Travel Vaccines and Advice for Namibia

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Namibia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Namibia: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are all present in Namibia. Take measure to protect yourself including using mosquito netting, insect repellents and taking antimalarials (if recommended for your itinerary).

African sleeping sickness has been found in Namibia. Though no cases have been reported in nearly a decade, there is still a risk. Use insect repellents and try to avoid tsetse flies when in regions where the insect is present.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

Canadians planning to visit Namibia will need a visa to enter the country. You will also need a valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure.

Namibia Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Namibia?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Namibia and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Travellers to Namibia must show proof of vaccination at entry or they will not be allowed into the country.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

Namibia is one of the sunniest countries on the planet. The nation experiences about 300 days of sun each year. Humidity is often low, but the air can be quite dry. This sun and warmth is typical of most regions in Namibia, but the climate can differ slightly across the country. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:

• Windhoek – In the capital city, the temperatures are more moderate. The typical high in January, the peak summer month in Namibia, is about 32, and the average low is 16 degrees Celsius. The temperatures in the winter months, July and June, are a bit cooler. There is usually no rainfall between June and September.
• Swakopmund – The coastal city of Swakopmund has a milder desert climate. The weather is more consistent and varies less than in areas such as Windhoek. The average temperatures in Swakopmund range from about 16 to 27. Rainfall is also light in this region.
• Etosha Pan – This region is a popular tourist destination, as it provides the opportunity for many ecotours and wildlife adventures. Again, rainfall in the Etosha region is as rare as it is in other areas in Namibia. In the summer, temperatures can hit around 35 degrees Celsius, and can go as low as 16. The dry winters range are more mild.

There are varying levels and types of criminal activity in Namibia.

Banditry is prevalent along the Namibia-Angola border. Make sure you only pass through official border crossing areas and travel during the day. There are police checkpoints 9 mile outside of all major cities and highways. Keep all travel and identification materials with you at all times.

Crimes of opportunity often occur in Namibia. The most prevalent incidents reported include ATM card skimming, purse snatching and pick-pocketing. More violent crimes, like rape and murder, have increased in the capital of Windhoek. Residential break-ins also occur.

To avoid risk of these crimes, dress conservatively, do not flaunt valuables and avoid walking alone and at night.

Many tourists flock to Namibia to experience untouched, wild landscapes and animals. Ecotours are very popular among travellers. Hiking, swimming, camping and driving through the wilderness are also choice adventures.

Encounters with wildlife can be dangerous, as animals can be unpredictable. Remember that the creatures you may meet are not domesticated, and are not guaranteed to be friendly. This fact remains true no matter how small or cute a creature may be. Many tourists want to touch or feed animals. But, this can provoke them and lead to potentially violent attacks.

Always bring enough water and supplies on every adventure you partake in.

In addition to all travel documents and medications recommended by a Passport Health Travel Medicine Specialist, here are some items to consider packing:

• Insect Repellent – Since malaria is at risk in Namibia, be sure to pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will keep mosquitoes at bay. You should also bring neutral colored clothing, as this does not attract insects as much as dark or bright clothes.
• Water Purifier – Not all running and tap water in Namibia is clean or filtered. Avoid drinking it or even brushing your teeth in it. A water purifier will make finding and drinking clean water easier.
• Warm Clothing – Depending on the time of year and region temperatures can be cold. The evenings also tend to cool down, meaning you may need to add some layers if you’re planning to go out after sundown. Packing a few jackets and warm pants will make sure that you are covered.
• Batteries – It can be difficult to find batteries in Namibia. If you have any devices that rely on batteries, such as cameras, it may be wise to pack some extras. In a country this naturally beautiful, you wouldn’t want to miss any chance to take a quick snapshot.

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Namibia is served by the High Commission of Canada in South Africa:

High Commission of Canada in South Africa
1103 Arcadia Street
Hatfield, Pretoria, 0083, South Africa
Telephone: +27 12 422 3000

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!