Security

Namibia is generally a safe country to visit and is one of the safest countries to travel to on the African continent. However, you should take the warnings of the Foreign Office seriously and behave accordingly: no overland travel at night due to the increased risk of accidents, no walks in the cities at night due to possible muggings, and you should also avoid public parking lots on the roads if they are unattended or you are alone there.

Statistically speaking, Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa. If you follow certain "rules of the game", you can enjoy your vacation without any great risk. And always remember... if you wave banknotes around and are careless with your valuables (e.g. leave them in the car), you should not be surprised if you are robbed. What is a normal possession for us, even if it is only a wristwatch, means great wealth in some Namibian eyes. Never walk or drive into a township without a local guide. Do not leave any valuables in the car; the rental car is insured, but your luggage is not. Do not pick up hitchhikers; you should also not hitchhike yourself. Do not carry any valuables in plain sight. Passports, flight tickets and large amounts of money belong in the hotel safe. Enquire about safe public transport or recognized cab companies.

Take your cell phone with you (ask your mobile phone provider about roaming), borrow one at the airport or buy an inexpensive prepaid device. The general emergency number is 112. The latest safety information can be found at www.auswaertiges-amt.de.