Complete Guide for Driving Through Namibia & Alternative Options for Exploring the Country

Looking for options for how to get around Namibia? This vast country doesn't have a ton of options, but we're here to help you. Whether you are driving through Namibia or looking at other options, we've got you covered with all of the info you need.

With long distances between major sights, choosing the right mode of transportation is essential for a smooth journey. While many travelers opt for a rental car, there are also buses, domestic flights, and guided tours available. Each option comes with its own advantages, depending on your budget, schedule, and level of adventure.

Understanding Namibia’s road conditions, transport availability, and travel logistics will help you make the most of your trip. Some routes require careful planning, especially when venturing into more remote areas. This guide will explore all the ways to navigate the country, ensuring you have a safe and unforgettable journey.

Namibia Transportation Guide: a Brief Intro

When we decided to visit Namibia, we were on a big road trip through southern Africa, so driving through Namibia was how we explored the country.

Namibia is not a very populated country, and due to the sheer size of it, the transportation options are pretty limited.

Don't worry though! We're here to share all of the details, so that you can choose which transportation option in Namibia is right for you.

❣️ Where to Start Your Trip to Namibia

There are a variety of ways to visit Namibia. The most popular place to start a Namibia trip is by flying into the capital, Windhoek, which is where you can most easily connect to the rest of the country.

If you plan on visiting from another neighboring country like South Africa, Botswana, or Angola, you can visit via the land border and continue driving through Namibia, or go to another city with one of the buses.

⭐️ What is the Best Way to Travel Through Namibia?

The best way to travel through Namibia definitely depends on what kind of traveler you are/ what kind of trip you are looking to have.

If you are adventurous and like exploring on your own time, then the absolute best way to travel through Namibia is by driving through Namibia. If you like to have everything organized for you, then going on a group tour or hiring a driver is the way to go. Looking for the most budget-friendly option? Then you might want to take public buses (although this is not an easy option everywhere).

Check the map below, and you can see where Windhoek is located, as well as the different roads connecting to other surrounding countries.

Namibia Transportation Guide: How to Get Around Namibia

There are a few different ways to get around Namibia. These are the different options:

• Taking internal flights
• Renting a car and driving through Namibia
• Taking public buses from one city to another
• Riding the railways (both public and private trips)
• Joining an organized multi-day tour through Namibia
• Hiring a private driver to take you around

🚗 What is the Most Used Mode of Transport in Namibia?

The most popular way to visit Namibia is by joining an organized tour. This is because of the lack of infrastructure, as well as the comfort of locals being able to bring you around comfortably and safely.

The second most popular option is by renting your own vehicle, which can be a van that you stay in, or a regular car that you can use for driving through Namibia and then staying at hotels around the country.

🚎 How do You Get Around Namibia Without a Car?

We aren't going to lie to you- getting around Namibia without a car is not ideal. This is because there are limited bus routes throughout the country, and most of the top places to visit in Namibia are out in nature, where you won't find a ton of buses or taxis to reach your destination.

🚆 Are There Trains in Namibia?

Yes, there are trains in Namibia, but they are mostly used for freight transport rather than passenger services. The country has a rail network operated by Namibia Railways, which connects some major cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund. However, train services for tourists are a bit more limited compared to other countries, and there aren't many options for daily travel by train.

Despite being limited, we are still going to share all of the different train options in Namibia! (You can click here to skip to that part)

🚙 Are There Ubers in Namibia?

Currently, Uber is not available in Namibia. However, you can use local ride-hailing services like Bolt in Windhoek, the capital, which functions similarly to Uber in terms of booking rides via an app.

🚕 How to Get a Taxi in Namibia?

Taxis in Namibia can be found in major cities, especially in Windhoek. There are no formal taxi ranks in many places, so you usually hail a taxi from the street or book one by phone. You can also ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you. 

Keep in mind that taxis might not always have meters, so we suggest agreeing on a fare before starting your journey.

💵 How Much is Taxi Fare in Namibia?

Taxi fares in Namibia vary depending on the distance and location. In Windhoek, the fare generally starts at NAD 50 to 70 (Namibian dollars) for a short ride within the city. Longer distances or trips to the suburbs could cost more. Always ask for the fare upfront or agree on it before you start your trip to avoid misunderstandings.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Driving Through Namibia

Driving through Namibia is our favorite option for exploring the country, as it really allows you to have flexibility in your schedule, as well as explore some hidden gems in Namibia.

