Namibia Flights and Travel Guide

Language

English is the official language, but many people also speak Afrikaans and German. There are also several indigenous languages spoken, mainly in the rural areas.

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Money

The official currency is the Namibia Dollar (NAD) divided into 100 cents. Its value is equal to the South African Rand, which is also accepted as legal currency in Namibia. Major credit cards are accepted. Travelers checks and foreign currency can be exchanged at any bank or bureau de change, though cash is more expensive to exchange than travelers checks. ATMs are available in larger towns only.

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Communications

The international access code for Namibia is +264. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)61 for Windhoek. Most towns are covered by a GSM 900/1800 mobile network. Internet access is available from some hotels and Internet cafes are available in Windhoek and Walvis Bay.

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Tipping

Tips of 10 percent are expected by tourist-orientated establishments where a service charge has not been included in the bill. Tour guides, game rangers and trackers rely on tips for their income, but these are discretionary and depend on good service.

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Safety

The majority of visits to Namibia are trouble-free, but beware of street crime and pickpockets in the town centers. Theft from vehicles, especially from service stations, is common and valuables should be kept out of sight and the car locked.

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Health

A yellow fever certificate is required for all travelers arriving from infected areas. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A, typhoid fever and polio are also recommended. Travelers should ensure their polio vaccination is up to date. There is a malaria risk in the northern region during the rainy season, from January to April. HIV/AIDS is prevalent and cautions are essential. There has been an increase in the incidence of rabies among dogs in Windhoek. There are good medical facilities in Windhoek, but medical insurance is essential as treatment is expensive. Travelers to Namibia should take medical advice at least four weeks prior to departure.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round three-pin plugs are standard.

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