Money, Budget, and Shopping in Namibia

Money

Currency

Currency: Namibian dollar (100 cents)

Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 N$

Coins: 5, 10, and 50 cents + 1, 5, and 10 N$

Exchange:

The Namibian dollar (N$) has been the country’s official currency since 1993, when it replaced the South African rand, which was used while Namibia was under South African mandate. Since its introduction, the Namibian dollar has been at parity with the South African currency, with 1 N$ = 1 R. Moreover, both currencies are legal tender and circulate interchangeably in the country (though the reverse is not true).

Exchange

You can exchange money in cities at banks (open weekdays from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, plus Saturdays until 11:00 AM) and other exchange bureaus. Alternatively, as always, withdrawing cash from ATMs is simpler but should be done with caution, as ATMs are only available in major cities and far from ubiquitous.

Note that if you have South African rands, there’s no need to exchange them, as they can be used for payments at the same 1:1 rate as the Namibian dollar.

Which currency to bring

Euros are easily exchanged in Namibia, so there’s no need to bring US dollars. As mentioned, South African currency is also no problem.

Payment methods

Card payments are widely accepted, though not universal. As always, be mindful of bank fees if you make too many small purchases or withdrawals. It’s also wise to carry a supply of local cash (small denominations preferred) when venturing outside cities.

Upon return

While you can exchange leftover Namibian dollars before departure, the rates are usually unfavorable. The simplest approach is to exchange money as needed during your trip or, if you’re passing through South Africa again, use rands for the remainder of your stay.

Budget

Given the lack of public transport and the need for a vehicle (preferably a "camping-equipped" one) or a tour operator, traveling in Namibia requires a certain budget—this without even considering the cost of flights to get there. At best, and preferably off-season, budget around 65–80 € per day per person (for two) if eating locally and camping. Otherwise, expect closer to 100 € per day for a more comfortable experience.

What can be expensive

Flights to the country.

Peak season.

What can be affordable

Camping compared to other accommodation options.

Eating local food.

Price range

Camping: around 15–20 € per night for two.

Double room in a "tourist" hotel: prices start at around 35–40 € for basic guesthouses.

Local restaurant meal: under 10 €.

Tourist restaurant meal: around 15 €.

Budget car rental: around 35–40 € per day.

Budget 4x4 rental: 75–90 € at best for a small model.

100 km by bus: around 4–5 € per 100 km.

100 km by train:

Urban taxi:

Urban bus:

Bargaining and tipping

It’s customary to tip 10–15% in restaurants. Similarly, tips are given during safaris for guides and other staff. Elsewhere, tipping isn’t mandatory, though a small amount is always appreciated.

Bargaining is uncommon and mostly limited to markets when buying handicrafts.