Best places to experience the culture in Namibia
All of the lodges we feature employ largely local people, so depending on the different areas in which you stay; you'll meet people from different tribes and cultural backgrounds. These are never set us as “cultural experiences”, but Namibia constantly allows you the opportunity to talk with local people, hearing about their background and way of life, and probably a few of their interesting stories!
To actively engage with one of Namibia's more traditional cultures, a highlight for many is a visit to a Himba settlement. These are usually guided day trips and offer sensitive insights into the interesting lifestyles of these semi-nomadic, desert-dwelling people. The visits are not only a great opportunity to witness a new and highly contrasting culture to your own, they also are beneficial for the communities you are visiting.
For us, one of Africa's very best cultural experiences has always been a longer and more involved stay in a traditional Bushman village, where you can take part in a wide range of activities with the Bushmen and learn in detail about their hunter-gatherer culture.
Twyfelfontein, Namibia's only Cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site has one of Africa's largest concentrations of ancient rock art and is well worth a visit. Easily accessed from most camps in the Southern Damaraland area, the many engraved rock faces are a fascinating insight into some of the practices of the hunter-gatherer communities that lived off this land.
Hartebeest Self-drive Safari
16 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$3,490 - US$4,790 per person
Nhoma Camp
At Nhoma Camp you're staying right by a Bushmen village. Here, the Ju/'hoan people have been a part of the camp's setup from the beginning, and benefit substantially from your visit. Time with these people offers amazing insights into a hunter-gatherer culture.
Khowarib Lodge
Khowarib Lodge is superbly located for cultural interactions with Namibia’s iconic Himba tribespeople. Despite their semi-nomadic existence, Khowarib has a good track record of genuine interactions between guests and the inhabitants of the surrounding Himba villages.
Ozondjou Trails
Many travellers visit Damaraland to seek out the area's desert-adapted wildlife. Ozondjou Trails not only offers this opportunity but also gives an insight into the life of modern Namibians and the challenges they face of human–wildlife conflict.
Skeleton Coast Safari
5 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$8,420 - US$14,470 per person
Kuidas Camp
A short walk from Kuidas Camp in Namibia’s Damaraland brings you to some ancient Bushman rock art that’s hidden among the rocks. Rarely visited except by guests at the camp, it’s an opportunity to view evidence of this traditional Namibian culture.
Leylandsdrift Camp
A stay at Leylandsdrift on a Skeleton Coast Safari may include a visit to a Himba settlement. Observing the traditions of these semi-nomadic people creates a unique opportunity to gain a brief insight into this traditional Namibian culture.
Skeleton Coast Safaris
A Skeleton Coast Safari offers an unrivalled opportunity to experience one of Namibia’s traditional cultures. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you may seek out Bushman rock art, or visit a remote Himba settlement, where the traditional lifestyle is slowly dying out.
Ruppell's Korhaan Fly-in Safari
9 days • 4 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$10,020 - US$15,280 per person
Serra Cafema
Arguably Namibia’s most remote camp, Serra Cafema offers visits to traditional Himba villages. They’re authentic experiences; off the beaten track, away from most tourists, and conducted with great sensitivity. Learn about the lifestyle and customs of these semi-nomadic people.
Goshawk Fly-in Safari
12 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$11,600 - US$19,190 per person
Serra Cafema
Arguably Namibia’s most remote camp, Serra Cafema offers visits to traditional Himba villages. They’re authentic experiences; off the beaten track, away from most tourists, and conducted with great sensitivity. Learn about the lifestyle and customs of these semi-nomadic people.
Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari
9 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$9,800 - US$14,130 per person
Hoanib Valley Camp
Hoanib Valley Camp offers guest the option of a sensitive and welcoming interactions with Namibia’s some of traditional cultures. While these trips focus predominantly on Himba villages, they can be extended to take in Herero or Damara communities too.
Brown Hyena Self-drive
14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$7,770 - US$9,800 per person
Wolwedans Desert Lodge
It's hard to comprehend survival in the wilderness of the NamibRand without refrigeration or water on tap. But take a guided walk from Wolwedans Desert Lodge, and learn how Namibia’s Khoisan peoples and their culture thrived in this desiccated landscape.
Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari
14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
US$4,670 - US$5,710 per person
Ozondjou Trails
Many travellers visit Damaraland to seek out the area's desert-adapted wildlife. Ozondjou Trails not only offers this opportunity but also gives an insight into the life of modern Namibians and the challenges they face of human–wildlife conflict.
