Things To Do
in Omaruru

Omaruru is a charming town in Namibia known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Nestled in the Erongo Region, it serves as a gateway to various natural attractions and wildlife experiences. The town boasts a blend of German colonial architecture and local culture, making it a unique destination.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife watching, as well as explore local art and craft markets.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Omaruru
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Omaruru Craft Centre, where you can browse local handmade crafts and learn about the art of Namibian weaving.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the nearby Erongo Mountain Range for a scenic hike to enjoy the breathtaking views of the landscape.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant, sampling Namibian cuisine while enjoying live music from local artists.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the town's history and cultural significance, including exhibits on indigenous tribes and colonial history.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of a nearby community to engage with locals and understand their customs and traditions.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset at the Omaruru River, followed by dinner at a traditional boma where you can experience local dishes in a communal setting.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
🛒Groceries (1 week)$50-70
🚖Taxi ride$2-5
🏕️Camping fee$15
🎟️Entrance fee to wildlife reserve$10-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Transportation can be challenging outside the town.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "Dumela" - Hello
  • "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
  • "O kae?" - How are you?
  • "Tsamaya sentle" - Go well (goodbye)
  • "O a tsoha?" - Where are you from?

Places to Visit in Omaruru

Visit one of these nice places.

Erongo Mountain Range

Breathtaking landscapes and rock formations perfect for capturing stunning sunset photographs.

Omaruru River

The river provides beautiful reflections and lush greenery, ideal for tranquil nature shots.

Omaruru Craft Centre

The vibrant colors and textures of handmade crafts create excellent opportunities for artistic photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Omaruru

Omaruru offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its cultural diversity and local flavors.

Omaruru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Biltong

A traditional dried meat snack, often made from beef or game, seasoned with spices.

Must-Try!

Oshifima

A staple dish made from maize, often served with meat or vegetable stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and homemade snacks, providing an authentic taste of Namibian life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Omaruru features a semi-arid climate with significant seasonal variations. Summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters can be quite cool, dropping below 10°C (50°F) at night. Rainfall is primarily concentrated in the summer months, while winters are typically dry, offering clear skies and pleasant days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet locals with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Dumela' before engaging in conversation.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by offering them your seat and addressing them politely.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Omaruru is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, securing valuables, and being aware of your surroundings. Local law enforcement is present, and it's recommended to have emergency contact numbers handy.

Tipping in Omaruru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and for guides; however, check the bill as some may include service charges.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect high temperatures and occasional rains. It's ideal for outdoor activities but stay hydrated.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and lower humidity make this the perfect time for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures, particularly at night; great for stargazing and outdoor activities during the day.

Spring (September - November)

Warm temperatures with blooming flora, making it a picturesque time for photography and nature walks.

Nightlife Guide

Omaruru at Night

Omaruru's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it ideal for socializing with locals and fellow travelers. Events such as cultural performances may also be organized intermittently.

Hiking in Omaruru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Erongo Mountains Trail

A scenic trail offering various routes that showcase the stunning views and unique rock formations of the Erongo region.

Spitzkoppe Hiking Trail

Located a short drive from Omaruru, this trail leads you through dramatic landscapes and is popular for both hiking and climbing.

Airports

How to reach Omaruru by plane.

Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH)

Located about 250 km from Omaruru, this is the main international airport serving Namibia, with flights to various destinations in Africa and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Omaruru is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions are located within walking distance. However, some areas may require transportation, especially those leading to natural reserves and hiking trails. Sidewalks are available but can vary in condition.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Herero People

One of the prominent ethnic groups in the region, known for their rich traditions, vibrant dress, and cultural practices.

German Descendants

Due to the colonial history, there is a significant German community contributing to the local culture and architecture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport among locals, with many community teams and matches played regularly.

Cricket

Cricket enjoys a following in the region, with local clubs and schools participating in matches and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Omaruru is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation is limited, primarily consisting of minibus taxis that connect to nearby towns. It is recommended to rent a vehicle or use taxis for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Omaruru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While traditional Namibian food is meat-heavy, some restaurants offer vegetarian options; it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Omaruru are basic, with a local clinic providing essential services. For more serious medical issues, it's advisable to seek care in larger cities like Windhoek. Travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance and consider vaccinations as recommended.

Discover Namibia

Read more in our Namibia 2025 Travel Guide.

Namibia Travel Guide