airport.
Passport, boarding pass, and any other necessary travel documents are readily accessible.
Baggage checked for weight limits. Any liquids in carry-on comply with regulations.
Reconfirm your airport transfer or car rental drop-off time the day before your departure. Confirm you have enough Namibian Dollars for any last-minute purchases or tips at the airport.
