Love it or loathe it, packing is an important part of any holiday – and none more so than a Namibia safari. There’s open air game drives, bush walks, and mountain hikes to think about, as well as swimming pools and soaring desert temperatures. And, of course, it’s all got to fit into a 15kg bag for those teeny tiny planes. But panic not – we’re here to help! This is our list of handy hints and tips for what to pack for Namibia, plus a few bits and pieces you might never have thought of.
Stay warm
“But Namibia’s mostly desert”, we hear you cry. “It must be hot!” Well, sort of. During the day temperatures are indeed high, especially in the summer months of November to April. But such vast, open spaces and clear desert skies mean that when darkness falls, the temperature can drop dramatically. Be prepared with a warm jacket, a sweater (or two or three), long socks, a scarf, a beanie, and even gloves. You’ll be grateful for them, we promise!
Good shoes
If there’s only one thing on your Namibia packing list, make it good shoes. Whether you’re scampering up dunes in Sossusvlei, hiking rocky canyons on the hunt for Bushmen art, or traversing the plains in hot pursuit of a rhino, closed-toe, comfortable boots or walking shoes are a must. Plus, they’ll keep your toes warm on chilly evenings and protect you from the mosquitoes. Even more reason to ditch the flip flops!
Swim, swim, swim
We just told you how cold it was going to be but if you’re thinking about what to pack for Namibia, remember to throw in a swimming costume. The desert is hot, dry and dusty and whenever you come across a swimming pool, you’ll want to get in it – pronto.
All the moisture
Perhaps not the first thing that springs to mind when you’re pondering what to pack for Namibia, but a good moisturiser is definitely worth having. The desert heat is drying in summer and icy in winter, neither of which will leave your skin in tip top condition. Pack a good face and body moisturiser (with SPF) and a good chapstick, and you’ll be the envy of your fellow travellers.
Go go gadgets
Namibia is a photographer’s dream, and, even if you don’t consider yourself a professional, we dare you to try not to flash your camera at the immense landscapes. Many of the camps however, have very basic charging facilities and having a spare battery or two for your camera will put your mind at rest and ensure you don’t miss out on that star shot. And while we’re on the subject, pack some extra memory cards too.
Sarong time
A sarong or African kikoy seems to be feature on just about every ‘What to pack for Namibia’ list, but that’s because it’s an essential. With multiple uses from towel to headscarf, sun shade to plain old sarong, a lightweight piece of material won’t take up any space in your bag and you’ll wonder what you ever did without it.
Sun cream and sunglasses
The cool, desert air can be deceptive in Namibia and even when it feels windy or not quite as warm, a high factor sunscreen at a minimum of SPF30 is a must. The gravel roads can give off quite a glare, as can the large expanses of sand so a good pair of sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat (or both if you can) should also be on your what to pack for Namibia list.
Health and safety
Both Windhoek and Swakopmund, as well as other large towns and cities, have excellent and well-stocked pharmacies. But in a country as vast as Namibia, you could find yourself quite a distance from an urban establishment. Be prepared and add a small medical kit including painkillers, insect repellent, antiseptic wipes, plasters, and anything else you take regularly to your packing list.
Handbags and man-bags
As well as your large bag or suitcase, add a good day pack or backpack to your Namibia packing list. You’ll often be out all day on game drives or excursions, and having a small bag to throw your water/spare shoes/Kindle/sunscreen/snacks into is a lifesaver. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy, just make sure it closes properly and is big enough for everything you think you might want to take with you.
Zip it up
The last item on our Namibia packing list is an important one – Ziploc bags. Why? That dry desert dust and sand gets everywhere, and the humble Ziploc is the best way to protect your gadgets. Throw in your camera, iPhone, Kindle, GoPro, seal it up, and career down those dunes without a care in the world.
