Driving Tips & Gas Stations
Left-Hand Traffic
Namibia has left-hand traffic (British system adopted via South Africa). The steering wheel is on the right, overtaking is on the right. The adjustment is quick on Namibia's empty roads — the only critical moment is turning at intersections.
⛽ Gas Stations — IMPORTANT!
The gas station network in Namibia is sparse. On main routes, there is a gas station every 100–200 km, in remote areas (Kaokoland, Skeleton Coast) it can be 300–400 km.
- Golden Rule: Fill up at EVERY gas station. Never drive with less than half a tank!
- Payment: Often cash only (NAD/ZAR). Credit cards are not accepted at some gas stations
- Attendants: Namibia has full service — an attendant fills the tank, cleans the windshield, and checks tire pressure. Tip: 5–10 NAD
- Spare Canister: On routes to Kaokoland or along the Skeleton Coast, be sure to take an extra 20 liters of diesel
Further Tips
- Tire Puncture: Common on gravel roads. Check the spare tire, know the jack and lug wrench. Many rental companies offer two spare tires — take both!
- Driving Times: Plan for about 50–60 km/h on gravel roads, 100–120 km/h on paved roads. Namibia is vast — daily stages of 300–500 km are normal
- Wildlife Crossing: Be especially careful at dusk! Kudus, oryx, and warthogs cross roads unpredictably. Never drive at night!
- Police Checks: Friendly and routine. Have your driver's license, vehicle documents, and passport ready
💡 Tipp
For the classic Namibia round trip (Windhoek–Sossusvlei–Swakopmund–Damaraland–Etosha–Windhoek), you should plan at least 2,500 km. With a 4×4 with an 80-liter tank and a consumption of 12–15 l/100 km, you will need about 5–6 fuel stops.
