Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THEFT
Theft isn't rife in Namibia, but Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Tsumeb and Groot-
fontein have problems with petty theft and muggings, so it's sensible to conceal your valu-
ables, not leave anything in your car, and avoid walking alone at night. It's also prudent -
and sensitive - to avoid walking around cities and towns bedecked in expensive jewellery,
watches and cameras. Most hotels provide a safe or secure place for valuables, although
you should be cautious of the security at some budget places.
Never leave a safari-packed vehicle anywhere in Windhoek or Swakopmund, other than
in a guarded car park or private parking lot.
Theft from campsites can also be a problem, particularly near urban areas. Locking up
your tent may help, but anything left unattended is still at risk.
VEGETATION
An unusual natural hazard is the euphorbia plant. Its dried branches should never be used
in fires as they release a deadly toxin when burnt. It can be fatal to inhale the smoke or eat
food cooked on a fire containing it. If you're in doubt about any wood you've collected,
leave it out of the fire. Caretakers at campsites do a good job of removing these plants
from around pitches and fire pits, so you needn't worry excessively. As a precaution, try
to only use bundles of wood that you've purchased in a store to start fires. If you're bush
camping, best to familiarise yourself with the plant's appearance. There are several mem-
bers of the family, and you can check out their pictures either online or at the tourist in-
formation centres in Windhoek.
Shopping
Namibia's range of inexpensive souvenirs includes all sorts of things, from kitsch African
curios and batik paintings to superb Owambo basketry and Kavango woodcarvings. Most
of the items sold along Post Street Mall in Windhoek are cheap curios imported from
Zimbabwe. Along the highways around the country, roadside stalls sometimes appear,
selling locally produced items, from baskets and simple pottery jars to the appealing
woven mats and wooden aeroplanes that are a Kavango speciality. In Rundu, and other
areas of the northeast, you'll find distinctive San material arts - bows and arrows, ostrich-
egg beads and leather pouches. An excellent place to browse a whole range of craft work
is the Namibia Crafts Centre in Windhoek.
The pastel colours of the Namib provide inspiration for a number of local artists, and
lots of galleries in Windhoek and Swakopmund feature local paintings and sculpture.
Also, some lovely items are produced in conjunction with the karakul wool industry, such
