Namibia: Current Safety Advisories and Fuel Shortages in Etosha National Park

Current advisories for travelers to Namibia concern, on the one hand, fuel supplies in key tourist regions and, on the other hand, general security risks in the country. According to the state-run Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), fuel supplies at several gas stations at NWR lodges are currently severely limited or unavailable. This particularly affects the Halali Resort, the Okaukuejo Resort, the Terrace Bay Resort, the Sesriem Campground, and Ai/Ais Hotsprings & Spa. Anyone planning a trip to Etosha National Park or other remote regions should carefully calculate the fuel requirements for the entire route and factor in increased fuel consumption due to air conditioning or difficult road conditions.

The political situation in Namibia is generally considered stable; however, it is recommended to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and to follow the instructions of local security forces. With regard to crime, authorities report property crimes throughout the country, particularly in Windhoek and in remote areas. There have been reports of attacks on travelers by perpetrators, some of whom are armed, and tourist accommodations and campgrounds may also be specifically targeted. In Windhoek, robberies occur primarily on Sundays and holidays, for example along popular walking paths on the outskirts of the city, but also in the city center.

Particular caution is advised after picking up a rental car at the airport: There have been cases in which travelers were followed to their accommodations and tricked into stopping by false claims of technical problems, only to be robbed—in some cases even by vehicles bearing government license plates. Taxi rides with passengers already in the vehicle also carry an increased risk. Travelers are often targeted because they carry valuables such as camera equipment, and credit card fraud is also more common.

For practical travel planning, it is recommended to go for walks—even in downtown Windhoek—without valuables, camera equipment, or large bags whenever possible, and to avoid walking after dark. Overnight stays should only take place in guarded accommodations or at officially registered, guarded campgrounds. When traveling within the country, it is advisable to always lock vehicle doors, keep valuables out of sight, and stop only at busy gas stations or rest areas. Important documents such as your passport, visa, and driver’s license should be kept in a safe place—copies or digital photos of these documents will make it much easier to obtain replacements in case of loss.

Anyone planning a trip to Namibia should also clarify entry requirements well in advance. For most purposes of stay—whether for tourism, business, or work—the necessary documents can be easily arranged in advance. We’ll handle the application process for the appropriate visa on your behalf, such as the tourist visa for Namibia for vacation trips or the e-visa for Namibia, which allows you to apply digitally without visiting an embassy. This allows you to focus entirely on practical preparations before your trip begins, such as ensuring sufficient fuel reserves, securing safe accommodations, and planning your route carefully.

In addition to the safety guidelines mentioned above, it’s important to remember that conditions on the ground can change quickly. Travelers should therefore stay informed about current developments before departure, purchase adequate travel health insurance, and keep an eye on news and weather reports throughout their trip. Those who take care of visas, travel insurance, and safety precautions well in advance can enjoy Namibia’s diverse natural landscapes—from the Etosha Pan to the Namib Desert—in a much more relaxed manner.