Mbunza Living Museum Travel Guide: Top Sights in Namibia, Tours &

⁰

Mbunza Living Museum- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Namibia; 5 Reviews

+1 Photos

Suggested Duration: 3 hours

Nestled on the shores of Samsitu Lake, roughly 14 km west of Rundu, Mbunza Living Museum presents a living reconstruction of a traditional Kavango village where the Mbunza people—who have inhabited this region for centuries—share their pre-colonial way of life using structures made entirely from natural materials. Visitors observe artisans dressed in garments crafted from self-tanned leather—and refined with Mangetti nut oil—recreated based on historical photographs. The site operates as both a cultural school and a community enterprise, safeguarding traditions while contributing to local livelihoods. Interactive experiences span traditional cuisine, fire-making, basket and mat weaving, as well as bushwalks and fishing. More specialized crafts demonstrated include blacksmithing, pottery, drum-making, and storytelling in Rukwangali, with guides translating into English. An on-site campsite with basic amenities allows guests to linger in this lakeside setting—bringing cultural discovery and the calm of the Kavango together in one place.

Operators offering tours in Namibia

Attractions in Namibia

Sossusvlei

Etosha National Park

4.2

Windhoek

Walvis Bay

Swakopmund

Luderitz

Kolmanskop

Twyfelfontein

4.4

Reviews of Mbunza Living Museum

Guido Haak

5
Reviewed: 2025-08-15

Very sympathetic staff. Nice atmosphere. Yes, this is probably not a very authentic village experience but you still learn a lot. We could compare it to another living museum in Damaraland. this here was better.
Hugh Kennedy

5
Reviewed: 2025-07-10

A worthwhile experience. Well thought out demonstrations give insight into tribal life, with friendly and happy staff clearly benefitting from the programme
Reinhold Rothkegel

5
Reviewed: 2025-05-31

The best Living Museum we ever visited. Definitely worthwhile a visit.
Michael Kreutzinger

5
Reviewed: 2024-10-15

Nice place good idee. Come and visit..
Ludo Vavali

5
Reviewed: 2023-12-14

Mbuza living museum is actually a must to visit when you pass Rundu. I was pleasantly surprised with their professionalism. The guide does an excellent job and you can see how people in the tribe were living in their community. You can see and experience their skills. At the end of the visit you are treated with a sing and dance performance. Absolutely stunning. We were impressed with their enthusiasm while performing. It's a must visit for young and old.