Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Throughout Opuwo you will see Himba wherever you go - they will be walking the
streets, shopping in the stores and even waiting in line behind you at the supermarket.
However tempting it might be, please do not sneak a quick picture of them, as no one ap-
preciates having a camera waved in front of their face.
THE HIMBA, ETIQUETTE & TAKING PICS
In the past, rural Himba people were willing models for photography. These days, however, you are likely to en-
counter traditionally dressed Himba people who will wave you down and ask for tips in exchange for having their
photograph taken. Naturally, whether you accept is up to you, but bear in mind that encouraging this trade works
to draw people away from their traditional lifestyle, and propels them towards a cash economy that undermines
longstanding values and community cooperation.
It's recommended that instead you trade basic commodities for photographs. In times of plenty, Himba grow
maize to supplement their largely meat- and milk-based diet, though rain is highly unpredictable in Namibia.
Pap
(corn meal) is a very desirable gift for the Himba, as are rice, bread, potatoes and other starches. Try to resist giv-
ing sugar, soft drinks and other sweets, as the majority of Himba may never meet a dentist in their lifetime.
If you would like to have free rein with the camera, visiting a traditional village - if done in the proper fashion
- can yield some truly amazing shots. Needless to say, a guide who speaks both English and the Himba language
is essential to the experience. You can either join an organised tour through your accommodation, or stop by the
Kaoko Information Centre in Opuwo.
Before arriving in the village, please do spend some time shopping for gifts - entering a village with food items
will garner a warm welcome from the villagers, who will subsequently be more willing to tolerate photography.
At the end of your time in the village, buying small bracelets and trinkets directly from the artisan is also a greatly
appreciated gesture.
Sleeping & Eating
For self-caterers, there's an
OK Grocer
in town.
Ohakane Lodge $$
( 273031; s/d N$520/900; )
This well-established and centrally located lodge sits
along the main drag in Opuwo and does good business with tour groups. Fairly standard
but fully modern rooms are comfortable enough, but if it's in your budget, it's worth
shelling out a bit more for a bungalow at the Opuwo Country Hotel.
LODGE
Opuwo Country Hotel $$$
HOTEL
