#namibia travel #

Namibia Register Travel insurance Destinations

Last updated: November 19, 2015 08:59 ET Still valid: December 1, 2015 06:43 ET Latest updates: An editorial change was made.

Advisories

Advisories

NAMIBIA - Exercise a high degree of caution

There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Namibia. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to the high level of crime.

Security

Security

The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The purpose of this Travel Advice is to provide up-to-date information to enable you to make well-informed decisions.

Peace in Angola has improved the security situation along the Namibia-Angola border. Due to the risk of banditry, however, you should exercise caution when travelling to this area, including the region of Kavango in the northeast and the western half of the Zambezi region (formerly known as Caprivi). Use official border crossing areas only to enter neighbouring countries.

Crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is prevalent. Vehicle theft and break-ins also occur. Violent crime, such as muggings and robberies targeting foreigners, has increased, particularly in Windhoek. Remain alert to your surroundings, ensure that your personal belongings and travel documents are secure, and avoid the townships and remote areas after dark. Avoid walking alone after dark. Keep your vehicle doors locked and windows shut, to deter carjacking and theft. Do not keep valuables in your car. There have been reports of thefts from vehicles at service stations.

You should be cautious of persons ostensibly looking for assistance by the side of the road. Unsuspecting tourists have been victims of armed attacks.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are rare and are concentrated in Windhoek. They can disrupt traffic and business. You should exercise caution and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

Landmines

Be aware of the presence of landmines in the border area from Katwitwi (a village on the Okavango River in Western Kavango region) to Kongola (a town in the Zambezi region).

Road travel

Traffic drives on the left. Avoid night-time driving outside urban centres. Careful driving is particularly important on rural roads, many of which are gravel with sloping sand shoulders. Road conditions are generally good, but much of the country is covered by desert; overland travel takes considerable time. Sand, salt and gravel roads become very slippery when wet. Tourists are often involved in single-vehicle accidents. Do not exceed 80 km/h on gravel roads. Excessive speed and animals on the roadway pose hazards. Emergency and roadside assistance is unreliable or non-existent outside Windhoek. Overland travel via the Trans-Caprivi Highway between Rundu and Katima Mulilo should be undertaken during daylight hours only. Avoid stopping at roadside rest stops, where robberies have been known to occur.

An original Canadian driver s licence in English is accepted, but a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. If hiring a car, pay particular attention to the insurance coverage provided: ensure you have comprehensive insurance.

Road travel to desert areas should be undertaken with sufficient water and fuel supplies and two spare tires. Travel by convoy if you plan to go to the desert.

Public transportation

Buses and taxis operate in the capital. Public transportation is limited outside Windhoek. There have been reports of foreigners being robbed by taxi drivers. The Namibia Bus and Taxi Association (NABTA) regulates taxi drivers by allocating registration numbers (one letter followed by a two-digit number). Use registered taxis (displaying the NABTA logo) only or arrange for a taxi through a reputable hotel.

Air travel

The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.

Fraud

Cases of attempted fraud are frequently reported in this country. See Overseas Fraud for more information.

There have been reports of credit card copying in some hotels and lodges. When paying by credit card, keep your card in view at all times. Be extra vigilant at automated banking machines (ABMs), as criminals may attempt to distract you or offer assistance with the aim of stealing your money. Don t accept any offer of assistance and cancel your transaction if you become suspicious.

General safety information

Avoid visiting townships unless accompanied by someone with local knowledge.

When visiting parks and game reserves, remain with your group and observe all local or park regulations and instructions given by tour guides, as wild animals pose risks. Potentially dangerous areas may lack fences and warning signs.

Carry a copy of your passport at all times.

Emergency services

In Windhoek, dial 211 111 for emergencies. If calling from a mobile phone, dial 112.

Entry/exit requirements

Entry/exit requirements

It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Namibian authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the High Commission of the Republic of Namibia and its consulates for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Passport

To visit Namibia, Canadians must present a passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country s entry rules. An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds are required upon entry to the country.

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days

Business visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days