Planning Timeline: Windhoek

Essential Planning Phases

Timely actions make for a smoother journey.

Organized Preparation

A timeline for your travel preparation.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Ensure passport validity (6+ months) and apply for visa if needed (allow weeks).

Flight Booking

Book international flights to Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH).

Health & Insurance

Consult clinic for vaccinations, discuss malaria prophylaxis, purchase travel insurance.

Month Before

Accommodation & Car

Book accommodation in Windhoek and multi-day extensions. Reserve your rental car.

Itinerary & Tours

Plan a rough itinerary. Confirm any tours or activities you wish to book in advance.

Document Copies

Make copies (digital and physical) of all essential documents.

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all your bookings: flights, accommodation, car rental, and tours.

Packing & Banking

Pack appropriate clothing. Inform your bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Transfers & Apps

Download offline maps and useful apps. Arrange airport transfers from WDH.

Advance Bookings

Bookings needed for smooth travel.

Reservations

Flights, visas (if relevant).
Accommodation (especially high season).
Rental car (if self-driving).
Popular multi-day tours.

Pre-Trip Research

Research recommendations for your trip.

Information Sources

Read reputable guidebooks (e.g., Bradt Guide to Namibia).
Review official tourism websites.
Check current travel advisories from your government.
Read blogs or forums for recent traveler experiences.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home before departure.

Communication

Inform family or friends of your itinerary.
Provide them with emergency contacts.
Arrange to hold your mail.
Arrange for pet care if needed.

House Security

Secure your home (lock doors, windows).
Notify neighbors of your absence.
Consider smart home devices for remote monitoring.
Set lights on timers.

Digital Readiness

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel.
Download offline maps for your destination.
Download useful travel apps.
Backup important digital files before leaving.

Early Planning

Begin visa applications and vaccination consultations three months before your trip. These processes span a period.

Arrival & Departure

Initial steps upon arrival and preparations for a smooth departure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). Have passport, visa (if applicable), and Yellow Fever certificate ready.
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
3
Airport Transfer
Locate your pre-arranged airport transfer service or taxi.

Orientation Strategies

Local SIM Card
Get a local SIM card from MTC or TN Mobile at the airport or in the city.
Local Currency
Withdraw Namibian Dollars from an ATM for immediate cash needs.
Neighborhood Familiarization
Check into accommodation. Familiarize yourself with nearby shops, restaurants, and transport.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs & Shipping

For large/fragile souvenirs, inquire about shipping directly from the shop.

Check customs regulations for your home country (e.g., animal products).

VAT Refund Procedures

Keep original tax invoices from participating vendors.

Present invoices and goods to VAT Refund Office at WDH before departure. Allow extra time.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.

This period allows sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration.

SIM Card Acquisition

Acquire a local SIM card at the airport. This first step allows connectivity and navigation app use.

Departure Day Logistics

Final steps for a smooth exit from Windhoek.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details.
Complete online check-in if available.
Pack efficiently, ensuring all belongings are accounted for.
Dispose of any waste responsibly.

Final Document Check

Ensure your passport is readily accessible.
Have your boarding pass in an easily reachable location.
If claiming VAT refunds, have all documents organized.
Double-check all final arrangements.

Departure Timing

Adhere to recommended airport arrival times.

Airport Arrival Guidelines

International flights:2-3 hours before departure
Allows for:Check-in, security, immigration
Peak travel times:Consider extra time
Transfers:Confirm day prior

Last-Minute Checks

Return any rental car keys promptly.
Empty waste bins in your accommodation.
Unplug electronics to save power.
Ensure your phone is charged for travel.

Final Preparations

Reconfirm your airport transfer time the day before departure.

Gather all necessary documents for VAT refunds, if applicable.

Planning Timeline