General Travel Info 2
The Windhoek International Convention Centre is the central point for our exploration of Namibia and the greater geophysics community this year. Situated less than an hour’s drive from Hosea Kutako International Airport, the Convention Centre will accommodate our delegation to ensure maximal engagement during the formal proceedings. As the capital of Namibia, Windhoek is also a key centre for national government, academia and industry, with the event bringing together various demographics across numerous industry sectors.
Namibia has a world-renowned treasure-trove of geological sites, with a dynamic mineral exploration community who have been early adopters of geophysical technology. Due to its central location within the country, Windhoek is an ideal springboard for numerous exotic excursions in and around the country to appreciate the extensive natural and geological splendour which the region has on offer.
Justify Your Trip
Download and customise the letter to meet your needs, adding immediate problems you’ll be able to solve and long-term initiatives you’ll be able to implement. Click here for the ‘Justify Your Trip’ letter.
Visa Information
When planning to attend the SAGA Conference in South Africa, the following must be taken into consideration when applying for a visa.
- You must have an international return ticket to Namibia.
- You must have paid your registration fee and accommodation in full.
- Proof of payment must be sent through to the organisers of the conference. Once received we will issue you with a ‘letter of invitation’, which you will need in order to get your visa.
- To enter Namibia you will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you form part of the High-risk countries. Visit this website for more detail.
Requirements for visitors’ visas differ from country to country (click here to see which countries are currently exempt), and the requirements are subject to change.
Kindly note: The passport should be valid for a period of not less than 6 months from the date of arrival and there should be enough pages for endorsement of visas, at least 3 blank pages.
Please click here to visit the Namibian Home Affairs website. It will let you know exactly what is needed to apply for a visa. Alternatively, check with your travel agent.
Letter of Invitation
All delegates requiring a letter of invitation for business purposes can contact Kathy at info@sagaconference.co.za.
Internet Access
There is free wifi available throughout the common areas of the conference venue and hotels.
Plug Points
Namibia plug points are three-pin, rounded plugs (like those found in South Africa). Remember to bring along a universal adapter that you can use to charge your devices. Click here to see Namibian plug points.
Climate
The weather in Windhoek in October is very warm with a gentle breeze, with average highs of 90°F (32°C) and lows of 56°F (13°C). You may experience the occasional rain shower in October, however this can offer a welcome relief after several months of dry weather.
What To Pack
Windhoek is largely a casual to smart casual destination. Because October days are very warm, please ensure you have ample sun protection, including caps or hats and a high SPF lotion.
If you intend on doing pre or post conference safari events add warm jackets and long trousers, as well as closed shoes, socks, scarves and beanies.
Restaurants in Windhoek tend to be either smart-casual or semi-formal – men should wear long trousers, closed shoes (not trainers) and collared shirts (not T-shirts) with sports jackets but ties are not necessary.
Golfers are expected to wear standard golf wear (appropriate shoes and collared golf shirts).
Should you find you have forgotten to pack a specific item, there are a number of shopping malls a short taxi ride away.
So in summary, don’t forget the following:
- hat
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- international plug point adapters or South African plugs
- light and cool clothing for the days
- warm clothing for the evenings and early mornings
- for pre- or post-conference tours, don’t forget your binoculars, camera, and walking shoes
- any personal medication
Currency
The Namibia dollar has been the currency of Namibia since 1993. It is normally abbreviated with the dollar sign, or alternatively N$ to distinguish it from other currencies called “dollar.” It is divided into 100 cents. It is also acceptable to pay in South African Rand (ZAR) as they have the same exchange rate. For current exchange rates please visit http://www.xe.com/.
Please note the registration desk will only accept Namibian dollars or South African Rands. If you wish to change money, there are Bureau de Change at the airport on arrival.
