For most travellers the destination is often the reward. Namibia is often associated with beautiful landscapes, the red dunes along the coast and wildlife encounters. But as Marcel Proust said: “The real voyage of discovery consists not of seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”
It is the stories and the culture of the destination that remain. Namibia is one of the few countries that preserves the ancient culture through living museums. Technology has changed the world on a grand scale and made it possible for people in the most remote places on earth to connect with other thousands of kilometres away. Often, this results in the old ways of living transforming to more modern styles and techniques. There are only a few groups left that strive to preserve the traditional ways of living.
Living museums are lesser-known experiences but are true cultural treasures where survival skills are being preserved. For those wondering what a living museum is, it is a museum but not in the traditional sense. There are no glass cases with antiques hiding away; instead, they are open air centres where indigenous communities actively showcase and teach visitors their survival skills and crafts. These skills include making fire without the help of matches or firelighters, how to hunt with a bow and arrow and how to forage for edible plants.
Photo credits: Janke Murray
There are several living museums of different ethnic groups that include the Ju/’Hoansi San, the Damara, Himba, Mafwe and Mbunza Living Museums. Although the people nowadays live in small village and have access to grocery shops, they still preserve their traditional skills that have been passed on by many generations and they share their knowledge with the rest of the world. The Ju/’Hoansi-San is the only cultural group that is actually allowed to officially hunt in the traditional manner.
This makes for an exceptional experience as visitors have the opportunity to take part in such a unique hunt. Visitors will learn about the poisoned arrows, how to dig out spring hares, and porcupines and many other birds. In the fast-evolving world today these museums preserve the indigenous cultures that are often marginalised. These museums are run by the communities themselves, ensuring that the portrayal of culture is authentic. It is also a means of income to these communities and a way to reclaim pride in their heritage.
Because visitors partake in the activities, they leave with new skills and a deeper understanding. Namibia has many natural wonders, but it is the stories, smiles and experiences that make the journey worthwhile. It is the warm welcomes of the Namibians that make the visit an unforgettable experience. For those travellers who seek not just to see but to connect, these living museums is a true hidden gem.
Author: Janke Murray