Sub Saharan Africa

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. 

For more information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Violent street crimes (muggings and robberies) targeting foreign tourists have increased significantly in 2009, particularly in Windhoek.  Attacks can take place even in busy city centre locations in broad daylight.   

Theft from vehicles, particularly at service stations,  is common. Keep your vehicle locked and valuable possessions out of sight.

Residents of Namibia have reported incidents of interception of mail and theft of mail contents by Post Office workers in Namibia.  Any valuable parcels or documents (e.g. bank and credit cards) should be sent by registered mail at least and preferably by a reputable commercial courier company.

Beware of pickpockets in town centres.  Do not use the taxis generally available for hire, particularly in Windhoek, as these vehicles have been involved in attacks on foreign tourists.  Instead, ask your hotel, guest house or tour operator to recommend a reputable taxi company.  Do not enter townships at night unless accompanied by someone with local knowledge.

An armed robbery on a bar in Ausspannplatz on Windhoek's main street, Independence Avenue, was foiled by police on 2 April 2009.  Two robbers were shot dead and two were wounded as a result.  No bystanders were hurt.

Take precautions to safeguard valuables and cash, and deposit them in hotel safes, where practical.  Keep large amounts of money, expensive jewellery, cameras and cell phones out of sight.  Do not change large sums of money in busy public areas. Keep separate copies of important documents, including passports.

Remain with your group when visiting parks and game reserves.

Since October 2008, Namibian authorities and visiting foreign tourists have reported an outbreak of credit card skimming taking place at some hotels and lodges around the country. Okakuejo Lodge in Etosha National Park has been identified as a particular trouble spot for this. Unscrupulous employees there and at some other establishments have been accused of copying card details onto hand-held readers and passing the details on to criminal gangs.  Visiting foreign tourists have been targeted.  When paying by credit card, keep the card in full view at all times and always check your statement carefully to ensure you do not become a victim of fraud.

For more information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

 

Namibia Country Profile

Five-yearly Presidential and National Assembly elections will take place across Namibia on 27 and 28 November 2009.  The campaign period will end on 26 November.  There have been reports of small scale violence at political rallies leading up to the elections.  During the campaign and election period, you should avoid political rallies, be alert and take precautions. The elections are expected to be largely peaceful.

Local Travel

Road Travel

It is easy to lapse into a false sense of security on Namibian roads, because most are well maintained and there is little traffic.  But there have been a number of fatal accidents on gravel/dirt roads, especially on bends in the road. It is dangerous to exceed the speed limit of 80km.

During the rainy season (normally January to April) many roads can become impassable.  The rainy season of 2009 has been particularly destructive and many roads throughout the country have been badly damaged.  It is advisable to check with your destination on the local road conditions before setting off.

You should avoid driving at night outside the towns as wildlife and stray livestock can pose a serious hazard.  Tyre punctures are common on the gravel roads; if possible, carry two spare tyres. It may also be necessary to adjust tyre pressures to suit differing road conditions.  Keep your petrol tank topped up, as there are long distances between petrol stations.

 

For further information see Driving Abroad.

 
Rail Travel

The Desert Express between Windhoek and Swakopmund is a popular tourist route.  Although there have been no accidents involving this train, you should be aware there have been two incidents on this line since 2007. In August 2007 a freight train derailed (one fatality), and in May 2008 a freight train collided with a stationary passenger train (no fatalities).

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see Airline Security.