Himba Village — Otjikandero

Intro

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Kaokoland, the Himba village near Onjowewe offers travellers a rare opportunity to experience one of Namibia’s most iconic cultures. Rooted in tradition, the Himba people welcome visitors to discover their way of life in a spirit of respect and exchange.

Culture & daily life

The Himba are renowned for their striking ochre body adornments, intricate hairstyles, and traditional attire. Each detail tells a story of identity, heritage, and connection to nature, passed on from generation to generation.

The visitor experience

A guided visit offers insight into daily practices such as milking cattle, crafting jewellery, or preparing traditional food. Guests are encouraged to listen, learn, and engage respectfully, creating an authentic cultural encounter. Lunch or dinner with the community can be arranged.

Ethics & sustainability

Visits are carried out with full respect for the Himba community. Contributions directly support the village, ensuring that tourism remains fair, sustainable, and beneficial to the families who welcome travellers.

The story of the village

The Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village Project began in 1999, when Jaco Burger met Uakurisa Mukajo Mbahono, the last queen of her line. Unable to have children due to illness, she joined Jaco in creating a place where Himba orphans could find a home and grow up within their traditions.

In 2001 the project was moved to Jaco’s family farm near Kamanjab, where the village was officially established. The children welcomed here came from tragic circumstances — orphans of disease and accidents, or children whose families could not provide for them.

The aim of the project has always been clear: to preserve Himba culture while providing protection, education, and a strong cultural identity. To ensure this, Himba families from Kaokoland take turns living in the village with their own children, passing on the language, dress, and traditions of their ancestors.

In 2011 the Otjikandero Community Trust was created to support the project through community tourism and private donations. Today it supports 45 orphans, dozens of volunteer families, and contributes to education and healthcare in the wider region.

Who is in control

The quality and ethics of the experience are all about who is in control. The village is managed under the authority of the Otjikandero Community Trust (T363/11), whose mandate is:

• Preservation of Himba culture, and caretaking of Himba women and children.
• School opportunities for the children and salaries for teachers and guides.
• Three local Himba trustees ensure villagers are part of decision-making and benefit directly from the Trust.