The landscape in Namibia is very varied: from fertile valleys and tropical rainforest in the north to rugged mountain ranges in central Namibia and wide-open and arid plains in the South. The diversity in landscape and climate is also reflected in the wildlife: You will find an incredible diversity of species! The capital Windhoek is located in the centre of the country and is the economic and cultural centre of the country.

Climate

You will find different climate zones in Namibia. The rainfall decreases from east to west and from north to south and the sun shines an average of 300 days a year. The hottest months are December and January – the coldest months July and August. In the desert regions, temperatures rise to over 30°C in summer and can drop to minus 18°C at night in winter. Temperature differences of more than 20°C within one day are not uncommon.

In coastal areas, you have to be prepared for strong and cool winds all year round. Since the water temperature of the sea hardly rises above 15°C, Namibia is not really suitable for bathing holidays. The capital Windhoek is windy – as the name suggests –  all year round, with average summer temperatures of 30°C this is very refreshing. A special feature is the Caprivi Strip in the north-east: This area is rich in wildlife and rivers, there is a lot of rain in summer and it is very humid. Seasonal floodings create a watery wonderland.

Culture

The Namibians are proud people. The individual ethnic groups attach great importance to their specific cultural identity. Herero, for example, likes to display their culture in public and present themselves in fascinating traditional costumes. Nevertheless, before you take pictures of them, you should always ask for permission. Some people ask for a small amount of money.

Gastronomy

Namibian cuisine is influenced by indigenous people such as Herero, San and Himba and colonial cooking, which was introduced by Germans, British and South African settlers in the nineteenth century.

Meat-lovers have to try traditional Namibian dishes like Boerewors (grilled bratwurst with different meat fillings), Game Biltong (dried meat snack), Potjiekos (stew with a lot of meat, millet, potatoes and root vegetables, cooked over an open fire), Namibian Oysters and for the very brave: Mopane Worms (deep-fried, taste like well seasoned french fries)

Namibian restaurants offer a wide selection of local and international food. You can enjoy everyday favourites such as pizza and hamburgers or yourself to one of the best steaks in the world. Highly recommended are game steaks such as springbok, kudu or oryx topped off with a fabulous South African wine.

The German culinary influence and brewing tradition can still be found in some restaurants today. If you are craving for hearty European food you could savour a meal of Wiener Schnitzel accompanied by a cold Windhoek lager and have a feast with Apfelstrudel or Black Forest cake for dessert.

Tap water comes directly from boreholes or is purified and mostly safe to drink. Bottled mineral water, as well as international and local soft drinks, are available at shops and supermarkets.

Transportation

There is only some public transport in Namibia. The function of bus service is operated by local taxis (shared and on-demand). Please remember that you are in Africa and the taxi drivers in Namibia might have a different approach to punctually than you. It is usually no problem to travel by taxi during the day. However, this is not recommended at night!

The best and safest way to get around will be explained to you during orientation on Monday.