Home » Namibia Travel News » Namibia boosts tourism with new visa-free travel policy to 53 countries including Brazil, UK and Schengen countries
Sunday, July 21, 2024
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Namibia was formerly known as Southwest Africa. Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia is known for the Namib Desert, which stretches along the Atlantic coast. The country boasts a diverse wildlife population, including a large cheetah population, and is world-famous for the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the highest in the world, and Etosha National Park, one of the world’s leading nature reserves. The majority of international tourists to Namibia come from Germany.
Additionally, tourists from South Africa, the United Kingdom and other European countries also make up a significant portion of visitors to Namibia. Last year, Namibia welcomed 863,872 international visitors, up significantly from 461,027 in 2022.
Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Pohamba Sipheta announced that Namibia welcomed 863,872 international visitors last year, a significant increase from 461,027 in 2022. This significant increase brings the country closer to its pre-pandemic target of 1.8 million visitors per year.
The following 53 countries can visit Namibia without a visa:
Angola Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Belarus Belgium Botswana Brazil Canada Cuba Denmark Finland France Germany Iceland Indonesia Ireland Italy Jamaica Japan Kazakhstan Kenya Kyrgyzstan Lesotho Liechtenstein Luxembourg Malawi Malaysia Mauritius Moldova Mozambique Netherlands New Zealand Norway Portugal Russia Seychelles Singapore South Africa Spain Eswatini Sweden Switzerland Tajikistan Tanzania Turkmenistan Ukraine United Kingdom United States Uzbekistan Zambia Zimbabwe
Airports in Namibia:
Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), located near Namibia’s capital city Windhoek, is the main international gateway to the country. In 2023, the airport handled approximately 850,000 passengers, reflecting a significant recovery from the pandemic period. The airport accounts for 75.7% of Namibia’s air traffic, with passenger arrivals showing a notable increase year-on-year, reaching 36,173 in March 2024 alone. Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB), located in the coastal town of Walvis Bay, serves both domestic flights and limited international flights. In March 2024, the airport’s passenger numbers increased significantly from 3,319 in March 2023 to 3,844, highlighting the airport’s growing importance in Namibia’s aviation network. Located in the town of Ondangwa, Andimba-Toivo-ya-Toivo Airport plays a key role in Namibia’s domestic aviation network. The airport facilitates a variety of flights, connecting mainly domestic passengers and contributing to regional accessibility and economic development. Located in the town of Oranjemund, Oranjemund Airport is a key facility in Namibia’s domestic aviation network. In recent years, the airport’s passenger numbers have remained stable, reflecting the airport’s importance in connecting this southern region with the rest of the country. The notable passenger numbers attest to the airport’s role in facilitating travel and supporting regional development. Luderitz Airport (LUD) – Serving the coastal town of Luderitz, it handles mainly domestic flights. Rundu Airport (NDU) – Located in the northeastern part of Namibia, it handles domestic flights.
Namibian Airlines:
FlyNamibia has seen steady growth in passenger numbers, up 12% in 2023, significantly improving domestic connectivity. This growth highlights the important role FlyNamibia plays in Namibia’s aviation sector, supporting both domestic and regional travel. Airlink, a prominent regional airline, has seen strong growth in passenger numbers, up 15% year-on-year in 2023. This traffic surge highlights Airlink’s expanding role connecting destinations across Southern Africa. Ethiopian Airlines has seen strong growth in passenger numbers, up 20% in 2023, reinforcing its position as Africa’s leading airline. This growth highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ pivotal role in increasing connectivity across the continent and supporting international travel. TAAG Angola Airlines reports a notable increase in passenger numbers, up 15% in 2023, strengthening its network across Africa and beyond. This growth highlights TAAG’s expanding role in regional and international aviation, supporting connectivity and economic development. CemAir – This South African airline operates flights to Windhoek, Namibia, expanding connectivity between Namibia and South Africa.
The best hotels to stay in Namibia:
Hilton Windhoek
Hilton Windhoek offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic city views, a rooftop pool and a variety of dining options, perfect for business and leisure travelers. Located in the heart of Windhoek, it offers easy access to the city’s top attractions and business centres.
Gmundnaa Lodge Namibia
Known for its elegant tented suites and attentive service, Gmundnaa Lodge Namibia is a relaxing hideaway with stunning views and spa facilities, offering a tranquil setting and a lodge close to nature.
