| location | |
 | |
| flag | |
 | |
| Short dates | |
| Capital | Windhoek |
|---|---|
| Form of government | republic |
| currency | Namib Dollars (NAD, N $) South Afr. Edge (ZAR, R) |
| surface | 825,000 km² |
| population | 2.01 million |
| languages | English (official language), Afrikaans, German, Ovambo, Herero and many more. |
| Religions | Christians 80-90% (Lutherans at least 50%), natural religions 10% |
| power grid | 220 V / 50 Hz (Three-point plug, type M) |
| Phone code | 264 |
| Internet TLD | .n / A |
| Time zone | CET / CET 1 (end of October-April) |
Namibia is in the southern Africa and borders in the north Angola, in the east Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and in the south to the republic South Africa. The western border of the country is formed by the cold one South Atlantic.
Regions
The country can be divided into the following geographical regions according to its climatic and cultural characteristics:
- Northern Namibia. this area was known as "Ovamboland" during the South African rule and is divided into five administrative units: Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa. The politically correct name for the region today is "Owambo." It is the most densely populated area of the country but still has a rural character. The largest Bantu ethnic group in Namibia lives here, the Wambo. It makes up the absolute majority of the population.
- Northeast Namibia. with the Caprivi Strip and the region Kavango - with the main rivers, north-west Namibia is more tropical and rich in vegetation, but also more hygienically difficult than the rest of Namibia.
- Western Namibia (western Namibia).
.is the rain-suppressed desert and coastal region of Erongo and Kunene (the latter also known as Northwest Namibia and further subdivided into Kaokoland - the country of the Himba as well Damaraland - with the destination, which is interesting because of its many rock carvings Twyfelfontein).
- Central Namibia. around the capital region of Khomas and the city of Windhoek itself, as well as the western part of the Otjozondjupa region.
- Eastern Namibia. especially the Omaheke region, also known as the land of the Herero. Impressive is through the Kalahari Characterized landscape, otherwise more agriculturally than touristic developed.
- South Namibia. includes the Karas and Hardap regions with interesting travel destinations such as the Fish River Canyon and the city Luderitz.
Cities
- 1 Karasburg
- 2 Keetmanshoop
. small town on the main railroad line and road; Access point to the Fish River Canyon.
- 3 Luderitz. old German coastal town. I'm more parts of the Tsau-ǁKhaeb (Restricted Area) National Parks (Diamond Restricted Area) have been released since 2008-12.
- 4 Mariental
- 5 Oranjemund
- 6 Rundu
- 8 Walvis Bay (Walvis Bay, Walfish Bay)
- 9 Warm bath
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Other goals
- 2 Finger cliff (Vingerklip)
- 5 Spitzkoppe
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National parks
Overview: National parks in Namibia
- 6 Cape Cross Seal Reserve.The seal sanctuary at Cape Cross is part of the Skeleton Coast.
- 8 Fish River Canyon.The largest canyon in southern Africa and one of the largest (160 km) in the world.
- 9 Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park (Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park)
- 10 Namib-Naukluft National Park (Namib-Naukluft National Park).the area with the highest dunes in the world.
- 11 Skeleton coast (Skeleton Coast).in the northern part of the Namib Desert. Named in connection with the dozen ships that were stranded here in the thick fog.
- 12 Waterberg.The Waterberg is an approximately 50 ⨉ 16 km large table mountain. The 405 km² Waterberg Plateau Park was established in 1972 to protect the Elan antelope. The last Cape Vultures of Namibia also lived here, but they probably became extinct in 2014. Through resettlement, white and black rhinos have been made at home here. In total there are ninety species of mammals and almost five hundred plant species.
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background
Due to its unique geography and wildlife, Namibia is one of the most visited countries on the continent and an ideal travel destination, especially for safaris. The often untouched nature is specifically protected and preserved through ecological and sustainable tourism.
Namibia has as one of the last countries Africa its state independence was only achieved in 1990. Namibia is a multi-ethnic state with different ethnic groups and history. Some of Namibia's African cultures are among the oldest in the world. Before the First World War, Namibia was colonized by Germans, after which it was part of South Africa for over seventy years as a League of Nations or UN mandate. The German colonial history was made public in 1976 by the TV series Omaruru known.
German and African culture have the strongest influence on life in Namibia, which can be seen in many areas: various festivals (Carnival is celebrated in Windhoek), food (both German and African dishes), Wilhelmine architecture. Around 30,000 of the two million Namibians speak German as their mother tongue (equal parts white and black Namibians) and you get along well with German as well as English: Germans generally have a good reputation, but the African cultures and languages should also be in the country be respected.
getting there
Entry requirements
For tourists from Western Europe (mainly the EU before the eastward expansion, excluding the European dwarf states), Swiss and Liechtenstein residents, there is no visa requirement for stays of up to 90 days per year. Travelers must be able to prove that they have left the country (return or onward ticket).
