Namibia

Brief History

Namibia's rich rail transport history began in the late 19th century during German colonial rule. The first railway, Cape Cross, opened in 1895, while the significant Staatsbahn line from Swakopmund to Windhoek was completed in 1902. Other important lines included the Otavibahn and Lüderitzbahn. After World War I, South Africa integrated the network into its system, converting gauges and expanding the network. Namibia regained control in 1990 through TransNamib. The rail network is crucial for the economy, connecting cities, ports, and borders, and contributing to various sectors. It also offers passenger services and supports Africa's rail integration vision. Namibia's railways reflect its history, culture, and natural beauty, embodying its identity and heritage.

General Information and Statistics

The main operator of Namibian rail passenger transport is TransNamib, a state-owned enterprise that provides rail service in Namibia. Based on information from the 2019-20 Integrated Annual Report, it can be estimated that Transnamib carried 31,633 passengers during this fiscal year.

Namibia has a rail network of 2,687 kilometers of tracks as of 2017. There are a total of 28 railway stations in Namibia

As of 2023, Namibia has no electrified railroad tracks. (0%)

What connections to other countries there are.

There is no international rail service in Namibia.
The only foreign tourist train that visits Namibia is the African Explorer, operated by Rovos Rail. However, this is not an international train service, as it does not carry passengers across borders. It is a luxury train that travels through scenic routes in Namibia and South Africa, offering vintage coaches, elegant suites, fine dining, and personalized service.

Are trains fast in Namibia in general? How much time to cross the country?

Train speeds in Namibia are generally slower than in other countries, with StarLine passenger trains averaging around 50 km/h and the luxurious Desert Express up to 80 km/h. Travel time depends on track conditions, stops and locomotive availability.  For example, the Windhoek-Swakopmund route is about 360 km and takes about 5-8 hours depending on the service. Travel from Windhoek to Katima Mulilo (1167 km by road) is by bus and train and takes about 12 hours with transfers.

What railway companies are available?

The state-owned TransNamib operates a 1067 mm gauge railroad, providing passenger and freight transportation, locomotive rental and maintenance services. D&M Rail Construction is a private company specializing in rail infrastructure and has undertaken significant projects for both the private sector and the Namibian government.

What train types are available in Namibia

The main train types that are available in Namibia are:

    • StarLine Passenger Trains: These are regional trains that connect Windhoek with other major towns along the rail network, such as Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Keetmanshoop, Tsumeb, Grootfontein, Oshikango, and Lüderitz. They offer economy and business class seats, with reclining features and air-conditioning.
    • Desert Express: This is a luxury train that runs between Windhoek and Swakopmund on weekends, offering spectacular views of the Namibian landscape and wildlife. It has comfortable sleeping compartments, a restaurant car, a lounge car, and a viewing platform. It also provides various travel options and activities for tourists who want to experience Namibia in a unique way.
    • African Explorer: This is a foreign tourist train that visits Namibia from South Africa, operated by Rovos Rail. It has vintage coaches, elegant suites, fine dining, and personalized service. It travels through scenic routes such as the Fish River Canyon, the Kalahari Desert, the Etosha National Park, and the Skeleton Coast.

Are there high-speed-trains available in Namibia?

No, there are no high-speed trains available in Namibia as of 2023. The fastest train in Namibia is the Desert Express, a luxury train that runs between Windhoek and Swakopmund on weekends, offering spectacular views of the Namibian landscape and wildlife . The Desert Express can reach up to 80 km/h, which is far below the international standard for high-speed trains, which is usually above 200 km/h.

Most important train stations / hubs in Namibia.

He most important train stations in Namibia are: Windhoek Railway Station, Swakopmund Railway Station, Tsumeb Railway Station.

Websites to buy train tickets for Namibia?

After being suspended for several years, the Desert Express resumed in June 2019.  However, it was suspended during the pandemic and is still not running in 2023.

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Namibia?

There are currently no mobile apps for buying rail tickets in Namibia.

Possible to buy a ticket at Namibia railway station?

Yes, it is possible to buy a ticket at Namibia railway station, but only for the Desert Express train service, which runs between Windhoek and Swakopmund. You can visit the station in person and purchase your ticket from the central reservations office. However, you may need to book in advance, as the Desert Express is a popular and limited service that only operates on selected days of the week.

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

You can call the central reservations at Windhoek on +264 (0) 61 298 2032 and book your ticket over the phone.

Return the ticket.

Desert Express has the following refund policy:
    • If you cancel your reservation more than 30 days prior to departure, you will receive a full refund.
    • If you cancel between 30 and 15 days prior to departure, 50% of the ticket price will be refunded.
    • If you cancel less than 15 days prior to departure, no refund will be given.

Train ticket prices

StarLine passenger trains are operated by the national railroad company TransNamib. They operate on three routes: Windhoek to Keetmanshoop, Windhoek to Oshikango and Windhoek to Walvis Bay. Fares vary by class and season, but are generally affordable. For example, a one-way ticket from Windhoek to Kietmanshoop costs between N$80 and N$130 (about US$4-7). However, as of early 2021, these trains have been suspended due to operational issues.

