Starting April 1, 2025, US citizens traveling to Namibia will need a visa before entry. The Namibian government introduced this requirement to streamline immigration procedures and enhance border security.
The US Embassy in Windhoek has advised American tourists to apply in advance through Namibia’s online visa-on-arrival portal at eservices. Travelers using this system must carry a printed copy of their approval notice when traveling.
Alternatively, visitors arriving at Windhoek or Walvis Bay airports, as well as key border crossings such as Katima Mulilo and Ngoma, will have the option to purchase a tourist visa upon arrival. However, since Namibia’s visa-on-arrival system is relatively new, details regarding its implementation may change.
Namibia is a top destination for ecotourism, known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. The country boasts several natural attractions, including Etosha National Park, a premier wildlife reserve centered around the expansive Etosha Pan. The Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert, features towering dunes and unique plant life, such as the ancient Welwitschia plant. The Skeleton Coast is a remote and strikingly beautiful coastline famous for its shipwrecks and seal colonies. Damaraland, with its rugged terrain, offers opportunities to see desert-adapted elephants and ancient rock engravings.
Tourism is a vital part of Namibia’s economy, contributing approximately N$7.2 billion ($390 million) to the country’s gross domestic product. By December 2024, Namibia’s tourism sector had demonstrated strong growth, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The national room occupancy rate reached 54.48% for the year, an increase of nearly 3% from 2023 and 1% higher than in 2019, before the global pandemic disrupted travel.
While specific data for international tourist arrivals and tourism revenue in 2024 is still pending, trends from 2023 indicate continued recovery and expansion. In 2023, Namibia welcomed approximately 863,872 international visitors, reflecting an 87.4% increase compared to 2022. That year, the tourism sector contributed 6.9% to Namibia’s GDP, generating $348 million in international tourism receipts.
Visa policies for US citizens vary across African countries. Some nations allow visa-free entry, while others offer visas on arrival or require prior application. Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal permit US tourists to enter without a visa for short stays. Tanzania and Zambia allow visas on arrival, though it is advisable to check current requirements before traveling. Countries such as Ghana and Nigeria require US travelers to obtain a visa before arrival.
Since visa policies can change, travelers should verify entry requirements for their destination well in advance of their trip.