Currency
Namibian Dollar (NAD) is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand. Both currencies are accepted everywhere in Namibia. Rand comes back as Rand or NAD — doesn't matter.
Cards
Visa and Mastercard work at lodges, supermarkets and main fuel stations. Amex is patchy. Contactless works in cities. Carry a backup card — skimming at rural fuel pumps does happen.
Cash
Carry NAD 2,000–3,000 in small notes for tips, rural fuel stations, park entry fees and roadside curio sellers. ATMs in Windhoek, Swakopmund, Otjiwarongo, Tsumeb.
Tipping (the rates locals expect)
Lodge staff: NAD 30–50 per person per day, dropped in the staff tip box (not individual). Guides: NAD 100 per day. Restaurants: 10%. Porters: NAD 20 per bag. Petrol attendants: NAD 5.
