Traditional Villages
The Namibian government encourages cultural tourism as an opportunity for subsistence farmers to earn income.
For some tribes, a 'traditional village' is created for tourist interaction - it includes demonstrations of traditional village homes, chores, music and dance. Of course there is always a shop - which has authentic local crafts. The villagers also use the locations to teach their children traditions they don't learn in school or in a modern village.
Some lodges employ local tribes people in a traditional setting to showcase their talents.
The Himba have no permanent settlements and offer visits to their current villages.
The HIMBA
The Himba are a semi nomadic tribe of peoples located mostly in Namibia. They engage in seasonal farming of maize and melons, but their primary source of status, wealth and income is their cattle consisting of cows, goats and donkeys.
Their way of life is changing rapidly - children mostly go to school - many have cell phones. Modern clothing is worn when travelling to the towns, but the women, particularly, are proud of their heritage and continue to dress as their ancestors have while at home.
The village elder determines whether his location will participate in hosting tourists. Tourists bring gifts consisting of staples such as rice and flour and pay an entrance fee. In exchange your local Himba guide (generally a young, educated tribe member) will explain their customs and beliefs. Polite behaviour is expected recognizing this is a cultural exchange and not a 'people in a zoo'. Afterwards there is always a shopping opportunity of items made by the extended tribe - usually the women and children. Photography is expected - your fee benefits the village. Should anyone not be comfortable with cameras they retreat to their homes.
Despite my misgivings, the local Himba guides encouraged participation as it benefits the community you visit.
Note: The Himba traditionally dress topless - both men and women dress in animal skins from the waist down.
The HERERO
The Herero are closely related to the Himba by language and culture and in some villages they intermingle.
The 'traditional dress' here is a Victorian style dress with a scarf head dress that resembles the horns of cattle.
The SAN
No longer known as 'bushmen', the San are hunter/gatherers and struggling as a people since they have been displaced from their lands and are economically disadvantaged.
Several of the local lodges and conservancies are working to assist them with opportunities for education, health care and employment.
The CAPRIVI
Kwando Traditional Village - they'll also show you their modern village too if you have time
Guides have learned 3 or 4 languages
Medicine Man
