Maltahöhe Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Maltahöhe, Namibia with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.


Introduction to Maltahöhe

Maltahöhe, a town in Namibia’s Hardap region, is a hidden gem famed for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and cultural attractions. The town is surrounded by spectacular mountains with rare and elusive animals such as leopard, kudu, and springbok. Popular with both leisure and adventure travelers, Maltahöhe offers a glimpse into Namibian culture and heritage, from its local museums to its traditional markets.

List of Places to Visit in Maltahöhe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. The Stampriet Historical Guesthouse and Museum: A historical landmark in Namibia, this museum in Stampriet, Maltahöhe, showcases works by local artists and several other exhibitions. The guesthouse features uniquely themed rooms.

2. The Naute Game Park: With a focus on conservation and community development, this park offers excellent wildlife viewing of various antelope species and zebras. It has a restaurant that serves authentic Namibian cuisine.

3. The Abu Gabi Cave: Located in the foothills of the Naukluft Mountains, the cave is believed to have served as a shelter for bygone hunters and gatherers. The cave has San rock paintings well worth seeing.

Natural Attractions of Maltahöhe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Spreetshoogte Pass: This winding mountain road offers an adrenaline-pumping ascent for adventurous travelers, with its steep bends and hairpin turns. At the top, visitors can experience spectacular views.

2. Namib-Naukluft National Park: Home to the largest sand dunes in the world, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers in Maltahöhe. Visitors can take scenic drives, hike through the towering dunes, or explore the park’s canyon and vast plains.

3. Spitzkoppe: This granite peak is one of Namibia’s most famous natural landmarks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding savannah and mountains. It is a popular spot for photographers and rock climbers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maltahöhe

The Tsaris Mountains

The Tsaris Mountains in Maltahöhe offer a multitude of hiking and biking trails, varying in degree of difficulty. These trails are famous for their spectacular views and exciting terrain.

The Naukluft Mountains

Another popular hiking and biking trail route in Maltahöhe is the Naukluft Mountains which provide magnificent views of the Namib Desert and Wildlife Reserve.

Best Things to Do in Maltahöhe: Activities and Tours

Hot Air Balloon Safari

Rising before dawn and starting with a cup of tea or coffee, visitors will be then whisked off in a hot-air balloon, to witness the stunning Namibian sunrise over the red dunes.

Premium Wine Tasting Tour

Namibia has recently started producing an excellent brand of wine, and there are various vineyards in the area for tourists, including Neuras wine estate.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maltahöhe

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek Day 2: Windhoek to Maltahöhe Day 3-4: Exploring Maltahöhe’s museums, historical sites, and cultural attractions Day 5: Hiking/biking in Tsaris Mountains or Naukluft Mountains Day 6: Hot air balloon safari Day 7: Premium wine-tasting tour Day 8: Departure from Maltahöhe

Food and Drink Scene of Maltahöhe

Must-Try Dishes

Namibian cuisine has a unique blend of indigenous and European flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Maltahöhe.

1. Meat Dishes: Namibia is a meat-loving country with various kinds of game animals. Try venison, beef, or lamb dishes.

2. Kapana: This dish is Namibian street food that consists of sliced beef grilled on an open fire and enjoyed with spice on its own.

Local Beverages

1. Windhoek Lager: This beer is Namibia’s most famous and most loved beer worldwide.

2. Rooibos Tea: It is an indigenous tea plant in Namibia that is drunk with milk and sugar or just by itself.

Where to Stay in Maltahöhe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Rhein Hotel

The Rhein Hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay with its stylish rooms, stunning views, and excellent customer service.

The Alte Kalköfen Lodge

The Alte Kalköfen Lodge is a budget-friendly lodge with comfortable rooms, and it offers a great location for either exploring or relaxing.

What to Buy in Maltahöhe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Karosses

Karosses are handmade, tufted rugs created by the San bushmen in Namibia. Each kaross is unique and is an excellent souvenir to take back home.

Namibian Diamonds

Namibia is world-famous for its high-quality diamonds. Visitors to Maltahöhe can purchase Namibian diamonds from nearby jewelry stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Maltahöhe

Maltahöhe has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that travelers should explore, including traditional dances, music, and artwork. The locals are friendly and welcoming, so always take time to learn and appreciate their culture.

Best Time to Visit Maltahöhe

The best time to visit Maltahöhe is from April to September. This period offers the best weather conditions, and the temperature is comfortable for travelers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maltahöhe

Do:

  • Learn about Namibian culture and customs.
  • Respect natural resources.
  • Try local cuisine.
  • Support the local economy by purchasing locally made products.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Feed or approach wild animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maltahöhe

Maltahöhe is a safe place to visit, and tourists should not be too concerned about their safety. However, it is always wise to take the usual safety precautions such as keeping valuables safe, especially at night.

Health in Maltahöhe

It is always advisable to visit your doctor for preventive medications before traveling to Maltahöhe. The quality of health care in Maltahöhe is good but can be limited, so take basic health precautions, such as avoiding unfiltered water.

Getting to Maltahöhe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maltahöhe

The nearest airport from Maltahöhe is Hosea Kutako International Airport, located about 200 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Maltahöhe

There is a bus station in Windhoek, which is the nearest and most convenient option for travelers heading to Maltahöhe.

Other Options

Travelers may also choose to hire a car rental and drive to Maltahöhe; self-driving through Namibia is a popular option.

How to Get Around in Maltahöhe

The best way to get around Maltahöhe is by car rental. There are car rental companies in town, and most tourist activities are located outside of town.

Where to Go Next from Maltahöhe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Maltahöhe can also explore nearby attractions such as:

  • Hardap Dam
  • Mariental
  • Keetmanshoop

Conclusion

Maltahöhe is a hidden gem and a must-visit for travelers who are looking for nature, culture, and adventure. With its scenic beauty, hospitable people, and rich cultural heritage, Maltahöhe is undoubtedly an unforgettable destination.