The risk of picking up MALARIA while visiting Namibia can be greatly reduced by taking some precautions. But anti-malarial medication must usually be started BEFORE you reach the malarial area. Check out this link to MALARIA.

DRIVING can be hazardous, especially if you are not used to driving ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD as is done in Namibia. Even WALKERS must take care to FIRST LOOK TO THE RIGHT to check for oncoming traffic before crossing the road.

Many of Namibia's GRAVEL ROADS are well maintained and permit access to remote areas, even using a sedan or other light vehicle. However, high speed driving on a gravel road, especially in a (rental) vehicle which is likely to handle/respond differently from one's accustomed car, can be a very dangerous combination.

DRINKING WATER Piped water in cities and towns is treated and is safe to drink. But even if the water is biologically safe to drink, tourists may prefer to purchase bottled (Namibian or imported, still or sparkling) mineral water, which is widely available at shops and restaurants throughout the country.

The hot, very dry climate can lead to quick dehydration. Visitors are likely to find they need to increase their water intake a good deal.

ALTITUDE Much of Namibia is located at an altitude higher (above a mile - 1.6 km) than visitors may be used to. The effects of the thinner air (less oxygen available for each breath) of such an altitude may be noticed by visitors. Taking time for your body to adjust to the altitude - by avoiding strenouous activities upon first arrival - is a prudent health precaution.

SUN + ALTITUDE + LOW HUMIDITY mean that the use of a SUN SCREEN ointment or creme and MOISTURIZER are excellent preventative measures for visitors who are not accusotomed to the intense effect of the sun's rays and very low humidity found throughout Namibia.

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS are at least as common in Namibia as they are elsewhere. Visitors should take precautions against acquiring or spreading STIs.