Health Information

Namibia Health & Vaccinations

Everything you need to know about staying healthy during your trip to Namibia. Vaccinations, malaria prevention, healthcare, and essential health tips.

Malaria Risk

Yes - Take Precautions

Tap Water

Safe

Healthcare Quality

Good private healthcare in Windhoek. Limited facilities in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.

Required Vaccines

1

Vaccinations

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever

    Required only if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus
  • Rabies (if visiting remote areas)

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in Namibia. Take preventive measures seriously.

High-Risk Areas

  • Caprivi Strip (Zambezi Region)
  • Kavango East and West
  • Northern border areas

Low-Risk Areas

  • Windhoek
  • Swakopmund
  • Southern Namibia
  • Sossusvlei
  • Fish River Canyon

Common Antimalarial Medications

MalaroneDoxycycline

Consult your doctor to choose the right medication for you. Start taking it before arrival as directed.

Prevention Tips

  • Use DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30% DEET)
  • Sleep under mosquito nets (treated nets are best)
  • Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk
  • Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms
  • Take antimalarial medication as prescribed

Water & Food Safety

Tap Water

Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities of Namibia.

Food Safety Tips

  • Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover
  • Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless you trust the source
  • Eat fruits you can peel yourself
  • Ensure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked
  • Carry hand sanitizer and use before eating

Healthcare in Namibia

Good private healthcare in Windhoek. Limited facilities in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.

Healthcare Quality

Private hospitals in major cities offer good care and are recommended for tourists. Public hospitals may have long waits and limited resources.

Recommendation: Get comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Namibia. Healthcare costs can be expensive, and medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Medical Coverage

Minimum $100,000 recommended

Medical Evacuation

Essential for remote safari areas

Trip Cancellation

Protects your investment

Health Essentials to Pack

DEET insect repellent (30%+)
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Antimalarial tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhea medication
Pain relievers
Hand sanitizer
Water purification tablets
Mosquito net (if camping)
Medical documentation

Emergency Contacts

Emergency/Ambulance

211111

Police

10111

Fire

211111

Tourist Police

+264 61 209 4111

Related Guides

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