Speed Limits & Road Safety

• Urban areas: 60 km/h

• Surfaced roads (outside towns): 120 km/h

• Gravel roads (outside towns): 100 km/h *(recommended to drive 60–80 km/h for better control)*

Gravel roads can be unpredictable—reduce speed to avoid losing control. Be cautious of:

• Drivers overtaking unexpectedly

• Strong crosswinds

• Dust storms that may reduce visibility

Key Driving Rules in Namibia

• Drive on the left side of the road.

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers (front and back).

• Always use headlights, even during the day.

• Carry a valid driver’s license when operating a vehicle.

 Vehicle Preparation & Essentials

Before setting off, ensure:

• Brakes and tyres are in good condition.

• Tyres are properly inflated for road conditions and vehicle load.

• Carry at least one spare tyre (two spares + a repair kit for remote areas).

• A well-equipped first aid kit is in the vehicle.

For remote areas, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Trip Planning & Fuel

• Plan your route carefully and ensure enough fuel for the journey.

• Refuel at every opportunity—gas stations can be scarce in remote regions.

• Carry sufficient water for all passengers in case of breakdowns.

• Share your itinerary with your hotel, tour operator, or friends for safety.

Wildlife & Night Driving

• Animals frequently cross roads—stay alert, especially at dusk and dawn.

• Avoid driving at night—wildlife activity increases collision risks.

• In game reserves:

  • Follow park safety guidelines.

  • Never exit your vehicle near wild animals.

  • Observe animals only from inside your car.

Respect & Environmental Care

• Dispose of litter responsibly.

• Respect local communities and cultures, especially in rural areas.

Rainy Season Precautions

• Beware of flooded roads and rivers.

• Never drive through water if depth is uncertain.

General Safety Tips

• Secure valuables—don’t leave them visible in your car or hotel room.

• Lock your hotel room when entering or leaving.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

• Do not pick up hitchhikers.

• Keep cameras and jewelry discreet to avoid attracting attention.

Driving on Gravel Roads

Gravel roads can be deceptive—what seems smooth can suddenly turn treacherous. Follow these guidelines:

• Never exceed 80 km/h—hidden potholes, rocks, deep sand, or animals can appear without warning.

• Watch for animals—both wild and domestic animals may dart across the road unexpectedly.

• Beware of dust clouds from oncoming or overtaking vehicles—they can drastically reduce visibility.

• Turn on headlights to improve visibility.

• Slow down or pull over until the dust settles if necessary.

Driving on Sand

Sand driving demands constant attention—conditions change quickly. Here’s how to stay in control:

• Engage 4WD before entering sand and test different gears to see how your vehicle responds.

• Keep both hands on the wheel—sand can shift suddenly, requiring quick corrections.

• Slow down before rough patches—shift to a lower gear before hitting deep sand, but never stop mid-track.

• Lower tyre pressure (if driving in deep sand) to increase traction.

• Corrugated sand tracks? Reduce speed to avoid discomfort, vehicle damage, or injuries from bouncing.

If You Get Stuck in Sand:

• Dig around the wheels and place traction aids (mats, branches) under them.

• No trees for a winch? Try this bush trick:

• Dig a hole, place your spare wheel inside, and hook a wrench to it.

• Bury the wheel partially—this creates an anchor point to pull yourself free.

Driving in Mud

4WD doesn’t make you invincible—mud can be far trickier than sand.

• Avoid "black cotton soil" (common in rainy seasons)—it traps vehicles axle-deep.

• Test muddy patches on foot first—the surface may seem dry but hide slippery mud underneath.

• If stuck:

  • Dig out mud from under the wheels.

  • Use logs, branches, or recovery tracks for traction.

  • Jack up the vehicle (carefully!) to place more support underneath.

Driving on Pans (Salt Flats & Dry Lakes)

Pans can be dangerously deceptive:

• Stick to existing tracks—the surface may look dry but hide deep mud underneath.

• Stay near shorelines if no clear path exists.

Driving in Parks & Reserves

Remember: You are in the animals’ territory.

• Keep a safe distance—never harass or approach wildlife.

• Stay in your vehicle unless at designated safe spots.

• Off-road driving is prohibited—stick to marked trails.

Final Tips for Safe 4x4 Adventures

✔ Always carry recovery gear (shovel, tow straps, jack, spare tyre).
✔ Travel with extra fuel, water, and supplies—remote areas have few services.
✔ Respect the environment—avoid littering and follow local regulations