Namibia Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Namibia due to crime and health.

Crime

Non-violent crimes of opportunity are common. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching, pickpocketing, and smash and grabs from unoccupied parked vehicles. Potentially violent crimes are possible, including home invasions and armed robberies. Weapons most commonly used by criminals are knives and machetes.

Health

Namibia is sparsely populated. Many visitors travel to remote areas far from emergency services and medical facilities. Health facilities are limited and may not have adequate supplies of basic medications, especially outside of large cities.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Namibia

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Namibia, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Muggers often target tourists in Windhoek. Attacks may be violent and can take place at any time of day and in busy city-centre locations. To reduce your personal risk:

• be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark
• keep your valuables and cash out of sight or use a hotel safe
• do not change large sums of money in busy public areas

Vehicle crime

Gangs sometimes try to enter vehicles at busy intersections in Windhoek. Theft from vehicles, particularly at service stations, is common. To reduce the risks:

• do not leave your vehicle unattended at fuel stops
• keep car doors locked and windows shut, especially in heavy traffic
• keep valuables off the seats and out of sight

To reduce the risk of robberies from taxis:

• do not hail taxis from the street, particularly in Windhoek
• ask your hotel, guest house or tour operator to recommend a reputable taxi company
• do not enter townships at night, unless you are with someone with local knowledge

Credit card skimming

There have been cases of credit card skimming at some hotels and lodges. Always keep your card in sight when paying and check your statement.

Risk level

Namibia - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Namibia due to the high level of crime.

Border with Angola

Exercise a high degree of caution along the Namibia-Angola border due to the risk of banditry and the presence of poachers. The border is not always clearly marked. Do not trespass and cross only at official border crossings.

Landmines

Namibia completed its demining efforts and declared itself mine-free in 2001; however, residual landmines and unexploded ordnance from past conflicts could still pose hazards in the border area between Katwitwi (a village on the Okavango River in Kavango West Region) and Kongola (a town in Zambezi Region).

• Stay on paved and main roads
• Cross only at official border crossings
• Pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and cell phone theft, occurs frequently.

Theft occurs frequently in:

• popular tourist areas
• crowded places, including urban shopping areas
• vehicles, especially unattended vehicles at gas stations
• ATMs and surrounding areas

During your trip:

• avoid walking outside after dark
• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents, in a secure place
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs and only use those located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs, particularly in Windhoek. Incidents include:

• muggings
• burglaries
• carjackings

During your stay:

• avoid isolated areas
• keep your accommodation doors and windows closed and locked at all times
• keep your car doors and windows closed and locked, especially in heavy traffic
• do not stop on the road to offer help to others
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• if confronted, remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate the situation

纳米比亚风险等级为蓝色（低风险）