What do I need to know about driving in Namibia?

A self-drive safari is one of the best ways to explore Namibia's vast and scenic landscapes. With well-maintained roads and spectacular routes through remote deserts, canyons, and wildlife reserves, Namibia is ideal for adventurous road trips. Here’s what you need to know about driving conditions, fuel stops, and road safety.

• Urban areas: 60 km/h

• Gravel roads: Official limit is 100 km/h, but we strongly recommend a maximum of 80 km/h for safety due to road surface conditions.
• Tarred roads and highways: 120 km/h

Many of Namibia's secondary roads are unpaved gravel, so cautious driving is essential — particularly around bends, during sudden weather changes, or after rain.

Namibia is enormous — about 1.5 times the size of France — and travel between lodges often takes longer than expected. It's not just about the destination; it's about enjoying the journey through breathtaking scenery.

• Tarred roads: Estimate time by dividing distance by 80 km/h
• Gravel roads: Estimate time by dividing distance by 60 km/h, accounting for road conditions and short stops

This gives you the most accurate drive-time estimate for planning your itinerary.

• Most towns have fuel stations, often with basic convenience stores
• Fuel attendants will fill your tank, clean your windscreen, and check oil or tyre pressure — it's polite to tip
• Credit cards are accepted in larger towns, but not always in remote areas, so carry cash as backup
• Refuel frequently — some stations may run out of fuel, especially in isolated regions

For planning:

• Double cab fuel tank: 75 litres
• Fortuner SUV fuel tank: 80 litres
• Average fuel efficiency: 8 km/litre

Use a detailed Namibia map or GPS with marked fuel stops to avoid surprises on long, isolated stretches.

• Driving is on the left-hand side
• Both manual and automatic vehicles are available – confirm your preference when booking
• A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, particularly for gravel roads and off-grid destinations
• High ground clearance improves stability and safety
• Daytime headlights (on dipped beam) are legally required, even in daylight, on trunk, main, and district roads