At the border crossings and at the airport, a Visitor entry permit stamped in the passport. It is usually only issued for the planned length of stay. Here you should immediately check whether the period of time for the planned trip is sufficient. (Extensions can be obtained from Ministry of the Interior in Windhoek This also applies to holders of diplomatic passports. A visa is required for all other purposes, including short business trips. Eastern Europeans who can get a visa-on-arrival can get one at the international airports and the border crossings Ariamsvlei, Noordoewer, Oranjemund, Trans-Kalahari, Katima Mulilo and Oshikango.
The passport must be valid for at least six months. The same applies to the child's passport for children. An identity card is not sufficient for entry. Damaged documents (kinked, torn) can lead to rejection.
As in neighboring South Africa, unaccompanied minors require the consent of both parents ("affidavit" in English) that the child may travel alone to enter and leave the country. The certified copies of the passports of both parents must be attached to the affidavit. For children traveling with only one parent, the consent of the other must also be carried.
Who made one Yellow fever infection area comes, e.g. across the land border from Angola, requires proof of vaccination.
Also note the sometimes somewhat unusual travel conditions South Africa.
inch
Namibia belongs to the customs union of southern Africa (with South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini). There are no restrictions here.
Local currency may be imported in cash up to the equivalent of N $ 50,000, but must be declared from N $ 5000.
Hunting travelers must enter their weapons at a separate counter. A hunting license from the home country is not required, as in Namibia hunting is only allowed with the company of a local hunting guide.
The export of hunting trophies and skins is subject to a permit. The local organizer will normally take care of this as well. When returning to the EU, note that the import of lion and elephant components is prohibited even if the country of origin has a corresponding CITES certificate.
With regard to the export of diamonds to Europe, see EU directive on the "Kimberley Process".
- Allowances
- 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g tobacco
- 1 liter of schnapps or 2 liters of wine
- 50 ml of perfume
- Gifts up to N $ 1250
By plane
Windhoek is usually the first place you arrive by plane. There are two Airports near Windhoek. Husea Kutako International Airport is served by Air Namibia Non-stop from Germany. The smaller Eros Airport offers connections to destinations within the country and is the starting point for most fly-in safaris.
By train
It is not possible to travel to Namibia by train.
By bus
The most convenient international bus connections run from Cape Town and the Victoria Falls to Namibia. There is also a connection out Johannesburg. Provides information on timetables and prices Intercape Mainliner. By combining bus trips and Hitchhiking you can also get to Namibia from anywhere in Botswana.
In the street
Top speeds: 60-80 km / h in urban areas, 120 km / h on country roads.
It is forbidden to leave the roads when driving through national parks. A round traffic sign with a red circle and a crossed-out S means "Stopping on the hard shoulder is prohibited." There is a ban on cell phones and wearing seat belts is mandatory. Alcohol at the wheel is forbidden, i.e. 0.0 per mille!
Anyone planning to rent a vehicle or drive their own must have one international driving license or carry an English translation of the German with you.
A road toll is charged when entering the country with your own vehicle. The receipt must be kept for police checks.[1] Anyone coming from Zambia or Angola must also show proof of ownership. For rental cars from South Africa you need a letter of approval from the landlord to cross the border, which is often subject to a charge.
You can travel by car from South Africa. Some tourists rent a car there and return it to Windhoek after their trip.
The 2004 completed TransCaprivi Highway allows it from Walvis Bay to Luanda to drive on tarred roads.
On the Trans-Kalahari Highway one arrives from Maputo in Mozambique above Pretoria to the Botswana border at Lobatse, then through Jwaneng to Windhoek and Walvis Bay.
- Border crossings Botswana
Entry is also possible from Botswana. The main route here is the Trans-Kalahari Highway (A2), which leads east to the Indian Ocean. The transition, which is open from 7 a.m. to midnight, is 1 Mamuno (Charles Hill) / Buitepos(22 ° 16 ′ 51 ″ S19 ° 59 ′ 56 ″ E).
On the Namibian side that is just before the border East Gate Rest Camp
In the Caprivi area, the posts are manned from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- 2 Mohembo(18 ° 15 ′ 35 ″ S21 ° 45 ′ 42 ″ E).
- 3 Ngoma Bridge(17 ° 55 ′ 17 ″ S24 ° 43 '15 "E).
