Namibia self-drives

With scenic routes, well-graded roads and left-hand-side driving, Namibia is ideal for self-driving. Car rental allows for a flexible and independent holiday, allowing you to choose how and where to spend your time. Choose from a range of vehicles and enjoy the open, winding, coastal, mountain and bush roads of this incredible country. 

Self-drives

Driving in Namibia is fun, easy and ideal for families, friends and couples who enjoy a more independent holiday. Namibians drive on the same side of the road as the UK and versus what we’re used to, there’s very little traffic. 

Our Wonders of Namibia itinerary is a great example of a self-drive route in Namibia, but this is purely a suggestion and is completely flexible. Although the drive times can be long on this incredible itinerary, the stunning scenery is certainly worth it. The roads here are well-graded, making them easy to drive along and there’s so much to see that it’s difficult to choose your stopping points. The freedom of having your own vehicle means that you can also get into places early and experience the quiet of the orange desert in relative solitude. 

We recommend staying a couple of nights in the city that you land in before picking up your rental car from a local depot. 

Car hire 

Choice of car
Our long-term rental partner, Europcar, offers a quality fleet and high standards of service. Choose from a range of cars, from small economy and compact vehicles to full-size vans and SUVs. All of the cars are easy to drive, with manual and automatic both available. It's important to consider your group size and how much luggage you'll have with you when choosing your vehicle. 

Here are a few examples of the range of vehicles available.

Licence info
All drivers must present a full licence held for a minimum of 2 years. For all rentals, the licence must be in English, or a foreign licence with an International Driving Permit. Photographic identification is required. For drivers under 23, a young driver surcharge applies.

Inclusions
In Namibia, the rental packages can vary but typically includes unlimited mileage, theft and collision damage waiver, personal accident insurance, airport surcharge, tourism levy, VAT and carbon emission tax.

Upgrade to the Classic Plus package which includes coverage against tyre, rim and sand blasting damage. The highest level, the Classic Max, also includes a GPS unit and permits additional drivers.

One-way fees 
For all rentals returned more than 150km (approx. 93 miles) from the original rental office, a one-way fee is payable. One-way fees outside of Namibia to South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho and Botswana are permitted. Please enquire for details.

Need to know
We strongly recommend upgrading to a 4x4 as long sections of driving in Namibia are on gravel roads, especially when travelling in the wet season (December to April). We also recommend researching the areas you plan to cover prior to departure, or asking one of our experts, so that you can plan your days and make the most of your time in this unique setting.

Travel tips

Restrictions
It’s important to take note of specific driving restrictions that apply to rentals in Namibia. Your rental vehicle must only be used on roads that are properly formed and constructed as sealed, metalled or gravel roads.

Luggage
Carefully consider your luggage requirements before choosing your vehicle.

Tolls
Tolls are only payable in cash. Further information is available when collecting your vehicle. 

Cross-border journeys
Ask for additional details.

Co-pilot kit

A number of our self-drive packages with our local representative, GoVacations Africa, include a personalised co-pilot kit. This provides you with all of the practical information you need to navigate the roads, plan your journey and make the most of your Namibia self-drive adventure. You can also add this co-pilot kit to any tailor-made self-drive itinerary.

Inclusions

• Driving instructions
• Detailed day-by-day itinerary description and directions
• Road atlas
• Local visitor guides
• VIP Card with discount offers for various attractions
• Handy canvas folder