Namibia

Översikt

Namibia is considered a safe and stable country in southwest Africa, with a low threat of civil unrest or terrorism. The most significant threat to visitors comes from a rising crime rate. Violent and petty crimes are growing concerns in Namibia, particularly in urban areas. The most common crimes include pick-pocketing, purse snatching and vehicle theft. In recent years, murder, assault, rape and robbery have also been reported. 

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Namibia. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip to Namibia. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Outbreaks of cholera have occurred and are more common in the north of the country.

Risk of malaria is present throughout the year with high risk in the regions of Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Kunene, Kavango West, Kavango East, and Zambezi. No malaria in city of Windhoek. Risk for other mosquito-borne diseases, including Chikungunya and Dengue is present in Namibia. Travellers should take meticulous anti-mosquito bite measures during the daytime.

Schistosomiasis risk is endemic in the northern regions of Kavango and Zambezi, and the region of Omusati. Avoid swimming in fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands and eating raw foods which have not been washed with purified water.

Namibia is ranked among the ten countries with the highest prevalence levels of HIV in the world with an adult HIV prevalence of approximately 12.1%. An estimated 200.000 people are living with HIV in Namibia.

In addition to these health risks, travellers diarrhoea is the most common travel-related medical problem affecting travellers to Namibia. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been boiled.

Tuberculosis is a major public health problem in Namibia.

There are some good quality medical care facilities in Windhoek and the other large towns. However, the quality of care in rural areas and small towns should not be relied upon. Whilst comprehensive medical insurance is strongly advised, travellers should not be surprised to discover that they may be expected to pay for their treatment upfront, sometimes in cash. Treatment may also be expensive.

Pass

Those wishing to enter Namibia will require a passport valid for at least six months after the date of intended departure from the country.

Visum

Visas for stays of up to 90 days are not required by nationals of Australia, Canada, or the US. EU nationals do not require a visa, with the exception of nationals from Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovak Republic and Slovenia who do require a visa.

Travelers from certain countries can obtain a visa on arrival. In other cases visas where required must be obtained in advance of travel. Extensions to visas can be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs in the capital, Windhoek.