- Angola
Visiting tourist attractions in the border area with Angola: “In various places the border with Angola is not marked at all or is only marked by a low wire fence. Anyone who crosses the border illegally (even for a few meters) must expect arrest by the Namibian or Angolan border police, fines and / or imprisonment. "[2]
All five border posts close at 7 p.m. at the latest.
The border crossing 4 Ongwediva / Omahenene(17 ° 23 ′ 30 ″ S14 ° 34 '2 "E) lies between the Namibian Ruacana and the Angolan Naulila.
- Zambia
The only land border between the countries opens 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. She is at 5 Wenela (Katima Mulilo) / Sesheke(17 ° 28 ′ 40 ″ S24 ° 14 '47 "E) over the Zambezi.
- Border crossings South Africa
The posts are closed at night. Opening times vary from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. to 7/8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. at smaller stations (often an hour shorter in winter).
- The transition at 6 Rietfontein(26 ° 45 ′ 22 ″ S20 ° 0 ′ 3 ″ E).
- From Upington (RSA) or in the opposite direction Karasburg (NAM):
- Directly on the N10 / B3 7 Nakop / Ariamsvlei(28 ° 5 ′ 41 ″ S19 ° 59 ′ 57 ″ E), Open 24 hours. The posts here are each some distance from the actual border.
- On the N14 direction 11 Springbok(29 ° 39 ′ 58 ″ S17 ° 53 '46 "E), after 211 km in Pofadder turn over the Oranje bei 8 Onseepkans(28 ° 44 ′ 22 ″ S19 ° 18 ′ 13 ″ E) then 103 km to Karasburg.
- Coming from Cape Town on the N7 via Springbok, to the Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park above 9 Vioolsdrift(28 ° 45 ′ 57 ″ S17 ° 37 ′ 34 "E) or in the park with the Ochta-Ferry across the Oranje nearby 10 Sendelingsdrif(28 ° 7 ′ 22 ″ S16 ° 53 '23 "E).
- Near the coast is the 11 Border bridge(28 ° 34 ′ 6 ″ S16 ° 30 ′ 21 ″ E) across the Orange River between Alexander Bay (RSA) and Oranjemund (in the restricted diamond area, accessible since Oct. 2017).
By boat
Sailors with their own yacht can enter Port of Lüderitz or Walvis Bay clear in. Formalities are minimal and fees are moderate. There are shipyards in both ports, the facilities in Walvis Bay are better. Trade winds are usually constant, strongest from October to January; the cold Benguela Current is also drifting north. It is often foggy off the coast.
The coast south of Lüderitz is a restricted area to protect the economic interests of the DeBeers diamond monopoly. Between the two, 265 nautical miles apart, there are ports in the 13 Hottentot Bay(26 ° 6 ′ 8 ″ S14 ° 57 ′ 4 ″ E) or on 14 Mercury Island (Spencer Bay)(25 ° 43 ′ 8 ″ S14 ° 49 ′ 58 "E) To make intermediate stops.
mobility
Namibia has a good road network. In addition, the public transport between the few localities is also quite well developed. Due to the sometimes large distances, the plane is also a good means of transport.
Car and motorcycle
The main roads are paved or excellent gravel roads. The most important connecting routes are tarred (A and B roads) and you can drive around 120 km / h. However, most roads consist of gravel or sand tracks (C and D roads) that allow a maximum speed of 80 km / h. Four-wheel drive is generally not required, but can be useful in the rainy season, as rivers, which are dry for most of the year, carry water at times; bridges are only common on category B and C roads. Since off-road vehicles are more robust than cars, they are less prone to breakdowns on bad roads. If you have to drive in soft sand, it makes sense to reduce the tire pressure.
An international driver's license is required. Although credit cards are widely used, most of them need cash to fill up.
Fuel prices are set by the state, but are often adjusted. In January 2019, gasoline in Walvis Bay costs NS $ 12.05 (95 octane), diesel N $ 13.1 and thus NR $ 1.2 less than in the previous month. Away from the big cities (especially in the (JHlb-) desert areas in the west, you should use every opportunity to refuel, as there are not open gas stations in every small town.
When renting a car on site, you should read the terms and conditions carefully, as a number of clauses deviate from European practice. In some cases, the burden of proof is reversed with comprehensive insurance, i.e. the driver must prove that he was not negligent. Accident and theft protection (“Collision Damage Waiver” and “Theft Loss Waiver”) are often separately paid policies. The industry association CARAN Affiliated companies are usually more serious, the condition of the vehicle (2 spare wheels, brakes) should also be checked carefully before driving overland.
bicycle
The paved roads outside the cities are dangerous for touring cyclists because truckers and car drivers are not used to bicycles and often overtake very closely. For tours on slopes, the bike should be very stable and have tires that are as wide and tread as possible. Camping in the wild is sometimes difficult because the landscape is open and the terrain is often rocky. Some national parks in the north are not allowed to be used with bicycles. Helmets are compulsory for cyclists in the country.
