Omaruru: Namibia's Hidden Gem

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeTotsiens
  [toat-ziens]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAsseblief
  [ah-se-blief]
• Thank youDankie
  [dun-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryVerskoon my
  [fer-skoon may]
• How are you?Hoe gaan dit met jou?
  [hoo khan dit met yo]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khut. en met yo]
• Do you speak English?Praat jy Engels?
  [prat ye en-gels]
• I don't understandEk verstaan nie
  [eck verst-an nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil graag die spyskaart sien, asseblief
  [eck vil khraaig dee spay-skaart seen, ah-se-blief]
• I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
  [eck ait nee flay-s nee]
• Cheers!Gesondheid!
  [guh-sund-hate]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil graag betaal, asseblief
  [eck vil khraaig buh-taal, ah-se-blief]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Gaan weg!
  [khaan vayg]
• Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
  [bell dee po-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Bel 'n dokter!
  [bell un dock-ter]
• I'm lostEk is verlore
  [eck is fuh-lohr]
• I'm illEk is siek
  [eck is seek]

• I'd like to buy...Ek wil koop...
  [eck vil kohp]
• I'm just lookingEk kyk net
  [eck kike net]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
  [hoo-fail kohs dit]
• That's too expensiveDit is te duur
  [dit is tay duur]
• Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys verlaag?
  [kahn yee dee prayss fay-laahg]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
  [hoo laht is dit]
• It's one o'clockDit is een uur
  [dit is ain ur]
• Half past (10)Half tien
  [half teen]
• MorningOggend
  [oh-khent]
• AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-dakh]
• EveningAand
  [ahnt]
• YesterdayGister
  [khist-er]
• TodayVandag
  [fun-dahg]
• TomorrowMôre
  [mo-reh]
• 1Een
  [ain]
• 2Twee
  [tuh-vee]
• 3Drie
  [dree]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Vyf
  [fayf]
• 6Ses
  [says]
• 7Sewe
  [say-vee]
• 8Agt
  [ahgt]
• 9Nege
  [nay-guh]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Waar's 'n/die...?
  [vahrss un/dee]
• What's the address?Wat is die adres?
  [vat is dee ah-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy my wys (op die kaart)?
  [kahn yee may vays (op dee kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
  [vun-ear is dee full-hen-de (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)'n Kaartjie (na ....)
  [un kart-yuh (nah)]

Omaruru, situated in central Namibia, was originally inhabited by the San people, who lived as hunter-gatherers in the region. The town itself was officially founded in 1863 by Wilhelm Zeraua, a leader of the Herero people, who sought refuge from the warring Nama tribes. Omaruru quickly became an important trade hub for the surrounding areas.

In the late 19th century, Namibia, then known as German South West Africa, came under German colonial rule. Omaruru became a significant location for German settlers. In 1904, during the Herero and Namaqua genocide, Omaruru was the site of several confrontations between the German colonial forces and the local Herero people. Despite the conflict, German architectural influences can still be seen in many of Omaruru's buildings.

One of the key historical events in Omaruru was the Battle of Omaruru, which took place in February 1904. The Herero people, led by Chief Samuel Maharero, launched an attack against the German fort in Omaruru. Although the Herero forces initially had the upper hand, the Germans eventually repelled the attack. This battle was part of a larger conflict that had lasting repercussions on the Herero population.

Omaruru, like the rest of Namibia, experienced significant changes after the end of World War I when the territory came under South African administration. The town continued to develop, albeit slowly, during this period. Namibia eventually gained independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990. Since then, Omaruru has grown into a vibrant community, blending its rich historical past with modern development.

Today, Omaruru is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. The town hosts the annual Omaruru Arts Festival, which attracts artists and visitors from all over Namibia and beyond. The event showcases local crafts, music, and performances, celebrating the town's artistic heritage. Additionally, the annual Wine Festival highlights Omaruru's growing reputation as a center for viticulture in Namibia.

Omaruru boasts several historical landmarks that reflect its rich history. The Franke Tower, built in 1907, commemorates Captain Victor Franke, a German officer who played a significant role in the colonial wars. The Omaruru Museum, housed in the old German fort, offers a comprehensive look at the town's history, including exhibits on the indigenous peoples, colonial era, and post-independence developments. The Kristall Kellerei winery is another notable site, representing the town's modern-day cultural and economic activities.

Omaruru is located in the Erongo Region of Namibia. The nearest international airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, approximately 240 kilometers away. From Windhoek, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Omaruru. The drive typically takes around 3 hours via the B2 national road. Alternatively, you can catch a domestic flight to the smaller Karibib airstrip, which is about 60 kilometers from Omaruru, and then take a taxi or shuttle.

Omaruru is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are available for longer trips within the town and surrounding areas. Car rentals are also an option if you wish to explore more of the Erongo Region at your own pace. There is no local public bus service, but private shuttles can be arranged for excursions.

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and most shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Omaruru, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Omaruru is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no known high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 10177 for medical emergencies. The local police station and a small medical clinic are available in Omaruru. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in more conservative areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Although public buses are not common, if you use private shuttles or taxis, avoid eating or drinking. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It's polite to use formal titles when addressing elders. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to new culinary experiences. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Omaruru like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share their stories and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit local wineries and sample their unique Namibian wines. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Omaruru River and explore the nearby Erongo Mountains for stunning views and hiking opportunities.