This is obviously one of the questions we ask ourselves when we have to go abroad. What currency is used there, what money should I bring with me, where to change next, what budget should I plan on the spot, should we leave tips, etc. etc.? Questions to which we offer you the beginning of an answer here.
Today we will head towards southern Africa and Namibia to talk about money…
What currency for Namibia?
The Namibian dollar (N$) has been the country’s official currency since 1993, when it replaced the South African rand used while the country was under its mandate.
- Ideate: Namibian dollar (100 cents).
- Billets: N$10, 20, 50, 100 and 200.
- Pieces : 5, 10 and 50 cents + 1, 5 and 10 N$.
- Exchange rate : this is Here you are.
You should know that since its launch the Namibian dollar has been on par with the South African currency with 1 N$ = 1 R. Furthermore, the two currencies have legal value and circulate indifferently in the country (while the opposite is not true).
Exchange and payments
It is in the cities that you can exchange your money at banks and other exchange offices. Otherwise, as always, we can also opt for withdrawals with a bank card at ATMs, which is much simpler but feasible (with caution) compared to the main cities; distributors are still far from being present everywhere.
Keep in mind that if you own South African rands, there is no point in exchanging them as you can pay for everything with them in the same way as the Namibian dollar at the rate of 1:1.
Which currency to take?
Euros (like other major currencies) trade very well in Namibia. So if you want to bring some liquid with you, that’s ideal. For the rest, as already mentioned, no problems even with South African money.
Payment methods
Card payment is possible almost everywhere, without being systematic for everything. As always, however, be careful of bank fees if you make too many purchases or withdraw small sums.
However, it will also be in your best interest to plan your local currency liquidity (small denominations are welcome) as you move away from the cities.
On the way back
While you can exchange your remaining Namibian dollars upon departure, conversion rates are generally not favorable. The simplest thing is to change when you need it or if you (re)go through it.South Africa to use rands for the end of your stay.
Balance
Given the lack of public transport and the obligation to have a vehicle (“equipped campsite” preferably) or to use a service provider, traveling in Namibia requires a certain budget; and not to mention the cost of air travel to get there.
At best, and rather out of season, count on the equivalent of €80-90 per day and per person (based on two), eating locally and sleeping in a tent. Otherwise it will be well over €100 that you will have to spend to benefit more.
Which can be expensive
- Air access to the country.
- High season.
- Incidentally, some rental vehicles, especially if it is a 4×4.
Which might not cost much
- Local manger.
- Camping compared to other possible accommodation solutions.

Tips and bargaining
In Namibia it is customary to tip 10 to 15% of the bill in restaurants. Likewise, tips are left for guides and staff during safaris. Elsewhere the practice is not absolutely mandatory, although something will always be appreciated.
As far as bargaining is concerned, it is a not very widespread practice which is practiced above all in markets for the purchase of artisanal products.