Is it safe to withdraw cash in Namibia or not?
I met other travelers who warned me against using roadside ATMs after sunset. Even in cities, try to withdraw before 7 PM. Namibia has friendly people, but safety after dark isn’t guaranteed, especially in low-traffic zones.
Driving through Etosha, I realized that ATMs in rural areas either don’t exist or run out of money. I withdrew in Otjiwarongo during the day just to be safe. At night, most smaller towns go dark and deserted fast - not ideal for cash runs.
In Swakopmund, I used a FNB ATM after a late dinner. There were still some people out, and the town felt calm. Locals say crime isn’t rampant, but opportunistic theft happens. Use indoor machines or those near gas stations with security.
I was in Windhoek and withdrew from a Standard Bank ATM at a shopping complex around 8:30 PM. There were guards nearby and decent lighting. ATM safety at night in Namibia is hit-or-miss - in busy commercial areas it’s manageable, but I wouldn’t try it in residential parts.