Gobabis Travel Guide
Discover the rich culture, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventures that make Gobabis, Namibia a must-visit destination. Our comprehensive travel guide provides you with all the information you need to plan your trip, from must-visit attractions and outdoor activities to local cuisine and cultural traditions.
- Introduction to Gobabis
- List of Places to Visit in Gobabis
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Gobabis
- Best Things to Do in Gobabis: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Gobabis
- Food and Drink Scene of Gobabis
- Where to Stay in Gobabis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Gobabis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Gobabis
- Best Time to Visit Gobabis
- Do’s and Don’ts of Gobabis
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Gobabis: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Gobabis
- Where to Go Next from Gobabis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Gobabis
Gobabis is a small town located in the Omaheke region of Namibia, in Southern Africa. Known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Namibia. Gobabis is also known for its warm hospitality, welcoming locals, and traditional festivals. This travel guide provides you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Gobabis, from must-visit attractions and popular activities to local cuisine, cultural traditions, and safety tips.
List of Places to Visit in Gobabis
There are numerous attractions in and around Gobabis that are worth visiting. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Gobabis Museum
- !nara Cultural Village
- Herero Graves
Natural Attractions of Gobabis: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Harnas Wildlife Foundation
- Ghaub Nature Reserve
- Waterberg Plateau Park
- The Omatako Mountains
Hiking/Biking Routes of Gobabis
Gobabis is a favorite destination among hikers and bikers due to its scenic landscapes and natural beauty. The following hiking and biking routes are recommended:
- The Omatako Mountains trail
- The Bushmenland trail
- The Omaheke Hiking Trail
Best Things to Do in Gobabis: Activities and Tours
- Visit The Harnas Wildlife Foundation
- Plan a day trip to the Omatako Mountains
- Learn about the !nara plant and its many uses at the !nara Cultural Village
- Take an off-road safari at the Ghaub Nature Reserve
Week-Long Itinerary for Gobabis
Here is a suggested itinerary for a week in Gobabis:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Gobabis and spend the day exploring the town center. Visit the Gobabis Museum and other historic sites. |
| 2 | Spend the day at the Harnas Wildlife Foundation, learning about the animal conservation projects and taking a guided safari tour. |
| 3 | Take an off-road safari at the Ghaub Nature Reserve and explore the reserve’s diverse wildlife habitats. |
| 4 | Head to the Omatako Mountains for a scenic hike or bike ride, and take in the breathtaking views from the highest peak in the area. |
| 5 | Visit the !nara Cultural Village to learn about the traditional practices of the local communities surrounding Gobabis. |
| 6 | Explore the Waterberg Plateau Park, which is one of Namibia’s most important conservation areas. |
| 7 | Depart from Gobabis and head towards other destinations in Namibia or South Africa. |
Food and Drink Scene of Gobabis
The local cuisine of Gobabis is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Braaivleis: grilled meat, a South African delight
- Mopani worm: a delicacy in Omaheke and the surrounding regions
Local Beverages
- Tafel Lager: a brewed lager, Namibia’s national beer
- Amarula: a cream liqueur made from the fruit of the marula tree
Where to Stay in Gobabis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Gobabis offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:
- Xain Quaz Camp (https://www.xainquaz.com/)
- Gobabis Guesthouse
- Sahara Guesthouse
What to Buy in Gobabis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Gobabis is known for its traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs that make great keepsakes. Here are some of the popular local products to bring home:
- Hand-woven baskets
- Handcrafted jewelry made from ostrich eggshells
- antelope leather products
Local Culture and Customs of Gobabis
Gobabis has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the Herero, Damara, and San peoples, as well as the German settlers who founded the town. Visitors to Gobabis are encouraged to learn about and respect the local customs and traditions, including the annual Ovaherero Youth Festival, a celebration of culture and heritage.
Best Time to Visit Gobabis
The best time to visit Gobabis is during the dry winter season from May to September when the weather is cooler and the skies are clear. However, it’s worth noting that wildlife viewing is better done during the wet season from November to April when the animals are more active and the scenery is lush and green.
Do’s and Don’ts of Gobabis
Do:
- Dress modestly as local customs and religious beliefs in Gobabis can be conservative
- Respect wildlife and nature conservation efforts
- Try traditional cuisine and visit local markets for authentic souvenirs
Don’t:
- Be disrespectful towards locals or their customs
- Litter or pollute the environment
- Ignore safety warnings
Safety and Health
Safety in Gobabis
Gobabis is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any destination, tourists should be cautious and take reasonable precautions, such as not walking alone at night or in isolated areas, and safely storing valuables.
Health in Gobabis
Visitors should take necessary travel vaccinations and precautions to stay in good health including avoiding tap water and wearing mosquito repellant.
Getting to Gobabis: Transportation Options and Logistics
Gobabis can be reached by air, bus or car. Here are some of the transportation options:
Airports Near Gobabis
The nearest international airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), located about 200 km from Gobabis. Air Namibia operates daily flights from Windhoek to Gobabis
Bus Stations Near Gobabis
TransNamib bus company runs regular services to and from Gobabis departing daily from Windhoek.
Other Options
Successful car rental companies such as Avis and Hertz operate out of Windhoek International Airport and customers typically enjoy driving themselves throughout their journey.
How to Get Around in Gobabis
The best way to explore Gobabis and its surroundings is by renting a car or hiring a taxi ride. Additionally visitors can take guided tours to explore the town and it’s many exciting features.
Where to Go Next from Gobabis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Visit Windhoek, Namibia’s vibrant capital city located 200 km from Gobabis.
- Etosha National Park: Etosha National Park is one of the country’s most famous national parks, located about 600 km from Gobabis
Conclusion
Gobabis is a must-visit destination in Namibia, offering unique cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and scenic landscapes. We highly recommend that you include Gobabis in your itinerary while you’re in Namibia! With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re well equipped to plan your trip, get the most out of your time in Gobabis, and have an unforgettable experience.