Rock Hare Self-drive Safari
20 days • 12 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
US$5,200 - US$8,280 per person
Nxamaseri Lodge
Botswana's first World Heritage Site, the Tsodilo Hills, are easily accessible from Nxamaseri Lodge, which offers guided and catered day trips here. Get a taste for this ancient culture, see the amazing density of historic San rock paintings and take in the stunning views.
Kazile Island Lodge
For a break from exploring the Bwabwata, embark on a cultural visit to a local homestead from Kazile Island Lodge. A local guide will talk to you about the day-to-day life of the residents of the village and about the unchanged traditions of the Mbukushu and Lozi cultures.
Sable Self-drive Safari
12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
US$6,090 - US$9,230 per person
Nxamaseri Lodge
Botswana's first World Heritage Site, the Tsodilo Hills, are easily accessible from Nxamaseri Lodge, which offers guided and catered day trips here. Get a taste for this ancient culture, see the amazing density of historic San rock paintings and take in the stunning views.
Nkasa Lupala
Set within the Wupara Conservancy in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge offers a cultural visit to the homestead region of the conservancy. This tour takes in a local school and – where possible – a traditional authority.
Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari
18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
US$6,140 - US$10,360 per person
Nxamaseri Lodge
Botswana's first World Heritage Site, the Tsodilo Hills, are easily accessible from Nxamaseri Lodge, which offers guided and catered day trips here. Get a taste for this ancient culture, see the amazing density of historic San rock paintings and take in the stunning views.
Best camps & lodges for Cultural experiences in Namibia
Serra Cafema
Arguably Namibia’s most remote camp, Serra Cafema offers visits to traditional Himba villages. They’re authentic experiences; off the beaten track, away from most tourists, and conducted with great sensitivity. Learn about the lifestyle and customs of these semi-nomadic people.
Kazile Island Lodge
For a break from exploring the Bwabwata, embark on a cultural visit to a local homestead from Kazile Island Lodge. A local guide will talk to you about the day-to-day life of the residents of the village and about the unchanged traditions of the Mbukushu and Lozi cultures.
Okahirongo Ele. Lodge
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is an extremely remote lodge, in the northwest corner of Namibia. It’s only neighbour is the nearby Himba village where you can go on guided visits, and gain insights into the culture and everyday life of these semi-nomadic, desert-dwelling people.
Skeleton Coast Safaris
A Skeleton Coast Safari offers an unrivalled opportunity to experience one of Namibia’s traditional cultures. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you may seek out Bushman rock art, or visit a remote Himba settlement, where the traditional lifestyle is slowly dying out.
Khowarib Lodge
Khowarib Lodge is superbly located for cultural interactions with Namibia’s iconic Himba tribespeople. Despite their semi-nomadic existence, Khowarib has a good track record of genuine interactions between guests and the inhabitants of the surrounding Himba villages.
Nhoma Camp
At Nhoma Camp you're staying right by a Bushmen village. Here, the Ju/'hoan people have been a part of the camp's setup from the beginning, and benefit substantially from your visit. Time with these people offers amazing insights into a hunter-gatherer culture.
Wolwedans Desert Lodge
It's hard to comprehend survival in the wilderness of the NamibRand without refrigeration or water on tap. But take a guided walk from Wolwedans Desert Lodge, and learn how Namibia’s Khoisan peoples and their culture thrived in this desiccated landscape.
Hoanib Valley Camp
Hoanib Valley Camp offers guest the option of a sensitive and welcoming interactions with Namibia’s some of traditional cultures. While these trips focus predominantly on Himba villages, they can be extended to take in Herero or Damara communities too.
Kuidas Camp
A short walk from Kuidas Camp in Namibia’s Damaraland brings you to some ancient Bushman rock art that’s hidden among the rocks. Rarely visited except by guests at the camp, it’s an opportunity to view evidence of this traditional Namibian culture.
Ozondjou Trails
Many travellers visit Damaraland to seek out the area's desert-adapted wildlife. Ozondjou Trails not only offers this opportunity but also gives an insight into the life of modern Namibians and the challenges they face of human–wildlife conflict.
Namushasha Lodge
Namushasha Lodge worked with local people to help create the Namushasha Heritage Centre in 2014. This “living museum” showcases the village life, traditions and culture of the HaMbukushu, BaLozi and MaFwe peoples who inhabit the Caprivi area.
Leylandsdrift Camp
A stay at Leylandsdrift on a Skeleton Coast Safari may include a visit to a Himba settlement. Observing the traditions of these semi-nomadic people creates a unique opportunity to gain a brief insight into this traditional Namibian culture.
Nkasa Lupala
Set within the Wupara Conservancy in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge offers a cultural visit to the homestead region of the conservancy. This tour takes in a local school and – where possible – a traditional authority.
