Namibia, a country in Southern Africa, is a land of vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Here’s a breakdown of key information about Namibia:

• Area: Namibia spans approximately $824,268 \text{ km}^2$.
• Population: The total current population for Namibia in 2025 is estimated at around 2,690,284.
• Capital: Windhoek is the capital and largest city.
• Major Cities: Besides Windhoek, other significant cities include Rundu, Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, and Oshakati.
• Language: The official language of Namibia is English. However, many local terms have been adopted, leading to a hybrid language often referred to as “Namlish.”
• Currency: The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is the official currency.
• Religion: The majority of Namibians are Christian, with a significant proportion being Protestant (especially Lutheran). There’s also a Roman Catholic community and a smaller number of people practicing traditional African religions, Islam, Buddhism, and other faiths.
• Attractions: Namibia boasts a wide array of attractions, often centered around its stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. Some of the most popular include:
  • Sossusvlei (Namib-Naukluft National Park): Famous for its iconic red dunes, including Deadvlei, Big Daddy Dune, Dune 45, and Sesriem Canyon.
  • Etosha National Park: A premier safari destination, known for its vast salt pan and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially around waterholes.
  • Fish River Canyon: The second-largest canyon in the world, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
  • Damaraland and Kaokoland (Kunene Region): Known for their unique desert-adapted wildlife (like desert elephants), dramatic geological formations, and ancient rock art (e.g., Brandberg and Twyfelfontein).
  • Caprivi Strip (Zambezi Region): A lush and green area that contrasts with the typical desert landscape, offering different wildlife experiences.
  • Spitzkoppe, Erongo Mountains, and Vingerklip: Scenic highlights with fascinating geological features.
  • Lüderitz: A coastal town with a unique colonial history and nearby ghost towns like Kolmanskop.
• Architecture: Namibia’s architecture often reflects its German colonial past, particularly in cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund, with buildings like the Alte Feste and Tintenpalast (Parliament Building). Modern architecture is also emerging.
• Roads: Roads in Namibia are generally well-maintained, but many rural roads are unpaved gravel. Driving is on the left-hand side. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially for off-grid destinations and gravel roads. Speed limits are 120 km/h on tarred roads and officially 100 km/h on gravel roads, though 80 km/h is recommended for safety. Wildlife wandering onto roads, especially at night, is a significant hazard.
• Hotels & Accommodation: Namibia offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to guesthouses and self-catering units. Popular areas for hotels include Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, and within or near national parks like Etosha and Namib-Naukluft.
• Restaurants & Cuisine: Namibian cuisine is heavily meat-based, featuring a wide variety of game meats like oryx, kudu, springbok, and even zebra, often prepared grilled (braai).
  • Popular dishes and ingredients:
    • Braai: Barbecue, a central part of Namibian social life.
    • Game Meats: Ostrich, kudu, oryx, springbok are commonly found on menus.
    • Potjiekos: A traditional stew cooked in a three-legged cast-iron pot over an open fire.
    • Kapana: Grilled meat, often sold by street vendors.
    • Oshifima: A staple porridge made from millet or maize flour.
    • Biltong and Droëwors: Dried, cured meats, similar to jerky.
  • Restaurant Scene: In Windhoek, you’ll find a growing restaurant scene with options ranging from upscale international dining to traditional Namibian and German eateries. Joe’s Beerhouse is a famous institution known for its rustic atmosphere and hearty portions. Other notable places include The Stellenbosch Wine Bar & Bistro for contemporary international cuisine and Leo’s at the Castle for fine dining with panoramic views. Coastal towns like Swakopmund and Walvis Bay offer excellent seafood.