Is cash still widely used?
Moderately. Windhoek has good card acceptance at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Along the tourist circuit (Etosha, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund), lodges and some petrol stations accept cards. Remote areas and local markets require cash.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Windhoek, Swakopmund, and larger towns. First National Bank and Standard Bank machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 30 NAD per withdrawal for foreign cards
- South African rand is also accepted at par throughout Namibia
- Withdraw cash in Windhoek or Swakopmund before remote drives
Card acceptance
Moderate. Tourist lodges, hotels, and larger businesses accept cards. Petrol stations along major routes increasingly accept cards. Remote farms and community campsites require cash.
Tips for travelers
- South African rand is accepted everywhere alongside Namibian dollars
- Namibia is a self-drive paradise — petrol cash backup is wise
- Etosha lodges accept cards; community campsites need cash
- Tipping 10% is expected in restaurants and for guides