Is my French driving licence (Permis B) sufficient to drive in Namibia?
Officially, your French driving licence is valid if it includes a photo and is printed in English. However, as the standard French licence (pink paper or card format) is only in French, it is therefore mandatory to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before departure. You must always carry your original French licence and the IDP with you when driving.
Why is the International Driving Permit (IDP) so important?
The IDP is a certified translation of your French licence into several languages, including English. Even if the rental company sometimes accepts the French licence alone, the police at roadside checks (frequent in Namibia) will almost always require the IDP. In case of an accident, the insurance may refuse any compensation if you cannot present the IDP together with your French licence. It is therefore essential for legal and insurance protection.
Which documents do I need to present for online booking and for vehicle pick-up?
For online booking, usually your name and payment details are sufficient. For pick-up in Namibia, you will need: your original passport, your original French driving licence, your International Driving Permit (IDP), and the credit card used for the booking (in the main driver’s name, with a sufficient limit for the security deposit).
How can I book my car? Is it safe to use an online comparison platform?
Using a reputable booking platform is an excellent way to compare vehicle types, equipment and prices from different rental companies. We recommend using QEEQ to get a reliable and comprehensive overview of the options, filter for 4x4s, see which equipment is included and make a secure booking. This simplifies the process and often provides competitive rates.
What do the insurance terms “CDW” and “SCDW” mean?
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is the basic insurance included in the rental, limiting your financial liability to a high excess (often several thousand euros). SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) is an optional extra that significantly reduces or even cancels the excess. It is more expensive per day but offers greater peace of mind.
What is generally excluded from standard insurance, even SCDW?
Standard insurance (CDW and SCDW) almost always excludes damage to tyres, windscreen and the vehicle’s underbody. However, punctures and windscreen chips are very common on Namibian gravel roads. It is therefore crucial to check whether the insurance includes “tyres & glass” cover. Rollovers alone (single-vehicle accidents) are also often excluded.
Should I take “zero excess” insurance? Is it worth the cost?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. Repairs to a 4x4 in Namibia are very expensive. A minor incident can exceed €1,000. Paying a daily supplement for “zero excess” insurance that also covers tyres and windscreen allows you to avoid financial stress and fully enjoy your trip.
What about the security deposit? How much is it and how is it taken?
The rental company makes a pre-authorisation (hold) on your credit card when you pick up the vehicle. This is not a charge but a reserved amount on your limit. The amount varies from €1,500 to over €5,000 depending on the vehicle and insurance level. It is released when the vehicle is returned without damage. Check that your card has a sufficient limit.
Can I add an additional driver? What are the conditions?
Yes, it is possible (and advisable for long distances) to add one or two additional drivers. Each additional driver must be present at pick-up and provide the same documents as the main driver (passport, licence, IDP). A small daily surcharge is usually applied per additional driver.
Are there age restrictions for renting a 4x4 in Namibia?
Yes. Most rental companies require a minimum age of 23 or 25 to rent a 4x4. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a “young driver surcharge” and are sometimes excluded from certain insurance options. Always check the company’s age policy before booking.
What happens when I arrive at Windhoek Airport (WDH)?
After immigration formalities and baggage claim, you enter the arrivals hall. Most rental companies have a counter directly in the terminal. If your company is off-site, a representative will be waiting for you with a sign showing your name and will drive you to their depot (a 5 to 10 minute shuttle ride).
How long does the vehicle pick-up process take?
Be prepared to wait. Picking up a 4x4 takes much longer than picking up a regular car in Europe: allow between 1 hour and 2.5 hours. This includes paperwork, a thorough inspection and a detailed briefing on the 4x4 and camping equipment. Do not rush this step; it is essential for your safety.
What specific points should I check on the vehicle before leaving the rental station?
Inspect carefully:
- Tyres: condition, tread depth, sidewalls, including both spare wheels.
- Bodywork: record all scratches, dents and chips on the contract.
- Windscreen: note any existing micro-chips.
- Equipment: check that the jack, compressor and camping gear are present and working.
- Underbody: look underneath the vehicle for leaks or loose parts.
What is a vehicle handover and what should I pay attention to?
