Things To Do
in Oshikango
Oshikango is a vibrant town situated in the Ohangwena Region of Namibia, close to the border with Angola. It serves as a major commercial hub, facilitating trade between Namibia and Angola, and is known for its lively markets and welcoming atmosphere. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of local traditions and influences from neighboring countries.
Visitors can experience the unique blend of Namibian and Angolan cultures through its food, music, and art.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Oshikango Market, where you can experience local life and shop for crafts and food.
Visit the nearby town of Oshakati to explore the Oshana Region's cultural sites, including the local museum.
Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Namibian dishes, followed by a stroll through the town center.
Embark on a guided tour to the nearby Etosha National Park for wildlife viewing.
Return to Oshikango and visit the local arts and crafts shops to purchase unique souvenirs.
Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar or social venue to enjoy live music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a restaurant | $10 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within town) | $5 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $15 |
| 🥤Local beer | $2 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Access to stunning natural parks and wildlife.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be sparse.
- Language barriers may exist for non-Namibian speakers.
- "Uu shangala" - How are you?
- "Tjilileni" - Welcome!
- "Oshikango" - Oshikango
- "Ndi nawa" - I am fine.
- "Omaanda" - Thank you.
Places to Visit in Oshikango
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere as locals and visitors shop and interact.
A short drive from Oshikango, the park offers stunning landscapes and wildlife, perfect for nature photography.
Various local festivals provide fantastic opportunities to photograph traditional dances, costumes, and crafts.
Food in Oshikango
Oshikango Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food consisting of grilled meat, usually served with a spicy sauce and sides.
Must-Try!
A traditional porridge made from maize meal, often enjoyed with various stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where vendors sell fresh produce, local dishes, and handmade crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are important in Namibian culture; a handshake is common, often followed by asking about one’s well-being.
Showing respect to elders is crucial; it’s customary to greet them first in any gathering.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Oshikango
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars; a tip of 10-15% is generally appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments also accept credit cards. Local currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Ideal for exploring the outdoors but stay hydrated.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity make this a great time for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Cooler temperatures, especially at night, with daytime averages around 20°C (68°F). Perfect weather for wildlife viewing.
Temperatures begin to rise, and the landscape blossoms, offering beautiful scenery for photography.
Oshikango at Night
Hiking in Oshikango
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Though a bit further away, this iconic hiking destination offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for avid hikers.
Located north of Oshikango, this hike provides stunning landscapes and opportunities to see ancient rock art.
Airports
How to reach Oshikango by plane.
Located approximately 50 km from Oshikango, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Namibia, the Ovambo people have a rich cultural heritage and are prevalent in the Oshikango area.
Due to its proximity to Angola, Oshikango has a significant population of Angolan immigrants who contribute to the town's cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is immensely popular in Oshikango, with local teams and matches drawing significant community support.
A cultural sport that showcases strength and skill, traditional wrestling events are often held during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oshikango.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
Gluten-free options may be limited, so be sure to inquire about ingredients when ordering.