Oshana, Namibia Travel Guide

Discover Oshana, the vibrant region in northern Namibia, where tradition, culture, and natural beauty come together to offer an unforgettable travel experience.

Oshana, located in northern Namibia, is a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. This region is a perfect destination for tourists looking to experience authentic Namibian life. The landscape is characterized by its flat terrain and seasonal wetlands, known as 'Oshanas,' which are unique to this part of the world. These wetlands create a stunning panorama, especially during the rainy season, when they come to life with vibrant greenery and birdlife. The town of Oshakati, the largest in the region, serves as a bustling hub of activity. Here, visitors can explore local markets brimming with crafts, textiles, and traditional foods. Oshakati offers a genuine insight into the daily life of the Oshiwambo people, with their rich traditions and warm hospitality. Don't miss the chance to visit the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair, a major event that showcases local products, culture, and innovation. For history enthusiasts, Oshana has noteworthy historical sites. The Nakambale Museum in Olukonda provides a glimpse into the missionary history and the life of the Finnish missionary Martti Rautanen. Additionally, the Etango Cultural Village offers an immersive experience into the customs, dances, and rituals of the local communities. Nature lovers will appreciate the region's bird-watching opportunities and the peaceful ambiance of the rural landscapes.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oshana.

Visit during the rainy season (November to April) to see the Oshanas in full bloom.
Explore local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and best bargains.
Attend the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair in August for a lively cultural experience.
Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and customs of the Oshiwambo people.
Carry cash, as many local vendors do not accept credit cards.

Top City Travel Guides in Oshana

The cities of Oshana, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Ongwediva

Oshakati

Destinations in Oshana

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Etosha National Park

Explore Oshana: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Discover the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, a stunning nature preserve showcasing thousands of Cape fur seals along Namibia's breathtaking coastline.

4.3

Dune 7

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dune 7, a towering dune in Walvis Bay, Namibia, offering stunning views and thrilling sandboarding adventures.

4.2

Namib Sky Balloon Safaris

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Namib Desert with Namib Sky Balloon Safaris, offering unforgettable aerial views and serene experiences.

4.8

Moringa Waterhole Viewpoint

Explore the stunning Moringa Waterhole Viewpoint in a national park, where wildlife thrives and nature's beauty unfolds before your eyes.

4.7

Best landmarks in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Etosha National Park

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Etosha National Park, a premier safari destination in Namibia for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.5

Deadvlei

Explore the surreal beauty of Deadvlei, a breathtaking clay pan surrounded by towering dunes and ancient trees in Namibia's stunning Namib Desert.

4.9

Oshana Mall

Explore Oshana Mall in Ongwediva, a vibrant outlet mall blending local culture with diverse retail options and culinary delights.

4.2

Okaukuejo Etosha

Explore Okaukuejo Etosha, a stunning wildlife haven in Namibia's Etosha National Park, where unforgettable adventures await amidst breathtaking landscapes.

4.6

Best restaurants in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Joe's Beerhouse

Experience authentic Namibian flavors at Joe's Beerhouse in Windhoek – where culture meets culinary delight.

4.4

The Tug Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at The Tug Restaurant in Swakopmund - where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.

4.4

Oshakati Guesthouse

Experience authentic Namibian cuisine at Oshakati Guesthouse – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

Silver Wolf Spur

Discover the best of Namibian cuisine at Silver Wolf Spur – where family dining meets flavorful steakhouse experiences.

3.9

Best bars in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Smallpark - Ondangwa

Experience the lively culinary scene at Smallpark in Ondangwa, where delicious food and live music create unforgettable memories.

3.9

Baywatch View

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Baywatch View, Ongwediva's charming and affordable bar.

3.6

Tropicana Bar

Experience the vibrant local nightlife at Tropicana Bar in Ongwediva, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await.

3.9

Oshamale Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Oshamale Bar, a must-visit bar in Oshakati for an authentic local experience.

3.6

Best nightclubs in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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Classic Lounge, Ondangwa

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ondangwa at Classic Lounge, where great music and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.2

Bush Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bush Bar in Ongwediva, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together for an unforgettable night out.

