The international dialling code for Namibia is +264, followed by the regional code and then the number. When making calls to or from Namibia, keep in mind that Namibian standard time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
The fixed line network is reliable, although public phones and hotel phones are quite expensive.
A better option for the traveller is the mobile phone system, which is generally reliable around towns and along parts of major tarred highways. Namibia is a vast, sparsely populated country, however, and there are places which are not currently covered by the mobile networks - although these same places may not have fixed line phones either!
Mobile Phones
Overseas visitors can use their own mobile phone with 'international roaming' enabled (remember to activate this, however, before leaving home), but this can be extremely expensive. A much cheaper (and easier) option is to switch to using the local provider (MTC) during your stay in the country.
Switching to a Local Provider
Because mobile phones in Namibia work on the same SIM card system as the majority of other mobile phones, all you need to do to connect is to buy a pay-as-you-go MTC SIM card, and put it in your phone instead of your usual SIM card.
It really is that simple ...
There is no paperwork to fill out, and no contract to sign - it really is as simple as that. You are immediately connected to the local network, which gives you normal cheap-rate local calls - ideal if you need to call up to check directions to your guest house, or to book a taxi home after a night out. Top-ups are available from most retail outlets should you need them.
It is worth noting that in Namibia, a mobile phone is referred to as a 'cell' or 'cell phone'.
Internet and Email Access
Internet access is becoming increasingly easy to find, and there are several good internet cafes in Windhoek, Swakopmund and other towns.
Access is often quite expensive, especially if you use a connection in a hotel, and connection speeds can be frustratingly slow in some places.
