Things To Do
in Maltahöhe
Maltahöhe is a small town situated in the Hardap region of Namibia. It is known for its picturesque surroundings, including the Tiras Mountains and Namib-Naukluft Park. The town offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular stopover for travelers exploring central Namibia.
Visitors can also learn about the local culture and history at the Maltahöhe Museum.
- "Ombinda yange" - My name is
- "Wa kachikile" - How are you?
- "Tangi ningi" - Thank you
- "Omaanda" - Goodbye
- "Omahenje" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a sunrise hike at the nearby Naukluft Mountains. The breathtaking views will refresh your spirit for a day of adventure.
Visit the local craft market to experience traditional Namibian culture. Here, you can purchase handcrafted souvenirs.
Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local guesthouse. Reflect on your day while watching the stars shine in the clear Namibian sky.
Take an early morning game drive in the Namib Desert to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your camera ready for amazing photography opportunities.
Engage in a guided bushwalk to learn about the unique ecosystem. The experience offers insight into the flora and fauna of the region.
Return to your accommodation for a traditional Namibian meal. Share stories with fellow travelers around the campfire.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Scenic landscapes and natural beauty.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Fewer employment opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Potentially inadequate infrastructure and public services.
- Limited educational facilities and resources.
- Climate can be extreme, with hot summers and a dry environment.
Best Activities in Maltahöhe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Namib Desert with various hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the sand dunes and unique flora and fauna.
Maltahöhe is home to a variety of bird species, making it an excellent location for bird watching enthusiasts to observe and photograph local wildlife.
Experience the thrill of quad biking through the picturesque landscapes of Maltahöhe, navigating the desert terrain and enjoying the adrenaline rush.
Set up camp in the wilderness for a night under the stars, enjoying the clear skies and tranquility of the Namibian desert.
Engage with the local communities around Maltahöhe to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life while enjoying guided outdoor experiences.
Places to Visit in Maltahöhe
Visit one of these nice places.
A natural gorge formed by the Tsauchab River, Sesriem Canyon offers stunning views and unique geological formations, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The iconic red dunes of the Namib Desert near Sossusvlei are famous for their breathtaking beauty. Climb up Dune 45 or Big Daddy for panoramic views of the desert landscape.
Known for its dead camel thorn trees set against a backdrop of towering orange dunes, Deadvlei is a surreal location that provides exceptional photo opportunities.
Located near Maltahöhe, Elim Dune gives visitors a less crowded alternative for stunning sunset views. The golden sand dunes create a picturesque landscape perfect for photography.
Once a thriving diamond mining town, Kolmanskop is now a fascinating ghost town overtaken by sand. The decaying buildings amidst the dunes offer a unique historical and photographic experience.
The picturesque river offers scenic views especially after rainfall, with opportunities to capture reflections and lush vegetation contrasted against the arid landscape.
This vast national park encompasses diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and deserts, providing countless opportunities for stunning photographs of Namibia's natural beauty.
Food in Maltahöhe
Maltahöhe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This is a must-try Namibian specialty made of dried, spiced meat. It can be found at local markets such as Maltahöhe Meat Market.
Must-Try!
A traditional stew slow-cooked in a cast-iron pot, combining meat, vegetables, and fragrant spices. Visit Oahera Restaurant for an authentic taste.
These edible caterpillars are a local delicacy, often served fried or in a stew. Look for them at Maltahöhe Market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local flavors, offering an array of fresh produce, biltong, and homemade preserves.
Explore the vibrant street food scene near Maltahöhe Park, where you can savor grilled meats, savory pancakes, and traditional Namibian snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Maltahöhe, it is customary to greet people when you meet them. A handshake is common, and it is polite to ask how the other person is doing. Using local greetings and showing respect for the culture enhances rapport.
Dressing modestly is important in Maltahöhe, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. Traditional clothing is appreciated, and it is advisable to wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs.
In Namibian culture, elders are highly respected. It is crucial to address older individuals with appropriate titles and show deference in conversations. Listening attentively and following their lead in social settings is considered a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Maltahöhe
Ensure a smooth experience
In Maltahöhe, tipping practices are generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides. A tip of around 10% of the total bill is customary if the service is satisfactory. For small services or local guides, rounding up the bill or giving small change is also seen as courteous.
Payment in Maltahöhe can be made through various methods, including cash and mobile payments. The Namibian Dollar is the official currency, and it is advisable to carry cash for small transactions, as not all establishments may accept credit cards. Mobile payment options are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas, making transactions more convenient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Maltahöhe is hot with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is more common during this time, leading to bursts of vibrant greenery in the landscape. Expect occasional thunderstorms, especially in January. It's a good time for birdwatching and seeing the flora in bloom.
Autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, making it a more pleasant time to visit. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Rainfall decreases significantly, and the landscape remains lush from the summer rains. This season is great for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Winter in Maltahöhe is characterized by cooler temperatures, especially at night, which can drop to about 0°C (32°F). Days are sunny and warm, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is a popular time for visiting, as the dry weather allows for excellent wildlife viewing. Be prepared for colder nights.
Spring experiences a gradual warming trend, with temperatures rising back into the 20s to 30s°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is typically dry, and the landscape starts to change as the flora prepares for the upcoming summer. It's a good time for stargazing, as clear skies are common. Wildlife is active, making it a great period for photography.
Maltahöhe at Night
Hiking in Maltahöhe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast park with various hiking trails offering stunning views of the Namib Desert and iconic dunes such as Sossusvlei.
One of the largest canyons in the world, featuring a remarkable hiking trail that allows you to explore its unique geological formations.
Surrounding the Maltahöhe region, the Kalahari offers opportunities for hikes that showcase its distinctive landscapes and wildlife.
A remote area with beautiful hiking routes that take you through diverse ecosystems, showcasing the unique flora and fauna of the region.
A scenic hiking area near Sossusvlei, where trails follow the riverbed and lead to picturesque landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Aiports
How to reach Maltahöhe by plane.
The main international airport in Namibia, located approximately 45 kilometers east of Windhoek.
An international airport serving Walvis Bay, located around 460 kilometers from Maltahöhe, offering flights to several regional destinations.
A domestic airport located in Windhoek, serving mainly regional and some international flights, around 50 kilometers from Maltahöhe.
Located about 600 kilometers to the south of Maltahöhe, this airport supports both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Himba are an indigenous group known for their traditional pastoral lifestyle, engaging in cattle herding and subsistence farming.
The Herero people are known for their strong cattle herding practices and have a rich cultural heritage including traditional dress and social structures.
The Damara community is recognized for its diverse cultural practices and contributions to the history and development of Namibia.
The Nama people have a long-standing history in the region and are known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
The San people, also known as Bushmen, are indigenous hunter-gatherers with deep roots in the Namibian landscape and unique cultural traditions.
Afrikaner settlers, descendants of the Dutch and other Europeans, have been part of the demographic landscape, influencing local culture and economy.
This group encompasses various smaller communities and migrants who have settled in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Maltahöhe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Maltahöhe, with local teams participating in community leagues and tournaments.
Rugby has a growing following in Maltahöhe, with clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Cricket is played by enthusiasts in the region, often during the summer months, with informal games taking place regularly.
Netball is popular among women in Maltahöhe, with teams competing in local leagues and encouraging participation at schools.
Athletics events, including running and field sports, are organized for local youth, fostering a competitive spirit in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maltahöhe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Maltahöhe offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as flavorful vegetable stews and fresh salads.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find options like grilled fish, rice dishes, and naturally gluten-free local produce at various dining establishments.