The vehicle handover is when the agent explains how the 4x4 and the equipment work. Pay close attention to:
- How to engage 4x4 modes (4H, 4L).
- Use of the dual-battery system and fridge.
- How to set up and pack away the roof tent.
- Wheel changing procedure.
- Recommended tyre pressures for each road type.
Ask all the questions you need until you feel completely comfortable.
How do I properly check the tyres?
Do not just glance at them. Kneel down to check the tread and inner/outer sidewalls of all 6 tyres (4 on the vehicle + 2 spares). Run your hand over them to detect bulges or cuts. Ask for the age of the tyres (date on the sidewall). Refuse any tyre that is worn, damaged or over-repaired.
Should I take photos or videos of the car before leaving?
Yes, absolutely. After noting existing damage with the agent, take your own detailed photos and a time-stamped panoramic video with your smartphone. This evidence is invaluable in case of a dispute at return.
Will the rental staff speak French? What if there is a language barrier?
The official language in Namibia is English. Tourism staff speak it fluently, but French speakers are rare. Speak clearly in English, and use a translation app on your phone if needed. The handover is very visual, and demonstrations usually help to clear up misunderstandings.
What key questions should I ask the rental agent?
Before leaving, make sure you know:
- The 24/7 emergency number in case of breakdown or accident (save it in your phone).
- The procedure in case of a puncture (repair or replacement?).
- Recommended tyre pressures on tarmac and gravel.
- Fuel type (most often diesel).
- Any specific features or known issues with this vehicle.
Will the car have a full tank of fuel?
Yes, the standard policy is to provide the vehicle with a full tank. You must also return it full. Check the fuel gauge before leaving the rental station. Your first stop after Windhoek should be a fuel station to top up and buy supplies.
How does specific equipment like the roof tent or fridge work?
Ask for a full demonstration. Have them open and close the roof tent and show you how to switch on the fridge and set the temperature. Make sure you understand how the dual-battery system works (the fridge should run off the secondary battery). Do not leave until you are comfortable using all the equipment.
What is the biggest challenge when driving in Namibia?
Gravel roads (locally called “pistes”): wide, often corrugated (“washboard”), covered with gravel or stones. The main danger is overconfidence leading to excessive speed: losing control on loose gravel or hitting a pothole can cause a serious accident (rollover).
How can I drive safely on gravel roads?
- Speed: never exceed 80 km/h, even if the road looks good. On very corrugated or winding sections, reduce to 60 km/h or less.
- Steering: keep both hands on the wheel; avoid sudden movements or hard braking.
- Corners: slow down before entering a bend, never in the middle of it.
- Dust: keep your distance to avoid dust clouds that reduce visibility.
What is the rule for driving on the left? Any tips for a French driver?
In Namibia you drive on the left and overtake on the right. The steering wheel is on the right. Repeat out loud “keep left”, especially when leaving car parks or junctions. At roundabouts, give way to the right. Your passenger can help check to the right and remind you to stay on the left. Spend a few minutes practising in the car park before heading out.
What are the speed limits? Are they enforced?
- Paved roads (B-roads): 120 km/h
- Gravel roads (C and D-roads): 80 km/h (a limit, not a target)
- Towns and villages: 60 km/h
- National parks: 60 km/h or as signposted
Speed checks are frequent (mobile speed cameras, roadblocks). Fines are paid on the spot.
Is it safe to drive at night?
No, absolutely not. Never drive between sunset and sunrise. Reasons:
1. Wildlife (kudu, giraffes, elephants) are active at dawn/dusk and invisible on unlit roads – collisions are often fatal.
2. Obstacles (potholes, rocks) are invisible at night.
3. Higher risk of crime (carjacking, theft) around towns. Plan to arrive at your destination at least 1 hour before dark.
How do I find fuel stations? Do they accept credit cards?
Fuel stations are available in all towns but can be 200–300 km apart in rural areas. Fill up whenever you see a station, even at half a tank. Do not rely on bank cards: only some urban stations accept them; most rural stations are cash only. Always carry enough Namibian dollars to fill up.
What should I do if I encounter wildlife on the road, especially in Etosha?