By plane
Air Namibia offers flights between most major locations (Katima Mulilo, Luderitz, Walvis Bay) of the country, with the hub in Windhoek. There are also a number of charter airlines that operate as you wish.
railroad
The rail connections correspond to those that the German colonial administration had built at the beginning of the 20th century. The turnstile is that Windhoek Railway Station from there to Swakopmund, Tsumeb in the north and in the south to Aus / Lüderitz.
The train is a rare means of transport for trips within the country, the routes are primarily used for freight traffic and are only served once a day by passenger trains or wagons attached to freight trains.
By bus
The lines serve the population centers, to see the scenic attractions you have to rely on cars.
Intercape Mainliner-Buses are comparatively fast, cheap and well-equipped. Routes used include: Windhoek - Swakopmund, Katima Mulilo, Walvis Bay and Grootfontain. In addition to Intercape Mainliner, NamVic Shuttle (Windhoek - Victoria Falls) and Ekonolux liner (Windhoek - Cape Town). Also drives Trans-Namib to Outjo, Khorixas, Lüderitz, Henties Bay, Oshakati, Rundu and Grootfontain.
Many routes are reached by 15-seat minibuses that depart when full.
motorcycle
Motorcycling in Namibia is uncomplicated. It is important that there are often long stages between refueling points. This is especially true for trips away from paved roads. The range should be at least 300 kilometers. This is especially true for trips to more remote regions of the Kaokoveld, Damaraland and the Kunene region. Here it is advisable to check the refueling options in advance.
Away from the tarred roads, a motorcycle with sufficient off-road capabilities (travel enduro, enduro) makes sense. Lighter, well-maintained gravel roads are also feasible with a road machine. The supply of spare parts is not as easy as in Germany, as many parts have to be imported from South Africa. The best care is in Windhoek, for example in the Bike and Quad Clinic. In the north is in Grootfontain at the gas station Northern bikes and quads, according to the owner Johan Spangenberg “The last decent motorbike shop before Cairo.” In Kamanjab there is a workshop that also maintains and repairs motorcycles.
Your own motorcycle can be used via Air freight or by sea freight be brought to Namibia. Attention, it is a stamped for the entire South African Customs Union Carnet of passage required. Entry by land is problem-free. Liability insurance is not required as this is included in the gasoline price. However, there is a road toll when entering with your own motorcycle.
language
The official language is English. There are also German and Afrikaans spread. The African languages Ovambo, Herero and Damara. There are also numerous other languages and dialects such as Khoisan ("click language") of the Bushmen and the dialects of the Caprivians Caprivi Strip.
If you speak English it shouldn't be a problem to get by in most parts of the country. German is also spoken on many farms and in the cities that were founded during the colonial era. Many farm owners are descendants of German settlers and have retained their dialect. So it can happen that you have a chat with a "Hessen" who has never been to Germany. Knowledge of Afrikaans is helpful, but not necessary here. Anyone who speaks a few words of English in addition to German will be able to communicate well in Namibia. If you address someone in English (with a German accent), they will often answer in German.
Many black Namibians, especially in rural areas, do not speak English, but only Afrikaans and their own tribal language. As long as you are in the cities and tourist areas, you can get by with German and English, but even in the Etosha National Park many of the black employees speak only Afrikaans.
activities
carnival
The carnival in Namibia mainly plays a role with the German Namibians. Seven large carnivals take place throughout the year, which are based on the traditions of the Cologne Carnival and the Mainz Carnival.
- The biggest carnival is that Windhoek Carnival, which is celebrated in numerous places in Windhoek in March and April.
- The Swakopmund Carnival takes place four weeks in June.
- The Tsumeb Carnival takes place on two to three days at the end of July / beginning of August.
- The Lüderitz Carnival takes place over two to three days in September.
- The Carnival in Otjiwarongo is the smallest in Namibia and is celebrated a few days in July.
- The East Carnival takes place every two years in even years, in the small town Witvlei instead of.
- The Carnival Walvis Bay, takes place in mid-March
shop
The local currency is the Namibian dollars (N $; NAD), which has the same value as the South African rand. The rand is valid as a means of payment in Namibia. Often you get the South African currency back as change.
Exchange rate: € 1 = N $ 18.4 (March 2021)
In almost all cities there are several banks with ATMs, most of which also accept EC cards. International credit cards are also accepted in many accommodations, but not at petrol stations. Credit card fraud does occur, so you should keep an eye on the payment processing of the staff. The last day of the month is “pay day,” then and on the following day there is a large crowd at bank counters and ATMs with corresponding waiting times. With effect from June 30, 2019, the acceptance of checks in the country has been completely abolished.
