Fodor's Expert Review Katutura

Windhoek Neighborhood

Created in the early 1960s for the forced evictions of blacks from the town center under Apartheid, Windhoek's vast informal settlement (Katutura) translates to 'The place where people do not want to live' in the Otjiherero language. It now houses more than half of the capital city's population and makes for an insightful guided tour. You will learn about the Old Location Uprising and the reason why Namibia commemorates Human Rights Day on 10 December each year. Be sure to visit the Oshetu Market ("our market"), where northern Namibian fare like mopane worms and dried patties of a type of local spinach are sold, and whose bustling meat market includes a barbeque area where the adventurous can try succulent slices of all types of roasted meat, dipped in a mixture of salt and chili. You can also have the chance to engage with community members and small business owners, while visiting various NGO projects in the informal settlement.

Be sure... READ MORE

Created in the early 1960s for the forced evictions of blacks from the town center under Apartheid, Windhoek's vast informal settlement (Katutura) translates to 'The place where people do not want to live' in the Otjiherero language. It now houses more than half of the capital city's population and makes for an insightful guided tour. You will learn about the Old Location Uprising and the reason why Namibia commemorates Human Rights Day on 10 December each year. Be sure to visit the Oshetu Market ("our market"), where northern Namibian fare like mopane worms and dried patties of a type of local spinach are sold, and whose bustling meat market includes a barbeque area where the adventurous can try succulent slices of all types of roasted meat, dipped in a mixture of salt and chili. You can also have the chance to engage with community members and small business owners, while visiting various NGO projects in the informal settlement.

Be sure to go with a guide, who can navigate the dirt roads and provide commentary; Katu Tours and Safaris (a Black, female-owned company) does this via bicycle (12km, 3.5 hours, two daily departures) and it's one of the best ways to experience it.

READ LESS
Neighborhood

Quick Facts

Independence Ave.
Windhoek, Khomas  Namibia

264-81-303--2856

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: Tours N$750 per person

What’s Nearby