Ovahimba Living Museum
The Ovahimba Living Museum is a special place where visitors can experience the daily life and traditions of the Ovahimba people in a hands-on, interactive way. It’s not only an educational center for tourists but also serves as a cultural school for local children and helps generate income for the community.
You’ll find the museum in northern Namibia, between the town of Opuwo (the cultural heart of the Ovahimba) and the beautiful Epupa Falls on the Kunene River.
What You’ll Experience
The museum is built like a traditional Ovahimba homestead. Here, the Ovahimba people welcome guests to learn about and take part in their daily routines. Visitors can try activities such as:
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Preparing traditional food
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Crafting items through blacksmithing, pottery, wood carving, and leatherwork
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Building clay huts
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Participating in singing and dancing
You'll also learn about the "Holy Fire," a key part of their spiritual beliefs, and how important cattle are to their way of life. You’re invited to join in on all the demonstrations.
Other unique experiences include:
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Traditional Ovahimba body painting
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Witnessing (or taking part in) a traditional Himba wedding
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The Ovahimba speak Otjihimba, a dialect of Otjiherero. A guide will translate everything into English for guests.
After your visit, you can stop by the small craft shop to buy handmade souvenirs that reflect the culture you've just experienced.
Programs Available
Half Day
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1. Cultural Tour (2–3 hours)
A great introduction to Ovahimba culture. Includes daily life, food preparation, crafts, dance, religion, livestock importance, and the Holy Fire. You can participate in the activities too.
2. Bush Walk (1 hour)
Take a guided walk with Ovahimba hosts. Learn about traditional weapons and the local plants used for medicine and food.
3. Craftsmanship Workshop (2 hours)
Join in and learn how the Ovahimba make tools, pottery, carvings, and more using traditional techniques.
4. Body Painting (1 hour)
Get dressed in Ovahimba style and try their traditional body painting.
5. Singing and Dancing (1 hour)
Experience the rhythm and energy of Ovahimba music and dance, either at the museum or in a nearby cave.
Full Day
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Spend a Day With Us” (5 hours)
This in-depth experience combines the short cultural tour, bush walk, and craftsmanship workshop into one rich day of learning and participation.
Traditional Wedding Ceremony (Full Day – Pre-booking Required)
Celebrate a traditional Ovahimba wedding. You’ll dress in Ovahimba attire, follow each step of the ceremony, and end the day with a feast including sheep and goat prepared for the celebration.
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