Are you planning a road trip across Namibia? Here’s everything you need to know to make it extra special.

Is Namibia the coolest road trip location ever? Maybe. And if it’s not quite number one, it’s certainly towards the top.

Whether it wins first place or not, you can be sure it will be a road trip unlike any other.

Namibia is a peculiar place. Its primary attractions are as diverse as its few residents, and its landscapes are as striking and attractive.

In the oddest manner, every area you visit will feel like a completely new nation, yet this is an appealing feature that will only make you fall more in love. For the time being, I’ll leave it at that.

Namibia has a lot to offer, but it’s spread out throughout the country’s huge geography. The best – and, in many cases, the only – method to travel is by car.

So saddle up and read on for all you need to know about planning a fantastic Namibia road trip.

Why take a road trip to Namibia?

Namibia is a large, open nation with miles upon miles of desert and open plains. It is one of the world’s least heavily inhabited countries. It is possible to go for hours without seeing another automobile or any indication of life.

Driving in Namibia is a little like being on a vehicle treadmill, with nothing but a long straight road in front of you for the most part.

Despite the monotony of the terrain, driving in Namibia is about the farthest thing from a dull gym session.

You’ll undoubtedly still sweat because the weather in Namibia may be brutally harsh in the middle of the day.

You will, however, enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip (for both the right and wrong reasons).

How Long Do You Need For A Road Trip

You’ll need to do a loop of Namibia to visit the nicest parts of the nation. Long trips between palm-sized settlements are required, with few cars passing along the route.

Take a look at the map and consider where you actually want to go before you do anything else.

You’ll need at least 5-7 days to get a sense of Namibia. You’ll need around 7-10 days to see all of the major sights. Allow two weeks or more to tour Namibia if you want to see everything there is to see and truly get to know the country.

Namibia is the type of environment where you should allow for some spontaneity.

There’s a strong chance you’ll want to extend your stay in at least one of the areas you visit, whether it’s to climb a few more dunes, look for an animal you haven’t seen yet, or retake your greatest photo.

Keep this in mind when organising your vacation to Namibia, and don’t feel obligated to stick to a specific itinerary.

If you’re short on time, don’t underestimate the distances between locations.

Although it may not appear to be far on the map – especially when there is nothing in between — travelling between towns and rest breaks can take hours.

It won’t be long before you realise how massive Namibia is!

Renting a car

Despite what the internet claims, there is no compelling reason to hire a 4×4 in Namibia.

Unless you know you’ll be driving on certain routes, a normal two-wheel drive vehicle will suffice for your road trip.

One item you’ll definitely need is a spare tyre; it’s nearly impossible to get through Namibia without getting a flat.

If you have a few additional days, renting a car from outside Namibia may be less expensive.

If you’re renting from someone outside the nation, make sure you get a certificate stating that you have authorization to cross the border.

What To Bring With?

Don’t forget to pay attention to this section! In Namibia, being prepared is key, and that includes what you pack in your automobile.

Make sure you have a spare tyre, jack, and any other tools you’ll need to fix a flat before turning the key in the ignition. It’s extremely likely that you’ll need them at least once during your journey.

Prepare for the long, straight roads ahead by stocking up on food and drink (particularly the water!). It’s unlike anything else on the planet, and it’s incredibly relaxing, but it’s a lot less fun when you’re hungry or thirsty.

Here are the places you shouldn’t miss

Despite the absence of life and civilisation in the bulk of the nation, Namibia offers a diverse range of sights.

It’s one of the world’s most diverse nations, with a wide range of scenery, sights, and memories just waiting to be formed.

The routes and places to stay will limit you in some ways, but it won’t be difficult to prioritise the things that most interest you.

The most popular tourist sites in Namibia may be found in the north of the nation. Most visitors will want to concentrate on these, but if you have time, there are some genuinely unusual spots in the south.

Etosha National Park

Etosha is Namibia’s greatest site to see anything from elephants to antelopes, and it’s home to three of the country’s big five.

Sossusvlei 

Many people’s Namibia trips are highlighted by the iconic red dunes.

Because Sossusvlei becomes quite hot throughout the day, you’ll want to do most of your touring in the morning or late afternoon.

Make sure you leave enough time to see everything, especially Dune 45 and Deadvlei.

Swakopmund 

This seaside city seems like it belongs in Germany.

Skydiving, quad biking, and other daring activities are also available.

Kolmanskop

Kolmanskop, a historic diamond town, is now merely a shadow of its former self.

Sand dunes are encroaching on its skeleton structures, creating an unnerving experience and wonderful travel images.

— Bronwyn Reynolds, Fizzin