Wolwedans Dune Camp
Namibia’s Khoisan peoples and their culture thrived for generations in the desiccated wilderness of the NamibRand. At Wolwedans Dune Camp, learn a little of how on an interpretative Bushman walk led by one of their descendants.
Nambwa Tented Lodge
Of the many different tribes in Namibia, each has its own unique customs and traditions. Find out about some of these on a cultural excursion to a local Caprivian village from Nambwa Tented Lodge.
Cultural experiences elsewhere in Africa
Our top ideas and inspiration for Cultural experiences in other countries.
Botswana
Botswana has diverse ethnic groups living side by side in what has historically been a very peaceful ...
Kenya
Kenya offers a rich variety of cultural experiences with plenty of involvement with local villages...
Malawi
Almost any travelling in Malawi can offer insights into the country's culture and traditions - ...
Mozambique
Mozambique can offer really unique African cultural experiences - which have their roots in its ...
Rwanda
Rwanda has a rich and well documented cultural history. Far from being clearly distinct tribes, ...
Tanzania
Tanzania offers many contrasting African cultural experiences. With a population of around 50 million, ...
Zambia
Zambia's safari camps are notable for their small scale and often excellent community ties, leading ...
Zanzibar
Simply staying on Zanzibar is a cultural experience in itself. The exotic, vibrant atmosphere of ...
Zimbabwe
Despite its troubled recent history, Zimbabwe is a vibrant and beautiful country, with some excellent ...
Where to see wildlife species in Namibia
Maximise the chances of seeing your favourite animals based on traveller sightings reports from the field.
Oryx
Oryx sp.
Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.
70% SUCCESS
1,523 sightings from 2,183 observations
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.
33% SUCCESS
1,169 sightings from 3,569 observations
Black Rhino
Diceros bicornis
The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.
30% SUCCESS
701 sightings from 2,307 observations
White Rhino
Ceratotherium simum
The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.
43% SUCCESS
563 sightings from 1,305 observations
Elephant
Loxodonta africana
By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.
91% SUCCESS
4,141 sightings from 4,551 observations
Lion
Panthera leo
Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.
81% SUCCESS
3,428 sightings from 4,237 observations
Meerkat
Suricata suricatta
These highly sociable little mammals have an endearing appearance and comical antics. Found in the drier areas of Southern Africa, close encounters are a sought-after experience.
20% SUCCESS
95 sightings from 467 observations
Buffalo
Syncerus caffer
One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.
83% SUCCESS
2,899 sightings from 3,486 observations
Giraffe
Giraffa camelopardalis
The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.
86% SUCCESS
3,987 sightings from 4,645 observations
Hippo
Hippopotamus amphibius
The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.
90% SUCCESS
3,019 sightings from 3,373 observations
Spotted Hyena
Crocuta crocuta
The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.
55% SUCCESS
2,446 sightings from 4,483 observations
Brown Hyena
Parahyaena brunnea
This largely solitary scavenger is one of the more elusive and little-known of Africa’s carnivores. Shaggier than its spotted cousin, it occurs only in the arid southwest of the continent.
16% SUCCESS
275 sightings from 1,752 observations
Leopard
Panthera pardus
The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.
47% SUCCESS
2,210 sightings from 4,708 observations
Wild dog
Lycaon pictus
African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.
32% SUCCESS
994 sightings from 3,106 observations
Wildebeest
Connochaetes sp.
Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.
67% SUCCESS
2,790 sightings from 4,158 observations
Pangolin
Smutsia sp.
Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.
2% SUCCESS
63 sightings from 3,770 observations
Aardvark
Orycteropus afer
The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.
2% SUCCESS
80 sightings from 3,732 observations
Eland
Taurotragus oryx
Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.
49% SUCCESS
1,642 sightings from 3,352 observations
Zebra
Equus sp.
The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.
84% SUCCESS
4,355 sightings from 5,176 observations
Roan antelope
Hippotragus equinus
Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.
24% SUCCESS
564 sightings from 2,315 observations
Sable antelope
Hippotragus niger
Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.
23% SUCCESS
543 sightings from 2,332 observations
Sitatunga
Tragelaphus spekii
The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.
19% SUCCESS
70 sightings from 374 observations
Other styles of holiday in Namibia
Discover all that Namibia has to offer
Birdwatching
Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.
Cultural experiences
Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.
Family holidays
Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.
Honeymoons
Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.
Luxury
First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays.
Photography holidays
Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.
Private villas & houses
Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family
Riding holidays
Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.
Solo Travel
Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.
Walking
Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.
Walking safaris
Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.
Wellbeing
Wellness escapes in stunning locations
Wildlife safaris
These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.