Noordoewer Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, and tips for safety and health in Noordoewer, Namibia. Plan your perfect trip with our informative travel guide.


Introduction to Noordoewer

Noordoewer is a charming town located in the ǁKaras region of Namibia, Southern Africa, and is situated on the banks of the Orange River. The town is famous for its beautiful nature, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities. The name Noordoewer means “North Bank” in Afrikaans and refers to its location on the north bank of the Orange River.

This town is a wonderful destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Noordoewer has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Noordoewer

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

There are several museums and historical places in Noordoewer that attract many visitors every year, including:

  • The Noordoewer Cultural Museum: The museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Namibian people, including their traditional customs, arts, and crafts.
  • The Christuskirche: A beautiful historic Lutheran church built-in 1912 that attracts many tourists.
  • Orange River Cellar: A local winery that offers wine tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample some of the best wines in Namibia.
  • The Fish River Canyon: A breathtaking canyon that is one of the largest in the world.

Natural Attractions of Noordoewer: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Noordoewer is home to some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Namibia, including:

  • The Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: A UNESCO world heritage site that is popular for hiking, bird watching and has several scenic viewpoints.
  • The Orange River: The river is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.
  • Aussenkehr Nature Park: This park is well known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and bird watching.
  • The Gondwana Canyon Park: A beautiful park that has several scenic lookout points, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Noordoewer

Noordoewer is a haven for hikers and bikers, with several trails that offer breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • The Fish River Canyon Trail: A challenging hike that takes visitors through the second-largest canyon in the world.
  • The Richtersveld Transfrontier Park Trail: A multi-day hiking trail that takes visitors through the beauty of the Richtersveld region.
  • Aussenkehr Trail: A moderate hiking trail that takes visitors through scenic landscapes.
  • Dassie Trail: A relatively easy trail with stunning views of the mountains, river and canyon.

Best Things to Do in Noordoewer: Activities and Tours

In Noordoewer, there are plenty of activities and tours to choose from, such as:

  • River Rafting: Take a scenic river rafting tour down the Orange River and experience the beauty of the region up close.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the Orange River Cellar and enjoy some of the finest wines in Namibia.
  • Bird Watching: Take a guided bird watching tour and spot some of the rarest bird species in the region.
  • Stargazing: Enjoy the night sky and attend a stargazing tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Noordoewer

For those planning a trip to Noordoewer, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Noordoewer Cultural Museum, Christuskirche, and Orange River Cellar
2 Hike the Fish River Canyon Trail
3 Go rafting down the Orange River
4 Take a wine tour and tasting at the Orange River Cellar
5 Go bird watching in Aussenkehr Nature Park
6 Explore the Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
7 Stargazing and a night camping in the Gondwana Canyon Park

Food and Drink Scene of Noordoewer

Must-Try Dishes

Namibian cuisine is heavily influenced by its German colonial past, with staples such as sausages, schnitzels, and cakes. Some of the most popular dishes in Noordoewer are:

  • Potjiekos: A traditional Namibian stew cooked over an open fire.
  • Biltong: A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, often made from beef or game meat.
  • Boerewors: A sausage made from beef, pork, or lamb, often grilled and served with braai bread.
  • Vetkoek: A fried bread that can be filled with a savoury or sweet filling.
  • Amarula: A cream liqueur made from the fruit of the Marula tree.

Local Beverages

Namibia is known for its beer and wine production, and Noordoewer is no exception. Some of the most popular drinks in the region include:

  • Tafel Lager: A refreshing lager that is a popular choice amongst locals and visitors alike.
  • Windhoek Lager: A popular beer that has been brewed in Namibia since 1920.
  • Shiraz: A full-bodied red wine that is produced in the Orange River region.

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

Noordoewer offers a range of accommodation options for every budget, including:

  • Noordoewer Hotel: A comfortable hotel that offers stunning views of the Orange River.
  • Aussenkehr Guesthouse: Provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards.
  • Orange River Campsite: A popular campsite that offers a range of facilities and activities.
  • Solitaire Desert Farm: A guesthouse and camping option that offers a unique experience in a desert setting.

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

Noordoewer, like many towns in Namibia, offers several unique souvenirs and local products to take home, including:

  • Handmade crafts: These include traditional baskets, pottery, and jewellery made by the locals.
  • Biltong and Droëwors: Namibia’s most popular snack.
  • Amarula: A locally made cream liqueur that is very popular with tourists.
  • Karakul Sheepskin: A unique product made from sheepskin that is tanned and used for various purposes, including clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Noordoewer

The Namibian people are known for their warm hospitality and rich culture. The official language of Namibia is English, but many locals speak Afrikaans and Bantu languages such as Oshiwambo and Herero.

Namibians value family, community, and respect for their elders. Visitors should be aware of cultural customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home and wearing appropriate clothing when visiting a place of worship.

Best Time to Visit Noordoewer

The best time to visit Noordoewer is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers warm days, cool nights, and little to no rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

The wet season, which runs from November to April, can be hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. However, this is also the best time to admire the desert flora in bloom and enjoy the stunning landscapes across the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Noordoewer

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture of the people.
  • Take precautions against insect bites and sunburn.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting places of worship.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of sensitive areas such as military installations or government buildings.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Noordoewer

Namibia is generally considered safe for travellers, and crime levels are relatively low. However, visitors should still take precautions such as locking their valuables in a safe and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Noordoewer

Visitors should take necessary health precautions, such as using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying hydrated. Medical services are available in Noordoewer, but visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation if required.

Getting to Noordoewer: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Noordoewer

The closest airport to Noordoewer is the Keetmanshoop Airport, which is located approximately 120km from the town. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to reach their destination.

Bus Stations Near Noordoewer

The closest bus station to Noordoewer is the Keetmanshoop bus station, which is well connected to most major towns and cities in Namibia. Visitors can take a taxi or rental car to reach Noordoewer from the bus station.

Other Options

Another popular option for getting to Noordoewer is by car. Visitors can rent a car in Windhoek or Keetmanshoop and drive directly to Noordoewer, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.

How to Get Around in Noordoewer

The best way to get around Noordoewer is by car or taxi. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in town, making it easy to explore the various attractions and outdoor activities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Noordoewer: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can enjoy after leaving Noordoewer, including:

  • Aus: A small town known for its wild horses and ghost town.
  • Lüderitz: A popular coastal town that offers stunning beaches and historic attractions.
  • Keetmanshoop: A bustling city that offers a range of accommodation options and tourist attractions.

Conclusion

Noordoewer is a hidden gem in Namibia, offering stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan the perfect trip to Noordoewer and enjoy everything that this wonderful town and the surrounding region have to offer.