🚘 Can I Drive in Namibia on a Foreign License?

You can absolutely drive with a foreign license! Just remember to have your passport, driver's license, and the car's paperwork with you in case you need to show it to the police or when entering national parks.

👮🏻‍♀️ Is it Safe to Self Drive in Namibia?

Driving in Namibia on your own is totally safe! We loved road tripping around the country and had great experiences.

Here are a few things to keep in mind though:

• You should keep your car in a garage or private parking lot when in bigger cities (Windhoek for example).
• Never leave belongings on sight to avoid break ins.
• Lower your tire pressure when driving through sand so you don't get stuck.
• Always pay attention to signs in case you need a 4x4 (which we recommend!)

🚙 Entering Namibia with a Car

We actually rented our car in South Africa, and drove to Namibia from there! The road to get there was flat and easy to drive along, and customs wasn't too bad. 

We did have to pay upon arrival to for having the car, which was 445 NAD, and Fede had to purchase his visa before entering. We paid with card, but we'd also recommend having cash just in case since the internet over there wasn't the strongest. (We entered from the Vioolsdrif border crossing).

Leaving, we went out via the Buitepos border crossing, driving from Windhoek into Botswana, and we had to show our documents upon departing.

PS: We have a full article about driving from Namibia to Botswana coming up! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all the updates.

How to Get Around Namibia Without a Car

Now that you know what driving in Namibia is like, you'll want to know the details of the other options to make an informed decision of how to get around Namibia. Here are the different options for getting around Namibia without a car:

• Flying domestically
• Taking public buses from one city to another
• Riding the railways (both public and private trips)
• Joining an organized multi-day tour through Namibia
• Hiring a private driver to take you around

✈️ Flying Within Namibia

Namibia is a really large country, so if you need to get from one end to the other, you can always opt for a domestic flight. While this isn't typically the cheapest option, it's a good option for those looking to get from one place to another in the quickest way.

Look for flights within Namibia:

🚂 Trains in Namibia

Earlier we mentioned that there are trains in Namibia, and while they certainly aren't the most common or easy transportation option to come by, there are a few different ways that you can experience Namibia by train.

🚞 StarLine Passenger Service

If you’re looking for an affordable, safe, and comfortable way to travel around Namibia, StarLine is a great option. It’s a daily passenger train service connecting Windhoek to several major towns across the country.

Whether you're heading to a nearby city or exploring new destinations, you'll enjoy the convenience of reclining seats, air-conditioning, vending machines, and entertainment systems on board. You can even choose between Business Class or Economy Class to fit your style.

While driving through Namibia might offer a more flexible experience, StarLine gives you the chance to sit back and relax, with free WiFi, onboard refreshments, and entertainment to make the ride enjoyable—even if it takes a little longer to get to your destination.

🚄 Desert Express

For something a little more luxurious, Desert Express offers an unforgettable experience, taking you on exclusive overnight trips from Windhoek to Swakopmund. This unique train journey lets you soak in the stunning Namibian landscape in style. 

If you’re looking for a longer adventure, Desert Express also offers excursions to the South and Etosha National Park, ranging from 7 to 10 days. Expect elegant dining and cozy accommodations on board. Private charters are available too if you're traveling with a group.

🚆 Special Tourist Trains

TransNamib also assists with tourist trains visiting Namibia, often arriving from South Africa. These special trips include some famous names like Rovos Rail and Shongololo, which are popular for taking in Namibia’s breathtaking scenery and landscapes in true luxury style.

🚌 Buses in Namibia

If you don't want to book a tour or be driving through Namibia on your own, another option for getting around the country with public transportation is via bus.

Intercape is a company that has routes all over southern Africa, and has connections in 13 different Namibia cities across the country.

The cities that have stops in them (from north to south) include Oshikango, Oshakati, Ondangwa, Tsumeb, Otijawongo, Okahandja, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Windhoek, Rehoboth, Mariental Keetmanshoop, and Grunau.

