Namibia

Why Namibia on an organized tour?

Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world: two million inhabitants spread over an area five times the size of France. This immensity is both its logistical challenge and its absolute magic. Here, the track roads cross red stone deserts for hours without crossing a single car.

The organized tour (self-drive 4x4 or accompanied safari) is the natural format of this country: the distances between stages are considerable, bush lodges are better organized in advance, and a local guide turns an anonymous trail into a landscape reading. Namibia rewards travelers who take the time to slow down.

When to go to Namibia?

Namibia operates on a calendar that is the opposite of Europe. The dry season (May to October) is the ideal period: crystal clear skies, mild temperatures during the day (22 to 28°C), cool or even cold nights in the desert (5 to 10°C). In the rainy season (November to April), the track roads in the north become impassable and wildlife disperses into the bush.

July-August is the peak tourist month: book the lodges 6 months in advance. May, June and September offer the best compromise between quality of observation and availability.

Budget: how much does a tour in Namibia cost?

Namibia is a high-end destination by African standards. Medium-quality bush lodges charge between EUR 120 and EUR 250 per night per person, including meals. Organised tours from France start at around EUR 2,600 per person (excluding flights) for 12 to 14 days.

The Paris-Windhoek flight with a stopover costs between 700 EUR (low season) and 1,400 EUR (July-August). There are no direct flights. The total bill for a two-week tour is usually between 4,000 and 7,000 EUR per person depending on the level of comfort of the accommodation.

The essential steps

Namibia is a long journey. The classic tours follow a north-south axis or loop from Windhoek, through the Namib, the Atlantic coast, Damaraland and Etosha. Each stage has its own character, from the monumental dunes of Sossusvlei to the white savannah of Etosha.

Photo gallery

Typical itineraries

These routes are educational examples to give you an idea of what is possible. The actual distances between the stages (3 to 6 hours of track per day) are to be taken into account in the planning. Use the questionnaire to find the circuit that suits your pace.

Practical advice

Formalities and visa

Since April 1, 2025, French nationals must obtain a visa to enter Namibia. The e-visa costs around 82 EUR (1,600 NAD) and can be obtained online on the official Namibian portal (eservices.mhaiss.gov.na) or on arrival at Windhoek airport. Allow 3 to 5 days for the online version. Passport valid for a minimum of 6 months with 3 blank pages.

No vaccinations are required at the entrance. Hepatitis A, DTP and typhoid vaccines are recommended. If your tour includes the north (Kavango, Caprivi), consult a doctor for antimalarial treatment.

Getting around

Namibia can be explored by 4x4 or motorhome. The national roads (B-roads) are paved but not very busy. The secondary roads (C-roads) and tracks (D-roads) are made of compacted gravel, accessible by high-perched vehicle but more comfortable by 4x4. Driving at night is strongly discouraged: animals cross the roads without warning. Accompanied tours include transport.

Currency and payment

The Namibian dollar (NAD) is at fixed parity with the South African rand, which is also accepted everywhere. 1 EUR = approximately 18.9 NAD in August 2026. Bank cards work in lodges and major cities. Take cash (South African or Namibian notes) for markets and small stops. ATMs are rare outside the main cities.

Culture and behaviours

Namibia is a stable democracy, very welcoming to visitors. English is the official language and spoken by all tourism stakeholders. Namibians are known for their measured hospitality: respect personal spaces, always ask before photographing people. In San (Bushman) communities, entrance and guide fees are usual and directly support the locals.

Frequently asked questions