Owamboland: Holiday In Namibia With A Difference

Owamboland, Namibia

If you want to get off the beaten track in Namibia a visit to the home of the Owambo people would be in order.  This area is not commonly frequented by tourists and visitors can expect a truly authentic experience of the real Namibia.

The area used to be called Owamboland, but today is divided into four regions called:  Omusati; Ohangwena; Oshana and Oshikoto.  The two main towns in the region are Ondongwa and Oshakati, for those who want to spend a few days, hotel options can be found in these towns.

Tourist Attractions in Owamba

There is plenty to do in the Owamba region of Namibia; the area has a rich cultural and historical tradition. Visitors can go on guided trips to the Oponono Lake, the Omandongo Mission Station and visit the Ombagu grass plains.

The people of the region are warm and inviting and visitors would be welcome to join the locals in eating the traditional food of the area and even get involved in a bit of singing and dancing.

Sites worth visiting include:

Uukwaluudhi Royal Homestead:  home of the royal family of the region.  Visitors can tour the homestead, meet the residents and, if they are lucky and the king is feeling social, they may even get a chance to chat to the man himself.

The King of Trees:   the Baobab is considered the king of trees in Namibia. Guests can visit the Ombalantu Baobab tree, and get the chance to sit in the centre of the tree, an experience considered holy.

Experience Shebeen Life:  When all is said and done it is nice to unwind with a beer in hand, enjoy some music and relax.  The various shebeens or cuca shops are the perfect place to unwind, the Owambo way.

There is more to Namibia than the cities and the safaris, visiting the Owamba region is a trip few tourists take.  Taking the time to get know the people of the region will broaden your horizons. 

As the local writer Ron Swilling wrote of this area:   “My days in the North unfolded in a wave of new sensations, tastes and information as I became immersed in the Oshiwambo culture and way of life.”

Disclaimer
Please Note: The details shared herein were correct at the time of publishing. However, with time some of this information may change. We recommend confirming information with suppliers prior to making final travel arrangements. If you do happen to find an issue with any information we’ve shared here, please feel free to contact us so that we can make the relevant changes.

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