Travel Vaccines and Advice for Namibia
Namibia’s sprawling, untouched landscapes teem with countless types of wildlife and animals. If anyone is looking to experience nature in truest form, then they don’t need to look much further than Namibia.
Etosha National Park is a popular destination in Namibia offering the chance to see and interact with wildlife. If travelers wish to see the city life instead, then they can head to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. In the many buildings in this bustling city, traces of the colonial era are still evident through the architecture.
The variety in attractions and lifestyles makes Namibia the perfect destination for the tourist that wants to get the best of both wild- and city life in Africa.
Do I Need Vaccines for Namibia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Namibia. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Namibia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travel to most regions. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Namibia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Recommended for travel to most regions. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Routine Vaccinations for Namibia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are all present in Namibia. Take measure to protect yourself including using mosquito netting, insect repellents and taking antimalarials (if recommended for your itinerary).
African sleeping sickness has been found in Namibia. Though no cases have been reported in nearly a decade, there is still a risk. Use insect repellents and try to avoid tsetse flies when in regions where the insect is present.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Is There Cholera in Namibia?
Cholera is present in Namibia. The food- and water-borne infection poses a threat to travelers, especially aid workers and individuals visiting family or rural areas where outbreaks are known to occur.
The most reliable protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer Vaxchora, the only cholera vaccine available in the United States. If you are concerned, make sure to book your cholera vaccination appointment today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Namibia
“This was my first time visiting/using the Passport Health services for my Namibia trip, it was an informative and professional experience. Doctor explained information about the country I was visiting, educated me ont he shots, professional environment.”
“I was planning for a trip to Namibia. The specialist discussed all of the immunizations that would provide me with the best protection. I received the immunization shots at that time and was given a packet to take with me to provide additional information if I needed it. I thought the specialist was very thorough and informative.”
“I had a great experience at the Lakewood, CO clinic. The staff was very knowledgable and helpful in getting me the shots I needed for my summer trip to Namibia.”
“Was getting ready to travel to South Africa, Namibia, and India. They did a thorough review of my plans, needs, and vaccination history. They took their time to explain what I could expect and the best ways to minimize the risks of getting sick. Would highly recommend them.”
“Our consulant was both knowledgeble & friendly. She was well prepared for my family’s visit & able to assist us with our vaccines & questions concerning our trip to Namibia. She took the time to discuss options and to make sure we all had a clear understanding of our health needs as they related to our travel. I would definitely recommend Passport Health to anyone in need of travel health assistance! Thank You!”
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Namibia?
Americans planning to visit Namibia will need a visa to enter the country. You will also need a valid U.S. passport that will remain valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure.
Namibia Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Namibia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Namibia and U.S. State Department
Travelers to Namibia must show proof of vaccination at entry or they will not be allowed into the country.
For more information, see our Namibia visa page. Or contact a Passport Health Passport and Visa specialist by calling or by filling out our online form.
What Is the Climate Like in Namibia?
Namibia is one of the sunniest countries on the planet. The nation experiences about 300 days of sun each year. Humidity is often low, but the air can be quite dry. This sun and warmth is typical of most regions in Namibia, but the climate can differ slightly across the country. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:
- Windhoek – In the capital city, the temperatures are more moderate. The typical high in January, the peak summer month in Namibia, is about 90, and the average low is 60. The temperatures in the winter months, July and June, are a bit cooler. There is usually no rainfall between June and September.
- Swakopmund – The coastal city of Swakopmund has a milder desert climate. The weather is more consistent and varies less than in areas such as Windhoek. The average temperatures in Swakopmund range from about 60 to 80. Rainfall is also light in this region.
- Etosha Pan – This region is a popular tourist destination, as it provides the opportunity for many ecotours and wildlife adventures. Again, rainfall in the Etosha region is as rare as it is in other areas in Namibia. In the summer, temperatures can hit the mid-90’s, and can go as low as 60. The dry winters range are more mild.
How Safe Is Namibia?
There are varying levels and types of criminal activity in Namibia.
Banditry is prevalent along the Namibia-Angola border. Make sure you only pass through official border crossing areas and travel during the day. There are police checkpoints 9 mile outside of all major cities and highways. Keep all travel and identification materials with you at all times.
Crimes of opportunity often occur in Namibia. The most prevalent incidents reported include ATM card skimming, purse snatching and pickpocketing. More violent crimes, like rape and murder, have increased in the capital of Windhoek. Residential break-ins also occur.
To avoid risk of these crimes, dress conservatively, do not flaunt valuables and avoid walking alone and at night.
Adventuring With Animals in Namibia
Many tourists flock to Namibia to experience untouched, wild landscapes and animals. Ecotours are very popular among travelers. Hiking, swimming, camping and driving through the wilderness are also choice adventures.
Encounters with wildlife can be dangerous, as animals can be unpredictable. Remember that the creatures you may meet are not domesticated, and are not guaranteed to be friendly. This fact remains true no matter how small or cute a creature may be. Many tourists want to touch or feed animals. But, this can provoke them and lead to potentially violent attacks.
Always bring enough water and supplies on every adventure you partake in.
What Should I Pack for Namibia?
In addition to all travel documents and medications recommended by a Passport Health Travel Medicine Specialist, here are some items to consider packing:
- Insect Repellant – Since malaria is at risk in Namibia, be sure to pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will keep mosquitos at bay. You should also bring neutral colored clothing, as this does not attract insects as much as dark or bright clothes.
- Water Purifier – Not all running and tap water in Namibia is clean or filtered. Avoid drinking it or even brushing your teeth in it. A water purifier will make finding and drinking clean water easier.
- Warm Clothing – Depending on the time of year and region temperatures can be cold. The evenings also tend to cool down, meaning you may need to add some layers if you’re planning to go out after sundown. Packing a few jackets and warm pants will make sure that you are covered.
- Batteries – It can be difficult to find batteries in Namibia. If you have any devices that rely on batteries, such as cameras, it may be wise to pack some extras. In a country this naturally beautiful, you wouldn’t want to miss any chance to take a quick snapshot.
U.S. Embassy in Namibia
All Americans visiting Namibia should register with the U.S. Embassy in Windhoek. This will inform the office of your travel plans and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation. You can register online, through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
U.S. Embassy Windhoek
14 Lossen Street
Windhoek, Namibia
Telephone: 061-295-8500
Fax: 061-295-8603
Visit the U.S. Embassy website before your departure to confirm correct contact details for the U.S. Embassy in Namibia.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Namibia?
Is There Cholera in Namibia?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Namibia?
What Is the Climate Like in Namibia?
How Safe Is Namibia?
Adventuring With Animals in Namibia
What Should I Pack to Namibia?
U.S. Embassy in Namibia
