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 travellers 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.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Namibia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy 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 for Namibia?
Canadian Embassy in Namibia
Do I Need Vaccines for Namibia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Namibia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Namibia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- 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. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - 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. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Namibia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Namibia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| 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. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the PHAC.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travellers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection, is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention includes practicing safe behaviors, but the cornerstone of protection is hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine activates the immune system, generating antibodies that offer potent and enduring defense against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can lead to severe health issues. They are transmitted through respiratory droplets and close contact. The MMR vaccine, a safe and effective immunization, is recommended by the PHAC as the best way to prevent these diseases.
Malaria in Namibia
Malaria is most common in Kavango, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa and Zambezi. Cases are rare outside these regions. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travellers to Namibia. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
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.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Namibia
Prevent Bug Bites in Namibia
Guard against bug bites by wearing appropriate clothing and applying repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. When bitten, clean the area, resist scratching, and relieve itching with over-the-counter solutions. In severe cases, promptly seek medical assistance.
Food and Water Safety in Namibia
Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation. A travellers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Altitude Sickness in Namibia
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), arises at high elevations due to decreased oxygen levels. To prevent AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms like headaches or fatigue develop, descend to lower altitudes for rest and recovery, seeking medical help if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Namibia
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is caused by tick bites in sub-Saharan Africa. To prevent infection, wear long sleeves, use DEET-based repellents, and check for ticks regularly. Consult healthcare experts for advice if travelling to endemic regions.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The PHAC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand fly bites, can be prevented by adopting protective measures such as using insect repellents, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors when sand flies are active.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, caused by parasitic flatworms, is prevalent in areas with contaminated freshwater sources. Prevention involves staying out of potentially infected waters and using protective clothing. Recognizing symptoms such as fever and seeking medical help promptly is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Namibia?
Canadians planning to visit Namibia will need a visa to enter the country. You will also need a valid 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 Canadian Travel and Tourism
Travellers to Namibia must show proof of vaccination at entry or they will not be allowed into the country.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
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 30, and the average low is 15. 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 30, and can go as low as 15. 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 15 kilometres 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 pick-pocketing. 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
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Many tourists flock to Namibia to experience untouched, wild landscapes and animals. Ecotours are very popular among travellers. 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 Repellent – Since malaria is at risk in Namibia, be sure to pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will keep mosquitoes 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.
Canadian Embassy in Namibia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Namibia is served by the High Commission of Canada in South Africa:
High Commission of Canada in South Africa
1103 Arcadia Street
Hatfield, Pretoria, 0083, South Africa
Telephone: +27 12 422 3000
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Namibia
“The nurse was so knowledgeable regarding what we needed to know for going on our trip to Namibia; very personable and took thorough steps to ensure the prescriptions would not interact with his pre-existing condition.”
“I had a great experience at my Passport Health office. My nurse took time to explain all of the medications recommended for my trip to Namibia and then let me decide which ones I wanted to take without pressuring me. She was knowledgeable, friendly and made the process easy and simple. I would recommend Passport Health without any hesitation.”
“The nurse took his time to answer all of my questions. This is the first time that a Canadian healthcare provider answered my questions via email. I thought that I am in Beverly Hills and I am one of the celebrities. He is very knowledgeable, polite and kind . I strongly recommend this clinic. I really appreciate your sense of responsibility and support for my trip to Namibia.”
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