🛣️ Types of Roads You’ll Encounter
1. Tarred Roads
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Found between major cities: Windhoek, Swakopmund, Otjiwarongo, and parts of the road to Etosha.
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Smooth, easy, and comfortable.
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Watch out for speed traps near towns—strict enforcement!
2. Gravel Roads (C & D-Class Roads)
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Most common in Namibia—thousands of kilometers of it.
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Can vary from smooth to severely corrugated.
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Loose gravel makes high speeds dangerous—keep it under 80 km/h.
3. Sand Roads and Tracks
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Found in areas like Sossusvlei, Skeleton Coast, and remote northwestern regions.
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Can be deep, soft, and tricky to navigate.
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Always deflate tyres slightly before driving on sand and keep momentum steady.
⚠️ Common Road Hazards
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Corrugation (washboarding): Can shake your car and loosen bolts—slow down or change tire pressure slightly.
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Potholes & washouts: Especially after rain. Avoid driving during/after heavy downpours.
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Sharp rocks: Increase the risk of punctures—especially near Damaraland.
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Wildlife & Livestock: Kudus, warthogs, and goats love road crossings—drive cautiously near dawn/dusk.
🧯 Safety & Emergency Tips
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Always carry extra water, a spare tyre (or two), and a first-aid kit.
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Cell signal is unreliable—offline maps and a GPS are essential.
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If you break down, stay with your vehicle and wait for help. Walking is extremely risky in remote areas.
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Let your lodge or host know your ETA, especially if traveling far.
🧭 Driving Best Practices
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Slow is safe. Many rollovers happen when tourists drive too fast on gravel.
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Hands on the wheel. Always keep both hands on—gravel can pull unexpectedly.
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Use headlights during the day to be more visible in dusty conditions.
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Avoid sharp braking or sudden swerves—you’ll lose traction fast.
🚙 Final Tip:
Gravel and sand driving is part of the Namibian adventure—it’s what takes you to the country’s most magical places. Just take it slow, stay alert, and respect the terrain. The journey is as much a part of the trip as the destination.