Visiting the Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village near Kamanjab

Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village is situated approximately 20 kilometers outside the town of Kamanjab in the Kunene Region of northern Namibia. This community project began in 1999 under the guidance of Jaco Burger—an individual who was adopted into the tribe—and his wife Mukajo, a descendant of the Mbahono bloodline. Today, the village serves as a sanctuary for over 40 orphaned Himba children, providing them with a stable environment where they can grow up within their own cultural framework rather than being assimilated into urban centers. Visitors pay an entrance fee of roughly 350 NAD, which covers a guided tour and contributes directly to the purchase of essential supplies like maize meal and medicine for the residents.

Logistics and Cultural Etiquette

Planning Your Visit and Costs

Reaching the village requires a short drive from Kamanjab, mostly along well-maintained gravel roads that are accessible with a standard sedan, though a 4WD offers more comfort during the rainy season. Most travelers arrive between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, which are the standard operating hours for guided tours. The 350 NAD entry fee is the primary source of revenue for the village trust—an amount that pays for the education of the children and the maintenance of the livestock. While the village sells handcrafted jewelry made by the women, bringing a gift of food is often viewed as a more personal gesture of goodwill. Most guides recommend stopping at a grocery store in Kamanjab to buy a 5-kilogram bag of maize meal, cooking oil, or sugar—items that are far more useful to the community than temporary trinkets.

Photography and Respectful Interaction

Taking photos is generally permitted and included in the entrance fee, but basic rules of respect apply to every interaction. One specific detail often overlooked by tourists is the location of the sacred fire—known as the Okuruwo—which burns between the main cattle kraal and the headman’s hut. You must never walk between this fire and the entrance of the main hut, as this space is considered a holy link to the ancestors. When photographing individuals, a simple nod or asking for permission through your guide goes a long way toward maintaining a friendly atmosphere. Avoid handing out sweets or loose change to the children; such actions encourage begging and can lead to dental issues in a region where professional healthcare is a multi-hour drive away.

History and Daily Traditions

The Founding of Otjikandero

The village exists because of a unique cross-cultural partnership that started when Jaco Burger moved to the Kaokoland region in the late 1990s. After marrying Mukajo and being accepted by the tribal elders, the couple realized that many Himba children were being left vulnerable due to the deaths of parents or the inability of single mothers to survive the harsh semi-nomadic lifestyle. In 2001, the project moved to its current location near Kamanjab to provide better access to water and medical facilities. This move allowed the orphans to stay within a traditional village structure—complete with goats and cattle—while still being close enough to modern schools. This balance ensures that the youth can navigate both the traditional Himba world and the broader Namibian society as they reach adulthood.

The Art of Otjize and Daily Life

Daily life in Otjikandero revolves around the management of livestock and the intricate grooming rituals that define Himba identity. The women are famous for their red skin and hair, a look achieved by applying otjize—a mixture of butterfat, scented resin, and crushed red ochre. This paste is not merely decorative; it serves as a powerful sunscreen and insect repellent in the Namibian heat. Visitors can observe the application process, which can take nearly two hours to complete for a full-body coating. The morning hours are typically the best time to visit because you can see the women milking the cows and tending to the goats before the midday sun forces the community into the shade of their mopane-wood huts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current entrance fee for the village?

Visitors are expected to pay approximately 350 NAD per person, though prices can fluctuate slightly based on the season or group size. This fee includes a local guide who translates and explains the various customs observed during the tour.

What are the most useful gifts to bring for the orphans?

Practical food items like a 5-kilogram bag of maize meal, rice, or cooking oil are the most appreciated contributions. Avoid bringing candy or toys that create waste, as the village focuses on long-term sustainability and basic nutritional needs.

How far is the village from the town of Kamanjab?

The village is located about 20 kilometers from the center of Kamanjab along the road leading toward Outjo. The drive takes about 20 to 30 minutes on gravel roads, and clear signage usually marks the turnoff for the village.

Is photography allowed during the tour?

Yes, photography is permitted and is included in the initial entry fee. Your guide will indicate if there are specific sacred areas or ceremonies where cameras should be put away out of respect for the ancestors.

Are the tours available every day of the week?

The village is open to visitors seven days a week from 8:00 AM until approximately 6:00 PM. Arriving earlier in the morning is recommended to avoid the peak heat and to witness the community's morning chores.