Lunch break is usually 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., this also applies to authorities. In larger cities there are not only small shops but also large supermarkets. Before tours, it is advisable to stock up there, the big chains are Checkers and Shoprite, the former having the better choice. Almost all of the goods available there come from South Africa, including fruit and vegetables. In some cities there are souvenir stalls in the streets where Namibians offer homemade things. The objects are often very artistic and not expensive by German standards. The same items can sometimes be seen at the international airport for a significantly higher price. However, the operators of the stands often make strolling more difficult because they want to act immediately. The advice that one only wants to look is responded to with even more energetic action.
VAT refunds for tourists are processed rather slowly, ask for a second copy of the invoice to be on the safe side.
The sale of alcohol in supermarkets is severely restricted. No later than 7:00 p.m. on weekdays, or Saturday after 1:00 p.m. or on Sundays and public holidays. Anyone who still needs something is up shebeens dependent - unlicensed sellers especially in the black quarters.
kitchen
A cup of coffee or a beer (with service) in 2018 does not cost more than N $ 30, a full meal a maximum of N $ 300, usually significantly less.
In Namibian cuisine, you can roughly distinguish between three styles:
- Southwest kitchen. Southwest cuisine is the name given to the way Germans cook in Namibia. Black Forest cake is just as much a part of everyday life as knuckle of pork with sauerkraut. Other meat dishes that seem a bit more African also have German names (Oryx steak Baden-Baden, Zebra in cranberry-pepper sauce with croquettes), German baked goods (e.g. bread rolls) can be found in almost every city, as well as all kinds of sausage specialties and beer according to the German purity law. The former colonists maintain their kitchen and so it is very common in the country to this day.
- Traditional African cuisine. This area includes dishes such as Mealie Pap (white corn porridge), which is served with various sauces. Other dishes have also found their way into everyday life: grilled warthog skin or mopane caterpillars (are grilled or dried). However, such dishes are usually not served in city restaurants. The "white kitchen" still predominates here.
- Modern Namibian recipes. In the years since Namibia's independence, a modern style has developed that mixes Southwest cuisine with African cuisine and also has South African influence. (e.g. ostrich carpaccio, Potjiekos.)
On the coast you can also find many fish dishes, although the majority of them have white (German) influences.
Antelope steak is part of the standard repertoire in many restaurants and accommodations. Springbok, oryx or kudu steak, which can be fried in different ways, are very popular. Occasionally you will also find ostrich fillet and crocodile meat on the menu.
beverages
Nambrew and Windhoek Beer is the local brewery that has its origins in the Rock cellar [sic] leads back. Whose local brands are Hansa (this brewery in Swakopmund has been closed), King stock, the thin Windhoek Draft Among other things, the subsidiary also sells Heineken and Erdinger as well as the South African Stellenbrau, plus a number of soft drinks. The small business Camelthorn has also been bought up, the brand lives on as wheat beer. Desert camp is made by a microbrewery that started operations in December 2018. The preferred beer in the Caprivzipfel is Munati.
Omalodu-iilya is a fermented drink made from different types of millet.
Amerula liqueur, is a creamy drink that is also popular in South Africa, especially for women, made from the fruits of the Elephant tree will be produced. (That wild animals get drunk on its fermenting fruits is an “urban myth” that persists.)
At Außenenkehr, a wine-growing area has been created through artificial irrigation, the products of which are mainly exported to South Africa.
nightlife
The night life has been increasing since the smoking ban in 2014 social media-Usage decreased.
accommodation
In many areas of Namibia there are campsites that are certainly the cheapest overnight accommodation. You will not pay more than N $ 400 for 3 people plus vehicle in 2018. Meat and wood for grilling (braai) is often sold on site.
There are state and private rest camps, the latter usually being cleaner and more lovingly cared for. In National parks, e.g. in the Fish River Canyon, in Sossusvlei or in the Etosha National Park you have no choice, you have to make do with the less comfortable state campsites.
Cheap home accommodation is offered by so-called "backpackers" where several people share a room. The prices are around N $ 200-300 per night (2018). An overnight stay in so-called guest farms is also possible, the prices fluctuate greatly depending on the facilities and location in the country. The most luxurious options are Lodges, which are also widespread. Regarding the guest farms and lodges, it should be noted that they usually only have a limited number of rooms, so it is advisable to make a reservation before you start your journey - if possible a few months before the start of the journey.
There are numerous pensions and hotels in the cities. Overall, prices depend not only on comfort, but also on location. Accommodation near the Etosha National Park or near Sossusvlei is much more expensive than in regions with fewer tourist attractions.
public holidays
On national holidays there is January 1st: New Year; May 1st: Labor Day; May 4th: Cassinga Day, here is the Bombing of a refugee camp thought during the civil war; 25. May: Africa Day; July 9: Constitution Day; Aug 26: Hero's Day; Dec 10: Human Rights Day. If a public holiday falls on the weekend, it will be "made up for" on Monday.
There are also the religious festivals: Good Friday (April 2, 2021), Easter Monday (April 5, 2021), Ascension Day (May 13, 2021) and two Christmas holidays, with December 26 being called “Family Day”.
security
Police (nationwide): ☎ 10111
The usual bribe demands of the police against tourists in the rest of Africa do not occur.
“The number of thefts against foreigners remains high both in Windhoek and in the province. There are more and more armed robberies, including in guest houses. "[2]The crime rate in the cities, especially in Windhoek, should not be underestimated, so that tourists are repeatedly advised not to go out into the streets when it is dark and to take a taxi to get home. A trip usually costs less than two euros. Das Straßenbild bestätigt das zumindest, die Wohnhäuser der wirtschaftlich mittleren und oberen Bevölkerungsschichten sind fast ausnahmslos umzäunt, meistens sogar von Mauern umgeben, auf denen zusätzlich Stacheldraht oder Elektrozäune angebracht sind. Wesentlich ist sicherlich auch die wirtschaftliche Abhängigkeit und Nähe zu Südafrika. Viele Versicherungsunternehmen, deren Hauptsitze in Südafrika liegen, adaptieren die verschärften Vertragsbedingungen aus Südafrika, so dass Elektrozäune praktisch vorgeschrieben sind.
Tagsüber besteht normalerweise keine Gefahr. Generell gilt wie auch für viele andere Reiseziele der Ratschlag, Wertgegenstände nicht auffällig zur Schau zu tragen. Jedoch gilt auch hier: gesunden Menschenverstand walten lassen. Die Hauptstraßen in der Nacht nicht verlassen, dann passiert nichts!
Homosexuelle Handlungen sind strafbar, werden aber nicht aktiv verfolgt. Drogendelikte werden streng bestraft, für Eigenbedarfsmengen sind 1-3 Jahre Haft üblich.
Seit 2014 gilt ein Rauchverbot in der Öffentlichkeit, am Arbeitsplatz, in öffentlich zugänglichen Gebäuden (inkl. Bars und Restaurants) und in zwei Metern Abstand zu entsprechenden Fenstern. Strafrahmen N$ 500 oder ein Monat Haft.
health
Leitungswasser kann nicht überall getrunken werden. Kein Problem ist es in Lüderitz. In der Walfischbucht gibt es z.B. am Yachtclub unterschiedliche Hähne für Trink- und Brauchwasser.
Bei der Einreise nach Namibia besteht keinerlei Impfzwang, zu empfehlen ist eine Impfung gegen Hepatitis A/B, die Variante E tritt im Norden auf. Tropenkrankheiten wie Gelbfieber oder Cholera kommen nicht vor, für die nördlichen Landesteile, Owambo und Caprivizipfel empfiehlt sich eine Malariaprophylaxe, auf jeden Fall ist in den Abendstunden ein Mückengel und Schutz durch entsprechende Kleidung notwendig. In einigen Landesteilen gibt es Tollwut, eine Impfung ist aber nur anzuraten, wenn man sich längere Zeit in diesen Gebieten aufhält. In dieser Region tritt auch gelegentlich Milzbrand auf. Aktuelle Empfehlungen zur Malariaprophylaxe und Impfempfehlungen für Namibia findet man auf Tropeninstitut.de
In den Landesteilen im äußersten Norden (z.B. Caprivi) herrscht ganzjährig Malaria- and Bilharziose-Gefahr (also Schistosomiasis genannt). Letztere Krankheit wird durch kleine Saugwürmer, den Pärchenegeln (Schistosomen) verursacht, deren Larven von Süßwasserschnecken vor allem in stehenden Gewässer freigesetzt werden. Man infiziert sich durch Hautkontakt mit Süßwasser, wobei die Würmer durch die Haut in den Körper eindringen und sich über Blut- und Lymphgefäße in die Leber begeben. Von hier aus machen sich dann die erwachsenen Pärchenegel erneut via Blutbahn auf den Weg in die Lunge, die Harnblasenwand und das Gehirn.
AIDS ist in Namibia sehr stark verbreitet, die Rate liegt 2016 bis zu 17% der 15-49jährigen, höher im Norden des Landes und Prostituierten.
Das Rettungswesen ist in Namibia wenig ausgebaut, was wohl mit den erheblichen Entfernungen und der dünnen Besiedelung zusammenhängt. Ein dichtes Netz von Notarzteinsatzfahrzeugen und Rettungswagen wie in Europa gibt es nicht. Die privaten Krankenhäuser der großen Städte haben Weltniveau, außerhalb gibt es bestenfalls Sanitätsstützpunkte. Bei schweren Notfällen kommt ein in Windhuk stationierter großer Rettungshubschrauber (der 2012 für das ganze Land zuständig ist), sofern der Notfall zwischen ca. 8.00 Uhr und 15.00 Uhr stattfindet - der Hubschrauber muss noch bei Tageslicht eines der großen Krankenhäuser erreichen können.Überlandfahrten bei Dunkelheit, noch dazu auf Schotterpisten, sind akut lebensgefährlich und daher tunlichst zu unterlassen.
Schlangenbisse stellen eine ernstzunehmende Gefahr dar, zum einen wegen der extrem langen Wege zur nächsten Rettungsstation, zum anderen, weil die Dutzende von Schlangenarten vom Touristen nicht auseinandergehalten werden können. Damit ist der Einsatz von speziellen Antiseren nicht möglich und wird in der Regel gar nicht erst versucht, so dass sich auch in gut ausgerüsteten Kliniken die Behandlung auf symptomatische Maßnahmen erstreckt: Infusionen, medikamentöse Kreislaufstützung, ggf. Dialyse, Beatmung usw.
climate
Climate in Windhuk: Ganzes Jahr gute Reisebedingungen, trockenes Klima; Hochsommer zwischen Dezember und März; Winter zwischen Mai und August, in diesen Monaten regnet es nicht.
Es kann in der Wüste nachts sehr kalt werden, eine Jacke oder guten Pullover mitzunehmen ist unerlässlich.
respect
Bei Portrait-Fotografien von Menschen sollte grundsätzlich vorher um Erlaubnis gefragt werden, gelegentlich wird ein Obolus verlangt. Allerdings sollte man auch nicht ungefragt Geld aufdrängen. Das gilt insbesondere für das Volk der Herero, bei denen die Frauen, die sehr auffällig ihre Trachten präsentieren, deutlich im Straßenbild zu erkennen sind.
Die Menschen sind sehr stolz auf sich und ihr Land. Wenn man die Nationalhymne hört, sollte man in jedem Fall aufstehen.
Practical advice
Staub kann ein Problem sein. Ein Arafat-Tuch um den Kopf schützt zugleich vor sengender Sonne und Staub. Wer z.B. hochwertige Kameras mitnimmt, sollte entsprechende Gerätschaften zur Reinigung mitbringen.
The Postdienst funktioniert zwischen Städten gut, Zustellung erfolgt normalerweise innerhalb zweier Werktage. Luftpostbriefe nach Europa kosten 2019 N$ 9,60 pro 10 Gramm (Gebührenübersicht, gültig bis 30.10.19).
Post und Telekommunikation
Die Vorwahl für Namibia ist 264. Die zwei Mobilfunkanbieter in Namibia heißen Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) und TN Mobile, wobei MTC flächendeckender aufgestellt und verbreiteter ist. Deren Starterpack Traveller kostet (2018) N$ 19,95, davon N$ 19,00 Guthaben. Teurer sind die Aweh-Pakete mit relativ geringem, zubuchbarem Datenvolumen. Es kann sehr viel günstiger sein Datenvolumen per SMS zuzukaufen, als Karten zu erwerben. Auslandsgespräche sind ebenfalls zubuchbar, 30-Minuten-Pakete nach China oder Europa z.B. N$ 95.
Das Mobilfunknetz ist vor allem in den Städten und entlang der Hauptrouten verfügbar. Auf dem Land, wo GSM auch 2019 noch Standard ist, endet der Empfang spätestens 30 km von der nächsten Ortschaft. Einige Autovermietungen bieten auch Satellitentelefone an, die jedoch sehr teuer und nur für besondere Zwecke notwendig sind.
Aufgrund der hohen Roaming-Gebühren der europäischen Mobilfunk-Anbieter ist der Kauf einer namibischen Prepaid-SIM-Karte vor Ort sinnvoll. Diese gibt es z.B. auf dem Flughafen von Windhuk im Ankunftsterminal, sie heißen in Namibia “air-time”-Karten.
Nur in größeren Städten gibt es Internet-Cafés. Man darf aber keine Geschwindigkeitswunder erwarten, Ende 2017 lag die landesweite Downloadgeschwindigkeit bei ø 12,5 MBits. DSL gibt es inzwischen, Paratus hat in Windhuk mit dem Ausbau von 100 MBit-Leitungen begonnen. TelecomNA wollte die Anschlussqoute von 31% (2017) durch Abschaffung aller Anschlussgebühren erhöhen.
Jagdsafaris
Es gibt zahlreiche private Anbieter, die in speziellen game reserves Jagdsafaris planen. Diese sind nur in Begleitung eines eines einheimischen zugelassenen Betreuers erlaubt. Der Veranstalter kümmert sich auch um Jagdscheine und die tierabhängigen Abschussgebühren.
literature
- Henno, Martin; Wenn es Krieg gibt, gehen wir in die Wüste; Hamburg 1996 (Albera); ISBN 3931567257 ; [Das Buch handelt von den zwei deutschen Geologen Henno Martin und Hermann Korn, die sich während des Zweiten Weltkriegs zweieinhalb Jahre in der Pränamib um den Kuisebcanyon versteckt hielten, um südafrikanischer Internierung zu entgehen (Chronologie)
- Humphreys, Sarah; Rough Guide to Namibia; 2017
- Köthe, Friedrich; Schetar, Daniela; Namibia: das komplette Handbuch für individuelles Reisen in allen Regionen Namibias - auch abseits der Hauptreiserouten; Markgröningen 82015; ISBN 9783896626066
- Lange, Daniel; Auf deutsch-deutscher UN-Patrouille: die polizeiliche Beobachtereinheit der DDR in Namibia (1989/90); Schkeuditz 2011 (Schkeuditzer Buchverlag); ISBN 9783935530866
- Melber, Henning [Hrsg.]; Katutura: Alltag im Ghetto; Bonn 1988 (Informationsstelle Südl. Afrika); ISBN 3921614260 ; [engl. Orig.: Katutura revisited]; Beschreibt die Lebensbedingungen der eingeborenen Bevölkerung in Windhuk zur Zeit der südafrikanischen Verwaltung.
- Melber, Henning; Namibia: gesellschaftspolitische Erkundungen seit der Unabhängigkeit; Frankfurt 2015 (Brandes & Apsel); ISBN 9783955581091
- Misihairabgwia, Jane; Cheikhyoussef, Ahmad; Traditional fermented foods and beverages of Namibia; Journal of Ethnic Foods; Vol. 4 (2017), Iss. 3, S. 145-153
- Ndengu, Esther; Ndengu, Gabriel; Sprachführer Oshiwambo - Wort für Wort; 2017
- Nuhn, Walter; Auf verlorenem Posten: Deutsch-Südwestafrika im Ersten Weltkrieg; Windhuk ²2015 (Gondwana Collection); ISBN 9789991689661
- Poser, Fabian von; Namibia verstehen; Seefeld 2018 (Studienkreis für Tourismus und Entwicklung)
- Reiseatlas Südafrika Namibia, Botsuana; München 2016 (Kunth); ISBN 9783955042608 [2 Ballungsraumkarten, 10 Citypläne, 9 detaillierte Nationalpark-Karten]
- Schetar, Daniela; Safari - Namibia exklusiv; München 2017 (Kunth); ISBN 9783955044220 ; [Bildband]
- Landkarten
- Autokarte Namibia: travel informations, city plans, national parks = Road map Namibia = Carte routier̀e Namibia; Wien [2001], 1:2,4 Mio., mehrfarb.; 63 ⨉ 64 cm, gefaltet (Mit 3 Nebenkt. u. 4 Stadtpl. auf Vorder- bzw. Rücks.; Legende dt., engl.); ISBN 3850842401
- Directorate of Survey and Mapping; Namibia; 1:100000, 87 Kartenblätter je 50 ⨉ 50 cm
- Namibia, Botsuana: Gaborone - Johannesburg - Windhuk; München 2017 (Kunth), 1:1,5 Mio.; 95 ⨉ 128 cm, gefaltet im Umschlag 26 ⨉ 13 cm, mit 8 Nebenkarten; ISBN 9783955045784
Web links
- Allgemeine Zeitung, Windhuk
- Südwest: unabhängige Zeitung für die Interessen des gesamten Schutzgebiets. Digitalsat der Ausgaben 1910 bis Juli 1914
- Reges Diskussionsforum zu Namibia. Auch weitere Informationen sowie Fotos und Karten
- Namibia Tourism, Büro auch in Frankfurt, Schillerstr. 42-44 (☎ 49 69 1337360)
- Poster namibischer Giftschlangen (African Snakebite Institute)
Individual evidence
- ↑Einzelheiten: Road Fund Administraton (zggr. 2019-01-22)
- ↑ 2,02,1[1] (Stand 2018-12-12)
