BAOBABS - ICONS OF THE NORTH

Willie Olivier
The baobab is one of the most iconic trees in northern Namibia. These gigantic trees have served as landmarks for travellers, resting places and vantage points.
OMBALANTU BAOBAB
The Ombalantu baobab at Outapi is by far the best-known baobab in northern Namibia. Locally known as Omukwa wa Nakafingo na Temba, it is estimated to be between 700 and 800 years old and has a height of about 20 m. The tree has been used as a lookout for approaching enemy forces, a post office and a chapel. Four camping sites, each with its own braai area, and communal ablutions, have been laid out around the tree. There is also a small kiosk, craft centre and facilities for day visitors.
OKAHAO BAOBAB
The Okahao Baobab was declared a national heritage place in September 2011. The tree was used by the South African military to interrogate, torture and hang people who were suspected of being sympathetic to Swapo. Facilities at the site include three camping sites with braaiplaces, hot-water ablutions, a shop where locally made crafts are sold and a kiosk.
TSANDI’S BAOBABS
Tsandi has two noteworthy baobabs. Sir Howard’s Baobab is named after Edmund Howard Lacam Gorges who became the country’s first administrator and visited the area in 1916. The hollow trunk of the baobab at the junction of the Ongulumbashe-Okahao road once served as the office of King Mwaala gwaNashilongo who ruled for 51 years from 1909 to 1960.