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
Onguma Trails Camp
Nestled on the doorstep of Etosha National Park, Onguma Trails Camp offers a truly enchanting escape for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by pristine nature, the camp provides the perfect base to explore the incredible biodiversity of the region, home to a stunning array of species, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Designed to blend comfort with adventure, Onguma Trails Camp features well-appointed accommodations that harmonise with the natural surroundings. From waking up to the sounds of the wilderness to experiencing breathtaking sunsets over the savannah, every moment here is infused with the magic of Africa.
Chobe River Camp
A stay at Chobe River Camp in the stunning Zambezi region of Namibia is an escape into untamed beauty and serene tranquillity. Nestled along the banks of the iconic Chobe River, the camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in nature’s finest.
The camp’s 20 tented suites harmoniously blend rustic charm with modern comforts, designed to provide an authentic yet luxurious safari experience. Each suite reflects the natural essence of the landscape while ensuring warmth and privacy.
Windhoek Country Club
The Windhoek Country Club stands as the number one destination for luxury and entertainment throughout Windhoek, Namibia. The hotel stands out as a popular choice because it merges luxury with comfort. The hotel provides perfect relaxation through its attractive rooms and professional service alongside its peaceful desert environment.
The resort sits near the city centre yet provides guests with an ideal escape into tranquillity. The combination of a golf course and casino at the hotel site makes it an excellent choice for business and leisure travellers.
Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge
Situated in the iconic Skeleton Coast National Park, the Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge offers a unique escape into one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Imagine towering sand dunes, dramatic coastlines, and the icy Atlantic Ocean set against wind-swept plains.
Shipwreck Lodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that immerses you in the heart of nature’s grandeur. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create an unforgettable adventure, blending luxury with the rugged charm of the Skeleton Coast.
Swakopmund Sands Guesthouse
Swakopmund Sands is situated within the beautiful Swakopmund region of Namibia, where guests can enjoy comfortable coastal living. The welcoming resort provides stunning views of the Namib Desert and Atlantic Ocean from its location, which generates a peaceful atmosphere for its guests.
Its strategic location in the centre of Swakopmund allows visitors to explore the charming town, which combines German colonial architecture with Namibian hospitality.
The Pearls Beach Pods
The Pearls Beach Pods stand on Namibia's desert coastline near Swakopmund as an attractive destination for travellers. The pod accommodations at The Pearls Beach Pods deliver both comfortable relaxation and exciting outdoor adventures to travellers who want peaceful accommodations while discovering Namibian natural attractions.
A visit to The Pearls Beach Pods will deliver an unforgettable encounter for every occasion. The modern pods at The Pearls Beach Pods provide the ideal retreat for families on safari, couples on honeymoon, or anyone seeking beach relaxation.
Kalahari Anib Lodge
In the heart of the Kalahari Desert, Kalahari Anib Lodge offers an unforgettable escape. Surrounded by red sands and endless horizons, it's the perfect base to experience the desert's unique beauty.
At Kalahari Anib Lodge, guests can enjoy warm Namibian hospitality and activities to explore the region's natural beauty. Go on a game drive to spot wildlife, take a peaceful sunset walk, or relax by the pool and soak in the desert's calm.
Nambwa Tented Lodge
Located in the stunning Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge combines luxury with wilderness. Set along the Kwando River, this exclusive retreat is surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Zambezi region.
Here, guests can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature, from the gentle rustle of the trees to the calls of the abundant wildlife that roam freely in the area. The lodge seamlessly blends comfort with adventure, offering an authentic African safari experience.