Our Habitas Namibia
Habitus Namibia combines luxury, sustainability and immersive nature experiences in an eco-friendly lodge. Located on a private reserve, the lodge offers activities such as wildlife safaris, wellness programs and cultural tours.
Otsimbondona Kalahari
Otjimbondona Kalahari offers luxury villas set in the tranquil Kalahari landscape, offering the perfect getaway with luxurious amenities and attentive service, as well as activities such as game drives, guided walks and stargazing.
Hoanib Valley Camp
Hoanib Valley Camp is an eco-friendly campsite in the remote northwestern region of Namibia, known for its beautiful desert landscapes and abundant wildlife. The campsite offers a unique safari experience with luxury tents and guided tours to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Kashivibe Vol.14
Kasi Vibe Vol.14 will take place at Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek, Namibia from Friday, October 4 to Sunday, October 6. This vibrant event will feature local artists and vendors showcasing Namibian culture and entertainment.
Fractal Festival Namibia 2025
Fractal Festival Namibia 2025 will take place at the Spitzkoppe Tented Camp and Campground in the Spitzkoppe River Valley from February 28 to March 2. Participants will enjoy a weekend of music, art and community in the stunning natural surroundings of Spitzkoppe, Namibia.
Namibian Festivals:
Deep Dive Seafood & Wine Festival Vol. 2
Deep Dive Seafood & Wine Festival Vol. 2 will be held at the Handle Bar at Sean McBride’s Koen Faustboll Club in Windhoek, Namibia on Saturday, September 7th from 11am to 11.59am. The event will offer a unique culinary experience, serving up a fantastic pairing of fresh seafood and fine wines.
Discover the best nightlife spots in Namibia: Joe’s Beerhouse, Warehouse Theatre, Sky Bar, Infinity Lounge:
Joe’s Beerhouse – Located in Windhoek, this is one of the most famous spots, known for its large selection of Namibian and German beers, lively atmosphere and hearty meals.
Warehouse Theatre – Also in Windhoek, this venue hosts a variety of events including plays, stand-up comedy, concerts and karaoke nights, making it a versatile artistic hangout spot.
Sky Bar – Located on the top floor of Windhoek’s Hilton Hotel, Sky Bar offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for evening drinks and watching the sunset.
Infinity Lounge – Located in Swakopmund, this lounge is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is popular with locals and tourists looking to enjoy some coastal nightlife.
Namibia offers a rich and diverse experience where natural beauty blends with vibrant nightlife. From the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei and the wildlife of Etosha National Park to the vibrant nightlife of Windhoek and Swakopmund, there is something for everyone. Iconic venues such as Joe’s Beerhouse and Sky Bar in Windhoek and Infinity Lounge in Swakopmund allow visitors to enjoy the best of Namibian culture and hospitality, day or night.
Places of interest in Namibia:
Sossusvlei and Deadvlei
Located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is famous for its towering red sand dunes. Deadvlei within Sossusvlei is a pure white clay plain dotted with dead ancient camel thorn trees.
Etosha National Park
One of Africa’s leading wildlife reserves, Etosha National Park is known for its abundance of wildlife, including elephants, lions and rhinos. The Okaukuejo waterhole is particularly famous for being a frequent spot for animals.
Fish River Canyon
The second largest canyon in the world, Fish River Canyon offers spectacular views and hiking trails, making it a must-see for lovers of dramatic landscapes and geological wonders.
Ghost town of Kolmanskop
Once a thriving diamond mining town, Kolmanskop is now a fascinating ghost town partially covered by the desert and offers a unique glimpse into Namibia’s colonial history.
Spitzkoppe
Known as the “Matterhorn of Namibia,” Spitzkoppe is a group of granite mountains popular for hiking, rock climbing and viewing ancient petroglyphs. This region offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Namibia.
Cape Cross Seal Sanctuary
Home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Cape fur seals, this Skeleton Coast sanctuary is a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Namibia offers a rich and diverse experience where natural beauty blends with vibrant nightlife. From the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei and the wildlife of Etosha National Park to the vibrant nightlife of Windhoek and Swakopmund, there is something for everyone. Iconic venues such as Joe’s Beerhouse and Sky Bar in Windhoek and Infinity Lounge in Swakopmund allow visitors to enjoy the best of Namibian culture and hospitality, day or night.
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