3.9

Oshakati Golf Club

Discover the Oshakati Golf Club: a scenic escape in Namibia for golf enthusiasts and tourists alike, blending sport with local culture.

3.9

J&M lounge

Experience the vibrant ambiance of J&M Lounge in Onhuno, where relaxation meets exceptional service and delightful drinks.

4.0

Best shops in Oshana

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Oshana Mall

Explore Oshana Mall in Ongwediva for a diverse shopping experience filled with local flavors, fashion, and family-friendly fun.

4.2

Game Oshakati

Explore Game Oshakati, your ultimate shopping destination for a diverse array of local and international products, perfect for every traveler.

4.0

Choppies Supermarket Ondangwa

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Choppies Supermarket Ondangwa, where local flavors meet convenience and quality.

4.0

WB Supermarkets Oshakati Express

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at WB Supermarkets Oshakati Express, where local flavors meet convenience in a bustling atmosphere.

4.1

Explore Oshana on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Oshana, mapped for you.

Oshana Essentials

Oshana is located in the northern part of Namibia. The nearest international airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, approximately 700 kilometers away. From Windhoek, you can take a domestic flight to Ondangwa Airport, which is about 30 kilometers from Oshana. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or rent a car and drive, which takes around 7-8 hours.
Once in Oshana, you can use local taxis for short distances; they are relatively inexpensive. For longer distances, minibuses (known as 'kombis') operate regularly between towns. Renting a car is also a viable option for exploring the region at your own pace. Note that road conditions can vary, so a 4x4 vehicle may be advisable for certain areas.
The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns like Oshakati and Ondangwa.
Oshana is generally safe for tourists, but it is always prudent to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded places like markets and bus stations. Areas with higher crime rates include parts of Oshakati, so exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 10-111 for police, 10-177 for an ambulance, or 10-999 for fire services. The main hospital in the region is Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, which has emergency services. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in larger towns for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting churches or cultural sites, dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do respect others and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight bow of the head is a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Oshana like a local, visit the bustling open markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Namibian crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss visiting Etosha National Park, just a few hours' drive away, for an unforgettable wildlife experience. For a unique cultural experience, attend one of the local festivals or traditional dance performances.

When is the best time to visit Oshana?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Oshana

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Oshana. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [Hello]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Goodbye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [Please]
- Thank youThank you
  [Thank you]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [Excuse me]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How are you?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [I don't understand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call the Police!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [I'm ill]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just looking]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [That's too expensive]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can you lower the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to....)A ticket (to....)
  [A ticket (to....)]

History of Oshana

The Oshana region, nestled in the northern part of Namibia, has been home to the Ovambo people for centuries. The Ovambo are known for their rich cultural heritage, intricate traditional crafts, and vibrant community life. The region's name itself, 'Oshana,' refers to the shallow, seasonally flooded plains that characterize the landscape. These plains have sustained the agricultural practices of the Ovambo, particularly the cultivation of millet and the raising of livestock.
In the late 19th century, the Oshana region, along with the rest of Namibia, came under German colonial rule. The German occupation brought significant changes to the region, including the establishment of missions and trading posts. The colonial period was marked by conflicts and resistance from the local populations, who fought to preserve their autonomy and way of life. The legacy of this period is still visible in some of the architectural remnants and place names in the region.
Following World War I, Namibia fell under South African administration, which introduced the apartheid system to the region. The Oshana region, like many other parts of Namibia, experienced significant social and economic inequalities during this period. The South African government implemented policies that restricted the movement and opportunities of the local populations. Despite these challenges, the people of Oshana continued to maintain their cultural identity and resist oppressive policies.
The struggle for Namibian independence was a significant chapter in the history of Oshana. The region was a focal point for the activities of the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), which led the fight against South African rule. Many residents of Oshana participated in the liberation struggle, enduring hardships and making sacrifices for the cause of freedom. The region's role in the independence movement is commemorated in various monuments and memorials that dot the landscape.
Namibia gained independence in 1990, marking a new era for the Oshana region. Post-independence, the region has seen significant developments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Ovambo people have also been a priority. Today, Oshana is a vibrant region that balances modern advancements with a deep respect for its historical and cultural roots.