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Resources & References

Resources & References

Namibia

Recommended Reading

Guidebooks & Maps

  • Bradt Guide to Namibia

    Highly regarded for in-depth coverage, practical information, detailed insights.

  • Physical Maps

    Detailed physical maps prove useful, especially for self-driving.

  • Road Clarity

    Choose a map showing both tarred and gravel roads clearly.

  • GPS Limitations

    GPS can be unreliable in remote areas, a physical map serves as backup.

  • Comprehensive Coverage

    A good map helps traverse Namibia's diverse regions.

Books & Local Publications

  • "The Sheltering Desert"

    By Henno Martin, a true story about desert survival during WWII.

  • "Undiscovered: The Wild Places of Namibia"

    By Christine Huish, demonstrating Namibia's natural beauty through photography.

  • Local Newspapers

    The Namibian (English), Republikein (Afrikaans), Allgemeine Zeitung (German).

  • Current Affairs

    These publications offer local news, current events, and insights into society.

  • Pre-trip Immersion

    Reading these before travel lends context and appreciation for the country.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

Watch films about Namibia's wildlife, landscapes, history, or cultures. This provides visual context and inspires your journey.

Music & Art

Listen to Namibian music. Explore local artists. This immerses you in the sounds and artistic expressions of the country.

Online Communities

Join online travel communities or forums focused on Namibia or Southern Africa. Ask questions and read travel experiences.

Ecosystem Documentaries

Wildlife Exploration

  • Explore films about Namibia's wildlife and landscapes.
  • Visual content enhances appreciation for your journey.
  • Look for documentaries on Etosha National Park.
  • Learn about the Himba people.

Desert Insights

  • Discover films focusing on the Namib Desert.
  • These provide strong visual appreciation for the unique heritage.
  • Understand the diverse ecosystems.
  • Prepare for the beauty of the vast drylands.

Local Media

The Namibian

  • English language newspaper.
  • Covers national and international news.
  • Daily publication.
  • Widely read across the country.

Republikein

  • Afrikaans language newspaper.
  • Focuses on local Namibian news.
  • Part of the Namibia Media Holdings.
  • Offers a different perspective.

Allgemeine Zeitung

  • German language newspaper.
  • Oldest newspaper in Namibia.
  • Caters to the German-speaking community.
  • Provides unique cultural insights.

Emergency & Medical Information

Important Safety Steps

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 10111
  • Ambulance: 211111 (government)
  • EMed Rescue: +264 61 411 600 (private)
  • Fire: 211111

Hospital Locations

  • Lady Pohamba Private Hospital: +264 61 414 000
  • Rhino Park Hospital: +264 61 370 000
  • Roman Catholic Hospital: +264 61 270 2911
  • These private hospitals offer good medical care.

Lost Documents

  • Report lost passports or documents to local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report for your records.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
  • Maintain a list of embassy contact details.

Health & Safety Reminders

Medical Precautions

  • Consult a travel health clinic for vaccinations.
  • Discuss malaria prophylaxis for high-risk areas beyond Windhoek.
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical emergencies.

Emergency Coverage

  • Ensure insurance covers emergency evacuation.
  • Trip cancellation coverage can be .
  • Cover any planned adventure activities.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Flash Flood Awareness

  • Flash floods, though rare in city, occur during heavy rain.
  • Seek higher ground if a flood situation develops.
  • Follow local news and official advisories.

Official Guidance

  • Remain calm during any natural event.
  • Follow instructions from authorities.
  • Stay informed through reliable information channels.

Health & Safety Protocols

Before Your Trip

  1. Consult health clinic for vaccinations.
  2. Discuss malaria prophylaxis.
  3. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
  4. World Nomads provides travel insurance coverage.
  5. Ensure coverage for medical and emergency evacuation.

During Your Stay

  1. Keep emergency numbers accessible.
  2. Know hospital locations.
  3. Understand lost document procedures.
  4. Be aware of natural disaster protocols.
  5. Stay hydrated and use sun protection always.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries

Watch documentaries about Namibia's wildlife, landscapes, history, or cultures for visual context.

Music & Art

Listen to Namibian music and explore local artists to immerse in the country's sounds and expressions.

Online Communities

Join online travel communities or forums focused on Namibia for current advice and shared experiences.

Emergency Numbers Storage

Store emergency numbers on your phone before you travel. Have a physical copy with your travel documents.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

Chronological Timeline 3+ Months

  • Passport Validity

    Check passport: 6+ months validity beyond departure, 2 blank pages.

  • Visa Requirements

    Research visa needs for your nationality. Apply early if needed.

  • Flight Bookings

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

Chronological Timeline 1 Month & 1 Week

  • 1 Month Before

    Book accommodation, rental car, plan rough itinerary. Secure tour bookings.

  • Document Copies

    Make digital and physical copies of essential documents.

  • 1 Week Before

    Confirm all bookings, pack, notify bank, download offline maps, arrange transfers.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Research

Read reputable guidebooks (e.g., Bradt Guide to Namibia). Review official tourism websites and current travel advisories from your government.

Traveler Experiences

Read blogs or forums for recent traveler experiences. This helps gain current perspectives and tips.

Home Preparation

Inform family/friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed. Hold your mail.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • Flights and visas (if applicable).
  • Accommodation, especially useful during high season.
  • Rental car (if you plan to self-drive).
  • Popular multi-day tours (e.g., to Etosha, Sossusvlei).

Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration and customs at WDH.
  • Collect your luggage from baggage claim.
  • Locate your pre-arranged airport transfer service or taxi.
  • Get a local SIM card from MTC or TN Mobile.

Orientation Strategies

Immediate Steps

  • Withdraw local currency (Namibian Dollars) from an ATM.
  • Check into your chosen accommodation.
  • Familiarize yourself with the immediate neighborhood.
  • Locate nearby shops, restaurants, and transport options.

Departure Preparation

  • Souvenir and shipping considerations for large or fragile items.
  • VAT refund procedures (if applicable); keep original tax invoices.
  • Arrive at WDH at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • Confirm return flight details and online check-in. Pack efficiently.

Departure Check

Reconfirm airport transfer time the day before departure.

Gather all VAT refund documents, if applicable.