We let the tour group start their program and wait until the dust of departure has settled. Then we get up and order a large omelette with everything for breakfast. With a start like that, the day can only be good.

From Mount Etjo we drive over the pad (gravel track) to the B1 and from there quickly over the tarmac road to Okahandja, where we look at the Peace Church. Right next to the church is an old cemetery where the old enemies of the Herero wars are buried next to each other. The graves of the Schutztruppe are rather simple, while those of the Herero chiefs are magnificent and decorated with a lot of pomp.

Unfortunately, we find that Cultural Village at the junction of the B1 and the Hochfeld Road (C31) near Okahandha is closed and only a mobile number indicates that you have to register in advance. We don't plan to do this in view of the time, as we still have some distance to drive. Anyone who wants to visit the relatively new museum with an exhibition of residential buildings of the various ethnic groups in Namibia (Damara, Tswana, Caprivi, Himba, Herero, Owambo and San) should definitely register in advance.

In Okahandha we also visit the famous wood carving market, which now exists twice in the small town. The reason for this may be the large fire that almost completely burned down the old market in the city center. Many new stalls have now sprung up there, selling wood carvings, textiles and metal sculptures. Here we let ourselves be carried away by the offerings and even the children find their fun in haggling. At the end we have collected a few large and small souvenirs and escape from the exuberant enthusiasm for trading of the locals.

We continue on to Windhoek, where we do a few purchases and fill up with petrol. The town, which previously seemed provincial, now seems like a big city with lots of people and corresponding traffic. After more than two weeks of Namibian expanse and solitude, we have become accustomed to the peace and quiet of southern Africa and it is almost difficult to accept the hustle and bustle on the road. Finally, we leave Windhoek behind us and drive to the airport and beyond in the direction of Gobabis. After the airport, we get back on the road and after a few railway crossings and dry rivers we come to the entrance to Sigi and Heide Baas's Ombuerendende farm. This access road is 8 km long, however, and the children have to open and close a few cattle gates.

When we arrive at the farm, we are warmly welcomed by our hosts and allowed to move into our beautiful rooms. At Ombuerendende, family connections are guaranteed and we get to know the owners, the two nephews, seven dogs and the cat. The children are particularly happy about the opportunity to pet a dog almost any time. Meanwhile, we adults enjoy the sundowner under the huge eucalyptus tree and enjoy the wonderful view of the artificial reservoir.

Weather

• Sunrise and sunset: 6:56 a.m. – 6:43 p.m.
• Temperature: 0°C at night and 26°C during the day
• Weather conditions during the stay: sunny

Accommodation

Rating: The farm is not far from the international airport and yet is in the middle of nowhere. You immediately feel like a family and welcome. You can experience the farm's operations up close and the herds of cattle and goats determine the daily routine. Nevertheless, the hosts always have time and a tour of the grounds to check the watering holes ("posts") is not to be missed. The rooms are functionally furnished and free WiFi allows you to quickly contact home.

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