The major roads are tarred, well signposted, and relatively well maintained, so it is possible to cover long distances along them in relative comfort.  

The general speed limit on open tarred roads is 120 km/h, and 60 km/h when entering towns or built up areas. 

However, the majority of roads in Namibia are gravel, and more often than not during your driving holiday you will find yourself on one for a long time. 

The gravel roads range from well maintained straight roads that can safely be travelled at 70 - 80 km/h (the official speed of 100 km/h on gravel roads is not advisable), to bumpy tracks that are difficult to distinguish from the rock-strewn landscape. 

2WD or 4WD?

Although many visitors to Namibia choose to rent a 4WD vehicle, they find that they rarely need to engage 4WD and a regular 2WD saloon car is perfectly fine for the vast majority of journeys - even on gravel roads.

Should you decide to take a 2WD car caution should be taken, especially when driving round tight bends, as the gravel can cause the car to slide.  Potholes should be avoided where possible, unless you want to change a tyre, or hand your car back with a bent tyre rim.

A high-clearance 2WD is a good idea, especially in the rainy season when many gravel roads become flooded or crossed by seasonal rivers, and many people still prefer the peace of mind (and adventure!) of a 4WD.

Roadworks

On the major tarred roads, you will occasionally come up against a set of roadworks.  You will be warned of the impending works by a man or woman standing at the side of the road, waving a red flag at you.  Don't be alarmed  - this is just their way of saying 'Beware - Roadworks Ahead - Slow Down'.