It is easy to travel around Namibia by car, and a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adequate for most journeys. However, long distances, poor mobile phone coverage outside of larger towns, and infrequent petrol stations that only take cash mean that planning ahead is necessary.
Namibians drive on the left, and all signposts are written in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times, and it is prohibited to use a mobile phone whilst driving.
The general speed limit is a comfortable 120km/h on the tar roads outside of towns and 100km/h on gravel roads. In built up areas the speed limit is normally 60km/h.
Driving in Towns
When driving in Windhoek and other towns, you will find that the other drivers are more courteous in Namibia compared to most towns and cities in South Africa.
It is advisable to carry your driving licence with you at all times, as this must be produced on request at the roadblocks which lead in and out of Windhoek. You may also be required to show any paperwork if you have brought your hire car over from neighbouring South Africa.
It may feel daunting when you are flagged down by the police at one of these roadblocks, but it is just a routine enquiry and nothing to worry about.
'Rules of the Road'
With regards to driving rules, it is very similar to driving in South Africa.
Traffic lights are referred to as 'robots', and the 4 way stop is certainly a traffic control to master quickly if you want to avoid having a collision at a stop junction.
In simple terms, the first car that arrives at the 4 way stop junction has the right of way, whether they are going straight on, or turning left or right. The second person to arrive has the next right of way, then the third, and so on.
If you are not familiar with this method, then you will have to pay particular attention when approaching stop signs, or you may find yourself cutting someone up if your attention lapses briefly!
Border Crossings into South Africa
For information on border crossings, click here.
Safety Precautions
When driving anywhere in Namibia, try to apply the following safety precautions:
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Always drive with your doors locked and windows wound up, especially when stopped at traffic lights.
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Don't ever stop to pick up hitchhikers, however innocent, lost or appealing they look. If you are worried about someone's plight, stop at the next town and report it to someone there.
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Do not leave anything valuable on show in your car when you leave it unattended, and ALWAYS lock your car when you leave it, even if you are only going to be gone for a few minutes.
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Try to always park in a busy, well-lit area.
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Don't get out of your car if you are knocked or hit from behind in suspicious circumstances.
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Take advice from your hosts where you are staying, and ask if there are any areas that tourists should avoid driving through.
