Namibia
Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH): This is the main international airport, located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) east of Windhoek city center. Most international flights arrive here. The airport offers currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, car rental desks, restaurants, and lounges. Wi-Fi access is typically available, though sometimes for a fee 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 South African 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 directly to hotels 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 taxi appears licensed and safe.
Major international and local car rental companies maintain counters at WDH. Pre-booking your rental car is strongly recommended, especially for 4x4 vehicles, due to high demand. Collect your vehicle directly from the airport.
Booking your airport shuttle or car rental before you arrive. This saves time and supports a smooth transfer, especially after a long international flight.
For taxis from WDH, it is advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand with the driver or use a pre-booked service to avoid overpaying. Verify the taxi appears licensed and safe.
Many major international and local car rental companies maintain counters at WDH. Collecting your vehicle 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 necessary travel documents, including your passport, any required visas, and vehicle permits if driving 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 car rentals 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 towns and cities (e.g., B1, B2). Many roads, especially to popular 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 access to the city.
Travelers arriving by cruise ship would disembark at Walvis Bay and then 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 international flights 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, and 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.
