- The best travel insurance plans for Namibia
- Is it currently safe to travel to Namibia?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Namibia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Namibia?
- Travel Insurance for Namibia: What It Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Namibia
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Namibia
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Namibia?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Namibia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Namibia covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance covering the entire duration of stay is mandatory for US citizens applying for an e-visa.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital night can exceed $500, excluding treatments or procedures.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Namibia typically costs between $40 and $80.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as quality healthcare is limited outside major cities.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Namibia.
The best travel insurance plans for Namibia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Comprehensive plan for Namibia’s remote areas. - high medical cover - medical evacuation - flexible for adventure travel |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Reliable for tourists traveling in Namibia. - 24/7 emergency support - strong medical protection - cancellation option |
| Tourist Card | $540K | Good value coverage for most visitors. - solid health protection - emergency help - clear claim process |
| Travel Pass Monde | $750K | Balanced policy ideal for exploring Namibia. - covers hospital costs - repatriation - broad guarantee package |
| Globe Partner | $325K | Solid option for long stays and basic care. - essential medical benefits - repatriation cover - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $540K | Accessible for short, low-risk trips. - rapid reimbursement - basic health cover - straightforward terms |
- high medical cover
- medical evacuation
- flexible for adventure travel
- 24/7 emergency support
- strong medical protection
- cancellation option
- solid health protection
- emergency help
- clear claim process
- covers hospital costs
- repatriation
- broad guarantee package
- essential medical benefits
- repatriation cover
- civil liability
- rapid reimbursement
- basic health cover
- straightforward terms
Is it currently safe to travel to Namibia?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Namibia, with rising risks noted for crime, health, and travel logistics.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: urban areas in Namibia, such as Windhoek, have seen an increase in theft, muggings, and “smash and grab” incidents. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables secure, especially in tourist districts and on main highways.
- Health risks: outside major cities, medical care is limited and may require up-front payment in cash for services. Malaria, hepatitis, typhoid, and yellow fever are prevalent, and medical evacuation can be difficult from Namibia’s remote parks and wilderness areas.
- Legal requirements: a tourist visa is now required for US citizens, and proof of travel insurance must be presented on arrival, alongside proof of sufficient funds and accommodation. Failure to comply can result in denied entry or delays at the border.
- Environmental hazards: Namibia’s remote roads are often poorly maintained and lack lighting, especially in rural regions like the Skeleton Coast. Road accidents are a leading cause of traveler injury, and emergency services may be slow to respond.
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Namibia. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Namibia?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for US citizens to enter Namibia.
Travelers must present proof of travel and medical insurance on arrival, regardless of visa status. The insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation for the full period of stay in Namibia. This requirement applies to all visitors as part of entry formalities at border crossings and airports.
Why take out travel insurance for Namibia?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Namibia.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Namibia.
Namibia has limited health facilities outside major cities, and foreigners often depend on private clinics like Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek, where fees must be paid upfront. Emergency care and ambulance services are scarce in remote areas, making costs unpredictable and high.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Namibia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | NAD 30,000 (USD 1,670) | Up to 100% of eligible expenses |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | NAD 22,000 (USD 1,220) | Up to 100% of eligible expenses |
| I need to be repatriated | NAD 380,000 (USD 21,000) | Up to 100% of eligible expenses |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | NAD 51,000 (USD 2,800) | Up to 100% of eligible expenses |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance for Namibia: What It Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, pharmacy in case of sickness or accident. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 for Namibia. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Covers air/ground ambulance to a better equipped hospital or back to US in an emergency. We recommend at least $150,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛏️ Hospitalization | Covers room, treatment, and medical care in private clinics. We recommend a minimum of $100,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💉 Emergency assistance | 24/7 assistance hotline for emergencies or to find clinics. Choose coverage with unlimited support. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🎒 Baggage & personal effects | Covers theft, loss, or delay of your luggage. Recommended minimum limit: $1,500 per trip. | 🟠 Recommended |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses prepaid travel costs if you must cancel or cut your trip short. Aim for at least $3,000 of coverage. | 🟠 Recommended |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Third-party damage or injury caused unintentionally. We recommend at least $100,000 per claim. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 📄 Civil documents/legal help | Legal assistance and replacement of lost travel documents. Useful in Namibia, limit of $2,000 minimum. | 🟡 Optional |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 for Namibia.
We recommend at least $150,000.
We recommend a minimum of $100,000.
Choose coverage with unlimited support.
Recommended minimum limit: $1,500 per trip.
Aim for at least $3,000 of coverage.
We recommend at least $100,000 per claim.
Useful in Namibia, limit of $2,000 minimum.
Important information
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical, hospitalization, and repatriation cover is a legal requirement for US tourists entering Namibia. The policy must be valid for the entire stay, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 for health care. Proof of insurance in English is required for visa-on-arrival and all short-term visits.
