OFF TO SEE THE ANIMALS AND SOME CULTURE IN BETWEEN Just north of Henties the road makes a sudden turn in an easterly direction to take you to the old mining village of Uis. Guided tours to Brandberg mountain, with its intriguing paintings dating back 4 000 years, are offered from Uis. Have a coffee at Vicky’s Coffee Shop and buy a few semi-precious stones from the small-scale miners before continuing to the cultural hub of Omaruru. Omaruru is perhaps best known as host to the annual Artist Trail and as a result is often visited to see artists at work and buy some local crafts. But the town also has an interesting history – with many century-old buildings still standing to tell their tales. A selection of small industries offer further incentive to linger a little longer, like Tikoloshe Afrika where weather-worn roots are transformed into masterpieces, Dörgeloh Chocolates for truly Namibian choc delicacies or Kristall Kellerei, a manufacturer of local wines, brandy and schnapps.
CAKE, CRAFTS AND RELAXATION AT THE SPRINGS After having ticked all the species off your must-see list, head southwards towards the capital. Take time for a stop in Okahandja. Not only is it the epicentre of Namibia’s biltong production, but it is also where you will find a large number of woodcarvers from the north who flaunt their skills at an extended informal craft market on the southern edge of the town. Apart from a wide selection of carved souvenirs, you will find anything from woven baskets to beaded chameleons and it is the perfect opportunity to stock up on presents for the unfortunate ones who had to stay at home. Across the street the Brewed Awakenings Coffee Shop is the ideal place to try a variety of homemade cakes with your coffee. Don’t forget to take some biltong for the road, either next door at Savannah Biltong, from Closwa in the centre of town or Piet’s Biltong on the northern outskirts. If you are looking for some real relaxation, take a break at Gross Barmen Hot Springs Resort just west of Okahandja, where you can soothe aching muscles and your mind in the naturally steaming spring water of the thermal hall.
From Omaruru it’s not far to the animal kingdom of Erindi Private Nature Reserve. It is one of the largest private game reserves in the country and you certainly won’t be disappointed with the selection of wildlife that roams the plains and mountains which are characteristic of the area. From eland to elephant, lion to leopard and everything else in between – expect to see them all!
Camp Elephant waterhole, Erindi Private Game Reserve