Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Finally, the town of Tsumkwe in Otjozondjupa can be reached by 2WD, though you
will need a sturdier vehicle if you plan to visit outlying San villages. If you're continuing
on to Khaudum National Park, a fully equipped 4WD vehicle is a necessity, and ideally
you'll be travelling as part of a convoy.
The North
The regions of Omusati, Oshana, Ohangwena and Otjikoto comprise the homeland of the
Owambo people, Namibia's largest population group. Although there's little in terms of
tourist attractions in this region, Owambo country is home to a healthy and prosperous
rural society that buzzes with activity. It's also a good place to stock up on the region's
high-quality basketry and sugar-cane work, which is often sold at roadside stalls. Designs
are simple and graceful, usually incorporating a brown geometric pattern woven into the
pale-yellow reed.
ONDANGWA
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The second-largest Owambo town is known as a minor transport hub, with combis fan-
ning out from here to other cities and towns in the north. Its large number of warehouses
provide stock to the 6000 tiny cuca shops (small bush shops named after the brand of An-
golan beer they once sold) that serve the area's rural residents.
Sights
LAKE
Lake Oponono
The main attraction in the area is Lake Oponono, a large wetland fed by the Culevai
oshanas
(underground river channels). After a heavy rainy season, the lake shores attract a
variety of birdlife, including saddlebill storks, crowned cranes, flamingos and pelicans.
The edge of the lake is located 27km south of Ondangwa.
Nakambale Museum
(admission N$10; 8am-1pm & 2-5pm Mon-Fri, 8am-1pm Sat, noon-5pm Sun)
Nakam-
bale, which was built in the late 1870s by Finnish missionary Martti Rauttanen, is be-
lieved to be the oldest building in northern Namibia. It now houses a small museum on
MUSEUM
