Things To Do
in Mariental
Mariental is a small agricultural town in central Namibia that sits along the B1 highway between Windhoek and the southern towns. It lies close to the Hardap Dam, offering water-based scenery and easy access to the arid desert landscapes beyond. The town blends farming life with a quiet frontier charm and a friendly, laid-back pace that welcomes curious travelers.
As a gateway to the Hardap region, Mariental provides nature-filled day trips, cultural encounters, and simple but satisfying Namibian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Mariental Airport and check in to your accommodation. Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Namibian flavors.
Explore the town of Mariental, visiting local shops and markets. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their culture and traditions. Capture the vibrant essence of the town through photography as you stroll around.
Dine at a traditional Namibian restaurant, where you can taste game meat and local dishes. After dinner, take a quiet walk to enjoy the clear Namibian skies filled with stars. Wrap up your night reflecting on the day's experiences.
Set off early for a guided tour of the Kalahari Desert, marveling at the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. Keep an eye out for indigenous plants and animals along the way.
Participate in a cultural experience with the local San people, learning about their traditional way of life and survival techniques. Engage in activities like tracking and bushcraft, enhancing your appreciation for the desert. Pause for lunch under the shade of a tree, enjoying the serenity of the environment.
Return to Mariental and unwind after your desert adventure. Enjoy an outdoor barbecue dinner, sampling local delicacies and freshly grilled meats. Share stories of the day with fellow travelers around a warm campfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛏️1 night in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚗Local transport (short rides/taxi) | $2-6 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day or two | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe and friendly town with easy access to nature
- Gateway to Hardap Dam and desert landscapes
- Limited nightlife and few big-city amenities
- Long distances to major urban centers beyond Mariental
- "Goeie dag" - Good day
- "Baie dankie" - Thank you very much
- "Asseblief" - Please
- "Waar is die toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Mariental
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic vantage points along the dam offering wide-angle shots of the water, wetlands, and distant desert horizon.
Old colonial-style buildings and the grid of streets provide classic townscape photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Golden hour lighting over the water and reeds near the town’s edge.
Food in Mariental
Mariental Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat skewers served with spicy tomato relish; a popular street-food-style dish in town centers and markets.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew in a three-legged pot, featuring meat, vegetables, and fragrant spices.
Dried cured meat snack essential in Namibia; try it as a snack or in sandwiches.
Creamy maize porridge served with sauced, grilled meat for a filling meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can sample fresh produce, fried snacks, and crafts from community vendors.
Casual street-food spots offering quick bites like kapana, popcorn, and fried dough.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake and a smile go a long way; greet shopkeepers and staff when entering a shop.
Dress modestly when visiting markets and villages; avoid loud behavior in public places.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in cultural settings or markets.
Safety
Tipping in Mariental
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 10-15% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot days, occasional afternoon thunderstorms, and dusty conditions; carry water, sun protection, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Mild days with cooler mornings and nights; short sleeves for daytime, a jacket for evenings; rainfall is rare but possible.
Mariental at Night
Hiking in Mariental
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short-scenic loop trail around the dam with vantage points for wildlife and sunset photography.
A modest hill climb offering panoramic views of Mariental and the surrounding plains.
Airports
How to reach Mariental by plane.
Main international gateway; domestic flights connect to local towns and regional hubs.
Regional airport serving domestic flights; a potential option for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent community with distinct dress and cultural traditions.
Historically rooted in the region; contribute to crafts and local culture.
Diverse linguistic groups reflecting Namibia’s multicultural society.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team sport in town and region; local leagues and informal pick-up games are common.
Rugby is widely played and watched, especially among youth and school teams.
Recreational fishing around the dam and rivers; a popular pastime for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mariental.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find salads, baked potatoes, maize porridge, and vegetable stews. Ask for chakalaka or bean stews, or request grilled veggie options at lodges. It’s common to modify meat dishes to include extra vegetables.