In parks, animals always have priority. Stop at a distance, do not honk or rev the engine. Switch off the engine and enjoy the sighting. Be especially careful with elephants: never drive between a mother and her calf. If an elephant is agitated, reverse away calmly. On public roads, slow down and be ready to stop.
What about tyre pressure? Should I adjust it?
Yes, this is a key technique:
- On paved roads: follow the recommended pressure (e.g. 2.2–2.4 bar).
- On gravel: reduce pressure by 15–20% (e.g. 1.8–2.0 bar) to improve grip and comfort on corrugations and reduce the risk of punctures.
- Inflate back to normal pressure as soon as you return to tarmac, otherwise there is a risk of accident.
Is it safe to leave belongings in the car?
Be cautious, as everywhere. While driving, keep luggage and valuables out of sight (on the floor or in the boot). In towns (Windhoek, Swakopmund), do not leave anything visible in a parked car. Use a secure car park if possible. At lodges or campsites it is generally safe, but it is still better to hide passports and cameras.
How do I navigate? GPS, Google Maps or paper maps?
Use a combination of tools:
- Google Maps/Waze: ideal in towns and on paved roads (remember to download offline maps).
- Tracks4Africa (T4A): the reference for navigating gravel and remote roads (available as a GPS map or smartphone app, much more reliable than Google off the main routes).
- A recent paper map: essential as a backup and for planning.
What is the most common breakdown in Namibia?
Punctures are by far the most frequent issue, due to sharp stones on gravel roads. Expect at least one puncture during your trip – it is not a sign of bad driving; it is simply the reality of road travel in Namibia.
What should I do if I get a flat tyre?
1. Stop safely on stable ground off the roadway.
2. Turn on hazard lights and place the warning triangle.
3. Take out the jack, wheel brace and a spare wheel.
4. If you are unsure, signal another vehicle: Namibians and fellow travellers are very helpful.
5. Once the wheel is changed, drive carefully to the next town and have the punctured tyre repaired immediately so you have two spare wheels again.
Why is it so important to have two spare tyres?
Distances are huge: you may have one puncture, continue driving and then get a second one 100 km later, while the nearest town is 150 km away. Having two spare wheels prevents a minor incident from ruining your entire trip – it is a vital safety measure.
Who should I call in case of mechanical breakdown or accident?
First call the 24/7 emergency number provided by your rental company (shown on the contract or on the windscreen). They will organise assistance (mechanic, tow truck). In case of a serious accident with injuries, dial 112 from a mobile phone.
How does roadside assistance work in such a vast country?
Be prepared to wait a long time: depending on where you break down, assistance may take several hours or even a full day to arrive. This is why self-sufficiency is so important: always carry at least 5 litres of water per person, food, a charged phone or satellite messenger. Always stay with the vehicle.
What is the procedure in case of minor damage (cracked windscreen, etc.)?
Notify your rental company immediately (by phone or email). They will tell you what to do. In general, you can continue your journey and the report and billing will be handled when you return the vehicle. This is why having “zero excess” insurance including glass cover is very useful.
How does vehicle return work at the end of the trip?
Return works like pick-up but in reverse. Bring the vehicle back to the rental station. An agent will thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s condition (comparing it with the form and your photos), check the fuel level (must be full), the equipment and any damage. Allow 45 to 60 minutes for this step.
What do they check during the return inspection?
Everything, but especially:
- New scratches or dents on the bodywork.
- Chips or cracks on the windscreen and windows.
- Condition of all tyres, including spare wheels (if a wheel has been changed, they will check its quality).
- Presence and condition of all equipment (fridge, compressor, etc.).
- Underbody for signs of impact.
When will my security deposit be released?
If the vehicle is returned clean, full of fuel and without damage, the pre-authorisation on your card is usually released within 7 to 14 working days. The exact time depends on your bank’s processing time.
Can I return the car to a different location (for example, Kasane in Botswana)?
Yes, one-way rentals are possible but must be arranged in advance and involve significant fees. For example, picking up the vehicle in Windhoek and returning it in Kasane (to visit Chobe/Victoria Falls) is common but expensive, as the rental company has to repatriate the vehicle to Namibia (a trip of several days).
