Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
D-numbered roads, although a bit rougher, are mostly (but not always) passable to 2WD
vehicles. In the Kaokoveld, however, most D-numbered roads can only be negotiated with
a 4WD.
Nearly all the main car-hire agencies have offices at Hosea Kutako Airport. Ideally,
you'll want to hire a car for the duration of your holiday, but if cost is an issue, you might
consider a shorter hire from either Windhoek or Swakopmund. If you can muster a group
of four, hiring a car will undoubtedly work out cheaper than an organised tour.
AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATIONS
The
Automobile Association of Namibia
(AAN; 061-224201;
www.aanamibia.com
)
is part of the international AA. It provides highway information and you can also acquire
maps from them if you produce your membership card from your home country.
DRIVING LICENCE
Foreigners can drive in Namibia on their home driving licence for up to 90 days, and most
(if not all) car-hire companies will accept foreign driving licences for car hire. If your
home licence isn't written in English then you'd be better off getting yourself an Interna-
tional Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive in Namibia.
FUEL & SPARE PARTS
The network of petrol stations in Namibia is good, and most small towns have a station.
Mostly diesel, unleaded and super (leaded) are available, and prices vary according to the
remoteness of the petrol station. Although the odd petrol station is open 24 hours, most
are open 7am to 7pm.
All stations are fully serviced (there is no self-service), and a small tip of a couple of
Namibian dollars is appropriate, especially if the attendant has washed your windscreen.
As a general road safety rule, you should never pass a service station without filling up,
and it is advisable to carry an additional 100 litres of fuel (either in long-range tanks or
jerry cans) if you're planning on driving in more remote areas. Petrol stations do run out
of petrol in Namibia, so you can't always drain the tank and expect a fill-up at the next
station.
Spare parts are readily available in most major towns, but not elsewhere. If you are
planning on some 4WD touring, it is advisable to carry the following: two spare tyres,
jump leads, fan belt, tow rope and cable, a few litres of oil, wheel spanner and a complete
tool kit. A sturdy roll of duct tape will also do in a pinch.
If you're renting a hire car make sure you check you have a working jack (and know
how to use it!) and a spare tyre. As an extra precaution, double-check that your spare tyre
