Renting A Car In Namibia: Everything You Need To Know

Namibia is a country full of color and wild, vast landscapes. It holds a rugged desert coastline, crispy white clay pans, countless animals and deep red sand dunes. In other words, there’s a lot to explore. Exploring Namibia can easily be done by booking an organized trip, but when you want to make your own stops and create your own route, renting a car in Namibia gives you the freedom to do so. Here’s all you need to know about renting a car in Namibia

How to rent a car in Namibia

If you’re planning on visiting Namibia, renting a car will be the most convenient and flexible way to get around. The country is large (my home country the Netherlands would fit 20 times in Namibia) and very diverse. Having a rental car to yourself gives you the freedom to see this incredible country at your own pace. From the deep red sand dunes of the SossusVlei to seeing the big 5 in Etosha Nationa Park, a road trip through Namibia will be an amazing experience. While it may seem intimidating at first, driving through Namibia by yourself is much easier than it looks. In this guide, you’ll find exactly how to rent and drive a car in Namibia. Read all about traveling to Namibia here

What Do You Need To Rent A Car In Namibia

The driving licence requirements in Namibia state that you must have a full driving licence that is valid in your country of residence. An international driver’s licence is required if your driving licence is not in English. You can rent a car in Namibia when you are 23 years or older and have your licence for at least 1 year (this may differ between rental companies). Some rental companies require an age of 25 and older and will charge those between 21 and 25 an additional insurance fee.

Rental Car Insurance In Namibia

In Namibia and many other African countries, you are not obliged to insure your rental vehicle. This is different to the European standards where car insurance is required by European policies. I strongly advise you to inform yourself well and in advance about the different insurance policies and options. I recommend to rent a car in Namibia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and all insurance included. This way you’ll be on your way to a worry-free Namibian adventure. Book your rental car here.

Is It Easy To Drive With A Car In Namibia?

Many of Namibia’s rural roads are gravel roads, that come with an occasional pothole in them. The roads are generally in great condition, and getting used to driving on gravel usually comes easy. It’s a little more difficult to control a car on gravel than on pavement. That’s why you should take your time while driving through Namibia and make sure to reduce your speed on gravel roads, especially in curves or turns.

Fueling Up In Namibia

Most travelers to Namibia go on an extensive road trip, and some even cross the border to South Africa or Botswana. Distances between places can be huge, and often gasoline is only available at a few service stations along a route. Make sure you have cash on you, as some gas stations don’t take credit cards. When you get to the pump, there will be an attendant to fill up the car for you. You simply tell them how much you want to spend on fuel and what type of fuel you need. Not sure which type of fuel your car needs? You can check this with your rental company.

Road Conditions In Namibia

Roads in Namibia are generally well maintained. However, few have lanes for broken down vehicles. Most major roads are paved and undivided with one lane in each direction. Rural roads are mostly gravel roads, but they are usually in great condition. In Namibia, driving is done on the left side of the road, so it might take some time getting used to it if you usually drive on the right side of the road.

Is Driving in Namibia Safe?

Renting a car and driving in Namibia is safe. Most roads are well-maintained and if you follow the traffic rules and the tips mentioned in this article, you’ll be well on your way. Robberies have occurred at roadside rest stops in the past, so taking a break can best be done at gasoline stations or inside towns.

The Best Tips For Renting And Driving A Car In Namibia

1. Book with a reliable rental company

In Namibia there are a lot of reliable rental companies, but there is the occasional rotten apple among them. Check beforehand with friends and family that traveled to Namibia and read reviews of several rental companies before you make a decision. When you find a company you like make sure to check which conditions apply on your contract. Also make sure there’s a spare tire included, as you might need one during your road trip.

2. Inspect Your Vehicle

When you pick up the car, inspect the car thoroughly before setting off. Walk around your rental car and photograph or film all existing damages on the car. Many rental cars in Namibia are not in mint condition and have at least a couple of scratches on them. To make sure that you don’t get charged for damages when returning your rental car, you can use the images or video as proof. You can do the same with the inside of the rental car. Also make sure to check whether you’ve got a full tank of fuel before you leave.

3. Bring Sufficient Supplies

Because of the distances between places it’s important to bring a little survival package. Bring lots of water, at least five liters per person, just in case you get into an accident and have to wait for help. Apart from water, it’s also advised to bring shade. A cap, hat or umbrella, something to cover your shoulders with and a bottle of sunscreen to protect you from the mid-day sun will come in handy. Don’t forget about snacks! Snacks are indispensable road trip necessities and can be hard to find in Namibia outside cities.

4. Don’t drive at night in Namibia

Driving at night in Namibia is not recommended, regardless of how experienced a driver you are. Outside of the cities there are no street lights and there can be potholes in the road. There are also different kinds of obstacles that might appear on the road at night, such as wandering wildlife and pedestrians. If you can, avoid driving your rental car at night in Namibia. Wildlife wandering on roads is a special driving hazard in Namibia, especially at night. The salty roads near the coast can also be dangerous, especially when they have been made slick by morning or evening mist.

5. Download A Map Of The Area Beforehand

Cell reception in Namibia is mostly non-existent outside of the bigger cities. Download a map beforehand and bookmark the spots you want to go to. Extra tip: Make sure to also bookmark the gas stations in the area, so you don’t miss any of them while driving through Namibia.

Do I Need A 4WD Car In Namibia?

You do not need a 4×4 car to drive in Namibia. Most of the main roads are well-maintained and do not require a 4WD. However, if you’re planning to go off-road, like in Etosha or other national parks, it is recommended. Not only does a 4×4 rental car have more space, they also tend to have more ground clearance. This will give you a better view over the tall grass inside the national parks and also give you a better chance at spotting animals.

How Much Does A Rental Car In Namibia Cost?

Rental cars in Namibia are usually quite affordable, especially if you’re traveling with someone else or a group and split the price. The price will depend on the company you decide to rent from and the model of the car. You can expect a 4WD car to cost between €80 and €120 a day. If you decide to rent a car with a rooftop tent, which is a great option in Namibia, be prepared to pay a bit more, between €120 and €150 a day. A regular or 2WD car will set you back between €30 and €50 a day, so this is by far the most affordable option, but also gives you the least flexibility.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Namibia?

The easiest way to rent a car in Namibia is by booking it beforehand. You can do this online or through an agency. Because almost all travelers to Namibia go around by rental car, they can quickly sell out, especially during busier times. That’s why arranging a rental car ahead of time is recommended. This way you can make sure that there’s a rental car that will suit your needs waiting for you when you arrive. I recommend to rent a car in Namibia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and all insurance included. This way you’ll be on your way to a worry-free Namibian adventure. Book your rental car here.

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