Update: 2021
Should you be interested, please have a look at this link for more information for 'Windhoek Oktoberfest' 2021 and onwards: https://www.oktoberfestnamibia.com/ (images on this page are copyrighted and belong to oktoberfestnamibia.com). Let us support all in the travel and hospitality industry in Africa; we all need it.
That being said;
The main event in Munich finished earlier this month on the 5th of October. The Windhoek Oktoberfest may not compete with over six million patrons and 7.5 million litres of beer drunk (enough to fill three Olympic swimming pools), but in its own way, it is flying the flag for the reputation of good beer and hospitality in this southwestern corner of Africa.
On the 25th and 26th of October, the Sports Klub Windhoek will host the 55th edition of the Oktoberfest. Over 5000 people are expected to attend (compared to 1000 in 2010). There are similarities to Munich, of course. The women waitresses wear traditional dirndl dresses, the men wear lederhosen, the beer is served in steins, and the Kirchdorfer band (the main band during the Munich festival) will be playing. Traditional German delicacies of Hendl (grilled chicken), Brezel (huge pretzels) and Shweinshaxe (pork knuckles) will be served.
Adding a certain local flavour will be the Namibian band Famaz Attak, and there will be long-established activities and games like archery and tree trunk sawing.
The main event is the beer, of course. Most beers will be provided by Namibian Breweries (NB) who adhere strictly to the age-old German rules of the Reinheitsgebot. This 'purity law' was enacted in 1516 to control beer quality standards and stipulates certain conditions such as the recipe can only include barley, malt, yeast, and hops. NB will be bringing out a special festival brew of Hansa beer. I am a big fan of the clean taste of the local Namibian brews, especially the flagship Windhoek lager.
It takes a certain suspension of belief and environment to be at an Oktoberfest in southern Africa with an average temperature of 22°c, but if any country can carry it off, it is Namibia. This former German colony is peppered with solid German architecture, and there are a significant number of locals who speak German and have maintained certain traditions and customs.
The Namibians are also a hospitable lot. No one is too stressed in this corner of Africa, and the locals are quick with a smile and a helping hand. This festival is growing fast, with visitors from all over the world testifying to its popularity. It promises to be a great weekend if you will be able to remember it!
Windhoek Oktoberfest by Uyaphi.com
Wolwedans Boulders Camp
Wolwedans Boulders Camp is best for a 2-night stay and is ideally booked in combination with 1 or 2 nights at any of the other camps in the dunes, which makes for the ultimate dessert experience, sleeping a maximum of 8 guests in 4 spacious tents.
Boulders Camp is located within the private and spectacular NamibRand Nature Reserve.
Büllsport Guestfarm
Büllsport Guestfarm is the perfect option for those who want a bit more of a private experience but without sacrificing location and activities. A small swimming pool is available.
Büllsport is located 155 kilometres drive from Sossusvlei and offers up farm-style accommodation with hiking, horse riding and 4x4 safari activities. Highly recommended.
Mushara Lodge
Located only 8kms from the Von Lindequist Gate on the eastern outskirts of the Etosha National Park, Mushara Lodge is ideally situated for travellers visiting the park, 10 thatched chalets are found in a horseshoe shape around the swimming pool.
Mushara Lodge, home to fantastic wildlife sights and safari experiences.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp
The Hoanib River Camp is located in Damaraland within a few metres of the iconic Hoanib Riverbed that offers up exceptional sightings of desert wildlife and birdlife.
The Hoanib River and Palmwag concession offer up some of the most amazing scenery to be found in Namibia, a truly wild and remote stretch of land waits.
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp is situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in a privately owned Ongava Game Reserve, built from stone, canvas and thatch 16 guests are accommodated in Meru-style tents.
Excellent game viewing and safari drives are on offer, Ongava, one of the best lodges in Etosha.
Namutoni Rest Camp
Namutoni offers Accommodation in either comfortable double rooms or bush chalets and is located on the eastern side of Etosha National Park; it centres on an old German Fort, overlooking the famous King Nehale waterhole.
A viewing deck overlooking the watering hole is one of the highlights when staying here.
Namushasha River Lodge
Namushasha River Lodge on the Kwando River offers easy access to Bwabwata National Park and surrounding wildlife and cultural attractions.
The perfect destination from which to explore and experience the magical wildlife and birdlife on display.
Wolwedans Private Camp
Wolwedans Private Camp offers two spacious en-suite bedrooms, a 'Sala' where one can laze away siestas, various decks, and the central lounge, combining a study, living room, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen.