How to Self-drive in Namibia
Written by Annapaula Vakamuena
If you have been asking yourself how to go on a self-drive trip to Namibia, wonder no more - we‘ve got you sorted. Below we share how self-driving through Namibia is as effortless as starting the engine. And talking of engines, yours will not contribute to polluting the environment. But more on that later. Now, let's dive into it. Here comes all the info you need on how to self-drive in Namibia.
Which car to choose
By all means, your car should be a 4x4 wheel. The best models in Namibia consist of the Toyota variety such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner and Toyota Landcruiser. Other high-quality vehicles include Land Rover Defender and Nissan NP300 Hardbody.
Before driving off in your new ride, ensure these items are included in your rental:
A toolbox, most importantly it must include a tyre spanner.
A reflector jacket and fire extinguisher - because better safe than sorry.
What to pack
A fuel canister! Always have it filled up for the long stretches as fuel stations are few and far apart. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with no juice.
If you plan on camping, rent camping gear and remember a rooftop tent is much easier to use on a long trip than the one you have to pitch every time. Since it’s on top of your car, you have more space inside to fit other important items such as chairs and tables.
Renting a car with a refrigerator allows you to buy your own groceries. Tip: Make sure to stock up in bigger towns like Windhoek and Swakopmund. Towns are up to 150 km apart already and very few shops can be found in the desert - so travel smart and stock up on snacks!
Stock up on your essentials in Swakopmund
How to change a tyre
Before embarking on your tour, ask for a demonstration from your car rental company to show you how to change a tyre. Make sure the toolbox is in there with a tyre spanner and a car jack.
Very important: When changing a tyre, put the spare tyre under your car just next to the tyre you are changing, so that if the jack happens to flip off, the car will not land on your feet but on the spare tyre. Plus it creates space to fit the jack back in.
Tighten the nuts very well before hitting the road and get your tyre repaired at the next stop. This usually takes about 20 minutes. So to be prepared for all events, always have an extra tyre.
When to fill up
Between you and that immense country is a happy tank. It's not that happy when it’s hungry and neither will you be, if you are stuck in the middle of nowhere because you didn’t feed it. Don’t wait for your tank to be close to empty. Fill it up every chance you get. The service stations in remote areas, for example in Etosha National Park, are supplied by fuel trucks coming from the nearest town and it can take up to a day for them to arrive. Memo: Fill up when fuel is available.
Cash is king
Most service stations in Namibia accept card payment but for a smoother transaction, cash wears the crown. ATMs are found at every service station in every town. So then should you carry a briefcase? Well, you might want to have at least some cash with you. For more tips for your Namibia adventure head straight to our complete guide: All you need to know when travelling to Namibia.
With the right tools, changing a tyre doesn’t sound so mechanical, does it now? We want you to have a smooth ride. That's why we provide you with useful information regarding how to self-drive. Another thing we help you with is the carbon footprint of your trip. Don’t worry though, after calculating your CO2 emissions, we will set them off for you! If you want to know more about our mission to preserve nature, check out Sustainability at Viatu.
