Things To Do
in Oshakati
Oshakati is Namibia's northern market hub in the Oshana region, perched along the B1 corridor and serving as a gateway to the north. The town buzzes with markets, street food stalls, and vibrant Ovambo culture. As a regional center, it offers a mix of modern services, traditional crafts, and easy day trips to nature reserves.
With hot days, warm hospitality, and a dry-season charm, Oshakati provides a window into rural-urban Namibia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
After arriving at the Ondangwa Airport, take a short drive to Oshakati and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Namibian dishes. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant streets and getting acquainted with the community.
Visit the Oshakati Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture while browsing through colorful stalls brimming with handcrafted goods and fresh produce. Engage with local artisans and try some delicious street food. This afternoon is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and experiencing the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant in Oshakati for dinner. Sample authentic Namibian cuisine like kapana and oshifima while enjoying live local music. Reflect on your first day in Oshakati under the starry sky.
Start your day with a visit to the Oshakati Science and Technology Centre, where you can learn about innovative projects in the region. Engage with exhibits highlighting the local education system and technological advancements. A guided tour can help you gain insights into the community's aspirations.
After lunch, take a stroll through the historical sites including the Omukwiyu Shrine, which holds immense cultural significance for the Ovambo people. Learn about the history and traditions that make up the rich tapestry of this area. This afternoon's exploration deepens your understanding of the local culture.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Opt for a cultural experience where local dancers perform traditional dances while you dine. This enriching evening allows you to connect with the local heritage and customs in a meaningful way.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🧭Local transit (short taxi ride) | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant markets and warm hospitality
- Gateway to northern Namibia and wildlife experiences
- Affordable food and lodging options
- Easy day trips to rural villages and nature reserves
- Friendly, relaxed pace of life
- Limited high-end nightlife or cosmopolitan dining
- Very hot summers; travel can be challenging in heavy rains
- Public transport is sparse outside town centers
- Distances to major parks require longer trips
- Some services may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Afrikaans: Hallo" - Hello
- "Afrikaans: Asseblief" - Please
- "Afrikaans: Dankie" - Thank you
- "Afrikaans: Praat jy Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Afrikaans: Waar is die badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Oshakati
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, chefs at kapana counters, and daily life provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Golden-hour light over busy sidewalks, storefronts, and people heading home from a day of work.
Architectural details and the community centerpiece offer characterful portraits and street scenes.
When the rains fill the oshana, reflective waters and dramatic skies create striking landscape photos.
Captures of traditional dances and beadwork demonstrations during market events.
Food in Oshakati
Oshakati Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bite-sized pieces of beef or goat grilled over open flames and sold at street stalls; usually served with salt, salsa, and thick porridge.
Must-Try!
A staple millet-based dish served as a comforting, slightly sweet porridge or with savory sides.
Hearty bean stew cooked with tomatoes, onions, and local spices, often enjoyed with maize meal or rice.
Coastal and river fish stews prepared with local herbs, often served with maize meal or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, kapana stalls, millet products, and traditional snacks—great for immersive photography and tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or brief nod when meeting someone; address elders with respect.
Always ask before photographing people or private homes; some communities may prefer not to be photographed.
Dresses and clothing should be modest in public spaces; remove hats indoors if requested.
Show respect for rural hosts and traditional customs during village visits.
Safety
Tipping in Oshakati
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (5–10%) are appreciated for good service in restaurants and bars; for excellent service, 10–15% is common.
Cash in NAD or ZAR is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards, though some smaller stalls prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr: hot temperatures with frequent short afternoon rain showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat; thunderstorms can affect travel plans.
May–Aug: dry and cooler with pleasant daytime warmth but chilly nights; light layers are best; mornings can be misty.
Oshakati at Night
Hiking in Oshakati
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Longer hikes and wildlife-viewing routes near the park’s edge offer opportunities to combine hiking with safaris.
Shorter scenic walks through savanna landscapes, watercourses, and open plains near the town.
Airports
How to reach Oshakati by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic flights to Windhoek; about 100–150 km north of Oshakati, accessible by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant local group with a rich cultural heritage, language, and crafts.
A mix of residents from neighboring regions and cross-border workers contributing to town life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and informal matches in town and on school fields.
A common sport among women and girls, with community clubs and tournaments.
Cultural competitions and community events celebrating local athletic traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oshakati.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable stews, maize meal or mahangu porridge, salads, and rice dishes; many eateries can adapt dishes to be meat-free.