The Desert Express is a luxury train offering scenic tours between Windhoek and Swakopmund with stops at various attractions along the way. The train features comfortable cabins, a restaurant, bar and lounge. Fares include accommodation, meals, entertainment and transfers. Prices range from N$5,500 to N$7,500 (about $300-$400) per person for a round trip. Desert Express operates on certain dates and requires advance booking.

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service between Namibia and neighboring countries. The only international train that passes through Namibia is the Rovos Pride of Africa, a luxury train that makes the 9-day journey from Pretoria, South Africa to Wolfish Bay, Namibia. However, this train does not stop at border crossings and is not a cheap option.

Where to find timetables.

There are no train schedules for Namibia at the moment, as the train services are currently suspended due to the pandemic.

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

It is generally a good idea to buy train tickets in advance, especially if you are planning to travel during peak season or on popular routes. This can help ensure that you get a seat on the train and can also sometimes save you money, as ticket prices may increase closer to the departure date.

Types of tickets.

Namibia's national rail operator, TransNamib, offers various types of rail tickets to passengers. The StarLine passenger service is an affordable, safe and comfortable daily passenger train service between Windhoek and all major cities connected to the rail system. Passengers can choose from business or economy class and enjoy amenities such as airplane-style reclining seats, air conditioning, vending machines and audio-visual entertainment systems.

Another option is the Desert Express train, which is a unique luxury excursion through Namibia's magnificent landscapes. The train offers exclusive weekend overnight trips between Windhoek and Swakopmund, as well as 7-10 day excursions to the south of the country and Etosha National Park. This exceptional train offers on-board accommodation and elegant dining, and private charters are also available.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Namibia

Interrail and Eurail passes are not valid for train travel in Namibia.

Saver price.

No information on saver train fares to Namibia has been found.

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

It all depends on what type of rail travel you choose and what kind of experience you are looking for. If you're looking for a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel around Namibia, buying round-trip tickets on StarLine may be cheaper than other options. However, if you're looking for a more luxurious and adventurous way to explore Namibia, buying round-trip tickets on the Desert Express or a special tourist train may be worth the extra cost.

Flexible tickets.

No information on flexible tickets for Namibian trains was found.

Rules of boarding.

There is no specific information on the identity document requirements for boarding a train in Namibia. It is therefore advisable to contact TransNamib or your travel provider for more information.

Discounts for group travel.

No specific information on discounts for group travel on Namibian trains could be found.

Age groups and discounts.

Children under the age of two can travel free on Namibian trains, while children between the ages of two and twelve can travel at half fare. Pensioners over 60 years of age are entitled to a 33% discount on train fares.

Age limitations for minors.

TransNamib, the national railway operator, does not provide any specific information about their policy on unaccompanied minors on their website. Therefore, it is advisable to contact them directly to confirm if they allow children to travel alone on their trains, and if so, what are the requirements and conditions.

Handicapped passengers.

Namibia is a country that ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2007, which aims to promote the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society. However, in Namibia, the implementation of the UNCRPD has faced many challenges such as lack of awareness, stigma, discrimination, limited resources and weak political support.

Accessibility and availability of rail transportation for people with disabilities in Namibia is not well documented. However, some sources indicate the availability of certain facilities and services aimed at assisting passengers with disabilities at stations and on trains. For example:

    • Windhoek train station has a ramp for wheelchair access and a special counter for disabled passengers.
    • TransNamib provides assistance to passengers with disabilities who need help boarding or disembarking the train.
    • TransNamib also provides discounts for disabled people traveling on StarLine trains.

Seat reservations in trains in Namibia.

When trains were running, it was possible to reserve seats on the train.
To reserve seats on StarLine trains, passengers can call the central reservation desk in Windhoek at +264 (0) 61 298 2032. To reserve a seat on the Desert Express, when booking online, you simply had to select the seat you prefer.

Comfort classes on the trains.

StarLine provides two classes of comfort:

    • Business Class: Offers extra legroom and fewer seats in the coach. Equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, vending machines and audio-visual entertainment systems.

    • Economy Class: This is a more affordable option. Includes reclining seats, air conditioning, vending machines and audiovisual entertainment systems.

Desert Express offers luxury and comfort while traveling:

    • Cabins with en-suite bathrooms: Spacious cabins are equipped with private bathrooms for passenger convenience.

    • Dining Car: Here passengers can enjoy gourmet meals in elegant surroundings.

    • Lounge Car: A place to relax and unwind with amazing views.

    • Observation Car: Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the scenery in a cozy atmosphere.

    • Bar Car: Provides a place to socialize, relax and enjoy drinks.

Food and drink in Namibia trains / train restaurant.

The Desert Express train has a dining car that serves delicious Namibian cuisine such as game meat, fish, vegetables and fruit. 

 StarLine trains have vending machines but no dining car or buffet car, so passengers must bring their own food and drinks.

