The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Namibia

Dune 45 in Sossusvlei region in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namib Desert, Namibia
Dune 45 in Sossusvlei region in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namib Desert, Namibia | © Luca Galuzzi / WikiCommons
Rukee Kaakunga

Namibia, home to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and friendliest people, is a must-see. As a backpacker you’ll find many places here that are bucket-list worthy, offering you the opportunity to have the most spectacular time. We provide the ultimate guide to backpacking in Namibia.

Backpacking in Namibia

Tourism is one of Namibia’s biggest sectors, so finding the right way to explore the country is easy as the sector is professionally run to meet the highest of service standards. All kinds of backpackers can be found exploring Namibia’s vast landscape throughout the year. Tourists from southern African countries make use of multiple access points to Namibia along its borders with Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa. Others travel from as further afield to find out just what this charming country is all about. Every corner of Namibia offers the backpacker a unique experience.

speech icon man in bubble

Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
speech icon man in bubble
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

The Namibian desert

If it’s lush green vegetation and rivers you wish to explore, the north-eastern regions are a ideal for you. To sand board on the tallest dunes in the world, go camel riding, or simply take in some of the most breathtaking sunsets you will ever see, the coast is where you’ll want to explore. Spooky ghost houses and shipwrecks will keep you fascinated when visiting the coastal town of Luderitz – you haven’t tasted great sea food in Namibia if you’ve never made it to their annual cray fish festival.

From the desert to mountains and waterfalls, Namibia has it all

Essentials

It’s absolutely crucial to hire a car when travelling to remote areas, as transport is not easily available. For a more affordable accommodation alternative try camping, which is both cheap and convenient for the traveller on a budget.

The people

Namibians are a diverse group of people who speak different languages and come from different cultural backgrounds. They are known to be very friendly and welcoming of visitors, so don’t be shy to make new friends when visiting. English is the official language, but when visiting rural areas you may want to learn some common phrases to connect with the locals. Because cultures are so diverse, accepted conventions while staying in the capital city of Windhoek are not necessarily what’s accepted in smaller towns and villages. For example, make sure to observe how locals greet each other or show respect to one another – it goes a long way in getting people to be more open to you.

Himba traditions

Currency

The Namibian dollar is the official currency traded, while the South African Rand is also widely used. Swiping facilities are widely available in urban areas but not in smaller, more remote areas. However, major credit and debit cards are accepted at most accomodation sites. One USD is equivalent to 13.25 Namibian dollars (as at July 2018).

Food and accomodation

Namibia’s restaurant scene is still growing, but a few spots offer some great meals at decent prices – simply ask around for referrals. The most famous local dish, kapana will be an absolute experience to try out. Consisting of thinly-cut beef strips roasted over an open fire, this local delicacy best goes down with a freshly-chopped relish and an ice-cold beer. This dish will cost you no more than seven USD for a portion that can feed four.

A typical kapana in a Namibian food market

Costs

1 meal (USD$2–$11) Depending on where you choose to have a meal, upscale or at a very affordable eatery such as a local market.
1 beer (USD$1–$2)
1 night at a backpacker hotel (USD$12–$22)
1 cheap mode of transport (USD$0.75–$2)
1 hygiene/medical essential (USD$0.75–$2)
1 affordable experience, eg entry to a music festival in the city (USD$3–$6)

Where to go

Brandberg

Head to Brandberg, for the mountain climber who dares to take on the toughest terrains for the pursuit of the most unforgettable mountain peak in Namibia. Climbing Brandberg mountain will reward you greatly. This, the highest peak in Namibia, is home to some of the world’s oldest rock carvings and rock art and the the famous Welwitschia mirabilis plant. Make sure to pack enough sunscreen as the harsh afternoon sun is unforgiving.

The view atop Brandberg mountain makes the challenging task of climbing it well worth the effort

Zambezi region

Home to most of Namibia’s rivers and probably the country’s friendliest people, the Zambezi is a visitor’s delight. The region offers easy entry and exit between Namibia and four other countries. The most popular local delicacy, fried Zambezi bream, is best eaten at the open market in the region’s economic hub, Katima Mulilo. Make sure to carry mosquito repellent and get your anti-malaria shot at least one week before visiting. Don’t miss out on the boat rides that are both a terrifying (watch out for crocodiles and hippos) and thrilling.

Watch out for hippos as you explore the Zambezi

Swakopmund

Namibia’s coastal gem, Swakopmund is a quaint coastal town known for its German architecture and beautiful beaches. While many activities in the town can be pricey, other fun things to do, like visiting the local museum, the snake park and aquarium, will cost you little to nothing. The highest dune in the Namib Desert, Dune 7, is just a few minutes drive away in neighbouring Walvisbay. Swakopmund gets very busy during December when it’s hot, and locals as well as tourists flock to the beaches to seek relief from the scorching weather.

Swakopmund, with its beautiful sandy beaches, is one of Namibia’s biggest tourist towns

Safety

While it has long prided itself as being one of the safest African countries to visit, crime has become an issue of concern, and as a tourist is not something that should be taken lightly. Namibia, however, remains much safer than many other countries on the continent, and tourists will be happy to know that a special Tourist Protection Unit within the Namibian Police Force has been specifically set up to fight tourist-related crime. National Parks remain some of the safest places to visit in the country, but as one should do when travelling anywhere in the world, safety precautions should always be a priority. Don’t travel at night, avoid walking around with large wads of cash and always be aware of your surroundings.

Safaris are among the safest activities in Namibia
culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

X

Holiday Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

Edit article