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Digital Nomad Guide to Namibia | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Windhoek, Namibia

Digital Nomad Life in Namibia

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Namibia is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Namibia are Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay. Digital nomads like living in Namibia because of its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and friendly locals. Namibia also offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. A digital nomad can live comfortably in Namibia on a monthly budget of around $1,500 USD. The culture of Namibia is a mix of African, German, and Dutch influences. The country is known for its vibrant music and art scene, as well as its traditional crafts and cuisine. Popular foods in Namibia include braai (barbecue), potjiekos (a stew cooked in a cast iron pot), and pap (a maize porridge). Seafood is also popular, as Namibia is located on the Atlantic coast.

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How do I meet people in Namibia?

When we asked people living in Namibia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Namibia often join clubs and activities such as the Windhoek International Club, which is a social club for expats and locals alike. Expats can also join the Namibia Expat Network, which is a group of expats who meet regularly to discuss their experiences in Namibia. Other activities that expats can join include sports clubs, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending church services, volunteering, or joining a local gym," explained one person living in Namibia.

What is life like in Namibia?

When we asked people living in Namibia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Namibia is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the desert to visiting the many national parks. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a good infrastructure, with reliable internet access and a variety of accommodation options. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's visa-free entry for many nationalities. All in all, Namibia is an ideal destination for those looking for an adventure," said one expat who made the move to Namibia.

Where should I live in Namibia?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Namibia is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Namibia Property, Namibia Rental, and Namibia Real Estate are great resources for finding rental properties in Namibia. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on classifieds websites such as Namibian Classifieds and Namibia Classifieds. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents in Namibia to help you find a place to live," said one expat in Namibia.

What do I need to know before moving to Namibia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Namibia, they said:

"Before retiring in Namibia, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than in other African countries. It is also important to research the availability of healthcare services and the quality of medical care. Additionally, expats should be aware of the climate and terrain of the country, as well as the local culture and customs. It is also important to research the visa and residency requirements for expats, as well as the cost of obtaining a visa. Finally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, and ensure that they are compliant with them," said one expat in Namibia.

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Namibia?

"Expats in Namibia appreciate the country's diverse culture, which is a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. They also appreciate the warm hospitality of the Namibian people, who are known for their friendliness and openness to visitors. Additionally, expats enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, with its vast deserts, mountains, and wildlife. Finally, expats appreciate the country's rich history and cultural heritage, which includes a variety of traditional music, art, and cuisine," said one person in Namibia.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Namibia?

"Expats in Namibia often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken outside of the major cities. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Namibia is a very conservative country, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more traditional values and attitudes. Furthermore, the cost of living in Namibia can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," said one person in Namibia.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Namibia for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Namibia for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit or a permanent residence permit. You may also need to apply for a visa, depending on your nationality," explained one person living in Namibia.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Namibia?

We asked people in Namibia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Namibia. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly. Avoid making negative comments about the country or its people, and be aware that public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to be respectful when speaking to locals," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Namibia.

What are healthcare services like in Namibia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Namibia, they replied:

"Namibia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Namibia is generally considered to be good, with a focus on preventative care and primary healthcare. Foreign residents in Namibia have access to the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Namibia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also choose to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," explained one digital nomad living in Namibia.

What are the pros and cons of living in Namibia?

"Expats and digital nomads in Namibia appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its vast deserts, rugged mountains, and wildlife-filled national parks. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. Additionally, Namibia is a safe and peaceful country, making it an ideal place to live and work. On the downside, expats and digital nomads may find the lack of infrastructure and public transportation in some areas of the country to be a challenge. Additionally, the country's remote location can make it difficult to stay connected with family and friends back home," explained one expat living in Namibia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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Contribute to Namibia Network Contribute
Help others in Namibia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Namibia.

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