Night trains in Namibia?

Namibia had night trains, notably the Desert Express, which ran as a luxury night train between Windhoek and Swakopmund. The Desert Express has sleeping compartments where passengers can rest during the journey. The trip took about 19 hours and was operated on Fridays and Saturdays. Rovos Rail Namibia Safari also offers multi-day journeys that include overnight stays on the train passing through various destinations in Namibia.

Important train routes in Namibia.

Windhoek - Swakopmund & Walvis Bay / 9:47 hours / from 4.31 EUR / The train ran Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Windhoek - Keetmanshoop/ 11:20 hours / from 4.96 EUR / The train ran Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Keetmanshoop-Karasburg/ 5:40 hours / from 3.86 EUR / The train ran on Wednesday and Saturday.
Tsumeb - Ondangwa / 5:30 hours / ? / Ran 1 train a day.

International train routes.

Namibia does not have any direct international rail routes, but it has rail connections to South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Angola through border stations. The following table summarizes the main international rail connections of Namibia:

South Africa: Nakop – Upington ( Trans-Kalahari Railway )
Botswana: Gobabis – Lobatse ( Trans-Kalahari Railway )
Zambia: Wenela – Livingstone ( Trans-Caprivi Railway )
Angola: Oshikango – Lubango ( Trans-Cunene Railway )

However, some of these rail connections are not fully operational or reliable due to political, economic, or security reasons. For example, the Trans-Cunene Railway to Angola was damaged by civil war and has not been fully restored. The Trans-Caprivi Railway to Zambia is also subject to frequent disruptions and delays due to customs and immigration issues.

Tourist / scenic routes in Namibia.

Namibia is a country of diverse and stunning landscapes, from the vast Namib Desert to the rugged Atlantic coast. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful country is by train, as you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of rail travel while admiring the scenery and wildlife along the way. Here are some of the tourist and scenic routes in Namibia by train that you might want to consider:

    • Desert Express: This is a luxury train that runs between Windhoek and Swakopmund, offering a variety of activities and excursions en route. You can experience the spectacular views of the Namib Desert, visit the Fish River Canyon, see the quiver trees at Garas Park, encounter cheetahs at a conservation project, and explore the German colonial town of Swakopmund. The train has spacious cabins, a restaurant, a bar, and a lounge car with panoramic windows. The journey takes about two days and one night each way.

    • Namibia Safari: This is a nine or eleven-night journey on the Rovos Rail, one of the most luxurious trains in the world. The train departs from Pretoria in South Africa and travels through Kimberley, Upington, Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Etosha National Park, and Swakopmund before reaching Walvis Bay on the Atlantic coast. You can enjoy the elegance and comfort of the train, which has deluxe suites, fine dining, and attentive service. The journey also includes several off-train excursions, such as visiting a diamond mine, a cheetah project, a ghost town, a museum, and a wildlife reserve. You can also admire the stunning landscapes of the Kalahari Desert, the Fish River Canyon, the Namib Desert, and the Skeleton Coast.

    • Namibia Train Holidays: This is a package offered by Great Rail Journeys, a leading provider of escorted rail tours. The package includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, and guided tours. You can choose from different itineraries that cover various destinations in Namibia, such as Windhoek, Swakopmund, Etosha National Park, Damaraland, Sossusvlei, and Walvis Bay. You can also travel on different trains, such as the Desert Express, the Pride of Africa (Rovos Rail), or the Shongololo Express. You can enjoy the convenience and comfort of rail travel while exploring the culture, history, nature, and wildlife of Namibia.

Luggage information.

The baggage allowance for StarLine passengers is 20 kg per person plus one hand luggage weighing no more than 5 kg. Baggage must be clearly labeled with the passenger's name and destination. Excess baggage is subject to a fee of EUR 0.25 per kilogram.

The baggage allowance for Desert Express passengers is 25 kg per person plus one carry-on bag weighing no more than 7 kg. Luggage must be stored in designated areas or under beds. Excess baggage is subject to a fee of 0.5 euros per kilogram.

Bicycle on the train.

No information was found on the rules and regulations for transporting a bicycle on a Namibian train.

Ski or snowboard on the train.

No information was found about the possibility of carrying skis or snowboards on a Namibian train.

Luggage lockers on the stations in Namibia.

Unfortunately, it seems that there are no luggage lockers at train stations in Namibia. According to one source, luggage storage is getting scarce in railway stations for several reasons, but the main explanation is security.

Lost and Found Items.

There is no official website or service for lost and found items on Namibian trains. However, you may be lucky enough to join a Facebook group called Lost and Found items in Namibia. This group is for people who have lost or found something in Namibia, and you can post a description of the item and the train you traveled on.

Pets on the trains.

No specific information could be found on the transportation of pets on Namibian trains. However, according to the Namibian Veterinary Association, when traveling with pets between Namibia and South Africa, a valid and up-to-date vaccination certificate is required, as well as an inter-territorial movement permit issued by the local state veterinarian after examining the dog/cat.