🚎 Popular Bus Routes in Namibia for Tourists

• Windhoek to Keetmanshoop (for Quiver Tree Forest & Kolmanskop)
• Windhoek to Grunau (for Fish River Canyon)
• Windhoek to Tsumeb (for Etosha National Park)
• Windhoek to Swakopmund (for Spitzkoppe National Park)
• Windhoek to Walvis Bay (for Sandwich Harbor)
• Swakopmund to Walvis Bay
• Swakopmund to Windhoek
• Walvis Bay to Swakopmund
• Walvis Bay to Windhoek

🚐 Tours Around Namibia

The easiest way to get around Namibia (especially if you are short on time) other than driving through Namibia, is to go with a tour group on a multi-day trip.

There are quite a few companies that offer 7-12 day itineraries exploring the top attractions of Namibia.

Doing these means you don't need to look for accommodation or worry about transportation. This is the priciest option, but also the most comfortable and safest, especially if you are traveling by yourself.

Here are example of some multi-day tours you can find throughout Namibia:

Namibia Transportation Guide: FAQ Answered

Now you know almost everything you need to know for how to get around Namibia, including driving through Namibia, and the different public transportation and guide options. But here are a few other frequently asked questions that we're going to answer for you.

🚌 How Do People Travel in Namibia?

People in Namibia primarily travel by car, especially for long distances. Self-driving is very popular, as it gives travelers the freedom to explore remote areas at their own pace. 

Public transportation options like buses and taxis are available, but they’re not as extensive as in some other countries. Many tourists also opt for guided tours or flights between major cities and tourist destinations.

💸 How Much is Transport from Namibia to South Africa?

The cost of transport from Namibia to South Africa depends on the mode of transport. Flights are the most common option, with one-way fares starting from around NAD 1,500 to NAD 3,000 (approximately $90 to $180 USD), depending on the airline and time of booking.

If you're considering traveling by bus, the price for a one-way trip from Windhoek to Johannesburg can range from NAD 1,200 to NAD 2,000 (about $70 to $120 USD).

✈️ How Much is a Taxi from Windhoek Airport to the City?

A taxi from Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International Airport to the city center typically costs around NAD 300 to NAD 350 (approximately $20 to $25 USD), depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Aways remember to agree on the fare before starting your ride though.

🚘 What is the Best Way to Explore Namibia?

The best way to explore Namibia is by self-driving, especially if you want to visit some of the incredible hidden gems in Namibia. Renting a 4x4 vehicle allows you to navigate Namibia's tough terrain, including deserts and national parks, at your own pace. 

Guided tours are also available for those who prefer a more structured experience, as there are a lot of options and they are very comfortable. You can also take domestic flights to cover long distances quickly.

🚅 Is There a Train From Cape Town to Namibia?

There is no direct passenger train service from Cape Town to Namibia. However, you can take a series of trains that connect in order to get from Cape Town to Namibia, as well as buses that connect the two.

🚆 How Much is the Desert Express Ticket in Namibia?

The Desert Express is a luxury train experience, and ticket prices vary depending on the class and duration of the trip. For a round-trip from Windhoek to Swakopmund, tickets range from NAD 1,900 to NAD 4,000 (approximately $110 to $230 USD) per person for standard class, while more exclusive options (such as a private suite) can cost much more.

Namibia Transportation Guide: Conclusion

Namibia is a vast country, and has so much to see and do! While it is not as easy to get around as countries in Europe for example, there are certainly options to fit every budget.

Renting a car and driving through Namibia is the most fun option, and really allows you to have flexibility in your schedule - just make sure to have a 4x4!

If you aren't comfortable with driving, we'd recommend joining a group tour. This was you can safely and comfortably explore the highlights of the country. Whatever you decide to do though, Namibia is a fantastic country to explore, and has a ton of amazing things to see and do!

So are you ready to experience all of the incredible places to visit in Namibia? We hope our Namibia transportation guide has helped you with getting around the country, whether you are driving through Namibia, taking public transportation, or going on a group trip.

Want to learn more about traveling through Namibia? We have quite a few other Namibia travel guides, as well as some others coming up! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can get all of our weekly updates, as well as exclusive content we share with just our email list.

Ready to start planning the most epic trip around Namibia? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers custom travel planning services, finding you the best flights, and creating personalized itineraries for you and your group. Want to learn more? Send us an email to set up your free consultation!

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