Insurance from local Namibian providers or basic credit card coverage is often limited, with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with full coverage. Find and compare the top offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Namibia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $48 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $66 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $97 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $185 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance is influenced by several key elements: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of coverage you select, and any add-ons like a cancellation option. Keeping these factors in mind is crucial for finding a policy that fits both your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Namibia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Namibia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical coverage | Medical care in Namibia is limited, and medical evacuation is very expensive and often necessary. | Select a plan with sufficient medical limits but avoid “top tier” unlimited packages if not required. |
| 💳 Deductible level | Choosing a higher deductible lowers premiums, while Namibia’s main risks are medical or evacuation. | Increase your deductible to lower costs, but balance this with how much you could afford to pay out-of-pocket. |
| 🌍 Duration of coverage | The longer your trip, the higher the total premium. Namibia’s highlights can usually be visited in less than a month. | Only insure the exact dates you are abroad. Avoid adding unnecessary buffer days before/after your trip. |
| 🧑 Traveller’s age | Age impacts the cost with almost all insurers, especially for travelers above 60. | Compare multiple insurers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which is an exception. |
| 👫 Number of travelers | Insuring as a couple/family can yield discounts and lowers per-person rates. | Check for “family” or “group” policies to obtain volume discounts rather than purchasing individually. |
| 🩺 Pre-existing medical conditions | Coverage may be limited or increase costs if declared, Namibia’s health system does not easily treat chronic illnesses. | Declare only serious chronic conditions. Compare plans with flexible wording or specific exclusions. |
| 💼 Activity coverage | High-risk sports or safari activities might not be covered or may substantially raise the premium. | Exclude adventure sports if not needed, or seek specific riders just for the days you need them. |
Important
Proof of travel/medical insurance is required for U.S. travelers to enter Namibia as of April 1, 2025. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, evacuation, repatriation, and is valid for all travel dates.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Namibia?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current coverage—like credit card insurance or your private health plan—can protect you during a trip to Namibia. Unfortunately, such coverage is often limited or not valid. For US travelers, travel insurance is required for entry to Namibia, as only it meets the embassy’s requirements.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Namibia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical care or evacuation abroad. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical emergencies and evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (UnitedHealthcare, Aetna) | Yes, partly | Emergency care sometimes reimbursed, but often max $2,500. Repatriation not included. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ incl. emergency evacuation and 24/7 support. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Simplicity, Capital One Platinum) | Yes, partly | Basic travel accident, limited coverage below $5,000, no evacuation or cash advances. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical and repatriation, trip and baggage issues. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical expenses up to $50,000–$100,000 only for emergencies, strict conditions. | Travel insurance includes trip cancellation ($5,000+) and support for local emergencies. |
Example
During a Namibian safari, Mark suffered a severe snakebite. The required air evacuation and anti-venom treatment cost $25,000. His Chase Sapphire card's insurance covered just $2,000, and his US health plan wouldn't pay for foreign medical transport, leaving him with a shocking $23,000 bill for the life-saving procedure.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Critical situations, like trip interruption for a relative's illness, may be excluded. Read the fine print carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Namibia?
Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen, a tourist visa is required to enter Namibia as of April 1, 2025. You can apply online in advance using Namibia’s official visa portal or obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Namibia?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review what each plan covers, noting any exclusions that may apply to travel in Namibia, such as emergency evacuation or adventure activities. Buy your chosen policy securely online. Once your order is confirmed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What should I look for in travel insurance for Namibia?
Choose a plan that covers at least $100,000 in emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation, as local facilities are limited. Make sure it includes coverage for trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, and delays. Check for 24/7 assistance so you can contact support in remote areas.
Will my U.S. health insurance cover me in Namibia?
Most U.S. health insurance plans do not provide coverage outside the United States, and Medicare is not accepted abroad. Even private insurance may only reimburse after you pay upfront. Comprehensive travel insurance covers overseas medical costs, emergency evacuation, and direct payment to local providers.
Are there any health precautions I should consider for Namibia?
Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies are strongly recommended. If you are arriving from a country with yellow fever, proof of vaccination is required. Malaria is present in some parts of Namibia, so consider anti-malarial medication and carry insect repellent. Medical care can be basic outside major cities.
What emergencies are covered by travel insurance in Namibia?
A good travel insurance plan covers medical emergencies, ambulance transport, hospital stays, prescriptions, and medical evacuation—often up to $500,000. It also covers non-medical situations such as trip cancellation, delays, and theft. Always read the policy to understand what is included and excluded for Namibia.
Do I need a visa to travel to Namibia?
Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen, a tourist visa is required to enter Namibia as of April 1, 2025. You can apply online in advance using Namibia’s official visa portal or obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Namibia?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review what each plan covers, noting any exclusions that may apply to travel in Namibia, such as emergency evacuation or adventure activities. Buy your chosen policy securely online. Once your order is confirmed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What should I look for in travel insurance for Namibia?
Choose a plan that covers at least $100,000 in emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation, as local facilities are limited. Make sure it includes coverage for trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, and delays. Check for 24/7 assistance so you can contact support in remote areas.
Will my U.S. health insurance cover me in Namibia?
Most U.S. health insurance plans do not provide coverage outside the United States, and Medicare is not accepted abroad. Even private insurance may only reimburse after you pay upfront. Comprehensive travel insurance covers overseas medical costs, emergency evacuation, and direct payment to local providers.
Are there any health precautions I should consider for Namibia?
Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies are strongly recommended. If you are arriving from a country with yellow fever, proof of vaccination is required. Malaria is present in some parts of Namibia, so consider anti-malarial medication and carry insect repellent. Medical care can be basic outside major cities.
What emergencies are covered by travel insurance in Namibia?
A good travel insurance plan covers medical emergencies, ambulance transport, hospital stays, prescriptions, and medical evacuation—often up to $500,000. It also covers non-medical situations such as trip cancellation, delays, and theft. Always read the policy to understand what is included and excluded for Namibia.
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