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Ombalantu Baobab Tree

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Historical site
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Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)

Weather…

The Ombalantu Baobab, also known as 'Lekwa', is a monumental giant in the town of Outapi in northern Namibia and is considered one of the country's most significant natural monuments, with an estimated age of about 800 years. The tree possesses an impressive height of 28 meters and a trunk circumference exceeding 26 meters, making it one of the largest baobabs in the region. The history of this tree is closely linked to the social life of the local community: its hollow trunk has served over centuries as a refuge during tribal wars, a post office, and even a chapel. In the 1940s, a small altar was established inside the tree, and the space could accommodate up to 25 people, highlighting the baobab's spiritual significance. Today, the tree is integrated into a well-maintained Heritage Park that provides information about its biological characteristics and historical use. The tree's bark still bears traces of past use, while its broad canopy has an important habitat for local bird species. It remains a living symbol of endurance and protection, attracting travelers who wish to experience the connection between natural history and local lore.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272625242118182125282828
Rain mm1221161243130002113269

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Ombalantu Baobab Tree can be visited at any time as it stands outdoors. The hollow trunk can be entered for a small fee paid on site.
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Typical hours
The tree is accessible 24/7, but the best time to visit is between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM when the information center is open. Evening hours can be unsafe.
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Photography
Photography is allowed at all times, including with a tripod. Flash is unnecessary inside the hollow trunk as natural light is sufficient.
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Time needed
Visiting the baobab tree takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you explore the trunk. If you also visit the small on-site museum, allow one hour.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Etosha National Park, about 150 kilometers away. Alternatively, explore traditional Owambo culture villages in the area.
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Getting there
The tree is located near the town of Outapi in northern Namibia, about 5 kilometers off the main road. A rental car or organized taxi is best, as public transport is infrequent.
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Insider tip
Bring sturdy shoes as the path to the tree is unpaved. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching in the canopy.

Geography

Coordinates
-17.51470, 14.98190

Facts

  • The age of the tree is estimated to be approximately 800 years.
  • The trunk has an impressive circumference of 26.5 meters.
  • The height of this monumental tree is exactly 28 meters.
  • In the 1940s, the hollow interior officially served as a chapel.
  • Formerly, up to 45 people could find refuge inside the trunk.
  • A small altar remains visible inside the tree's hollow chamber today.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

OutapiOutapi2 km · EExplore →
TsandiTsandi28 km · SWExplore →
OkahaoOkahao41 km · WExplore →
OshikukuOshikuku56 km · NExplore →
RuacanaRuacana78 km · SExplore →
Ruacana Hydroelectric Power StationRuacana Hydroelectric Power Station79 km · SExplore →
Fort RoçadasFort Roçadas84 km · EExplore →
OshakatiOshakati85 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Ombalantu Baobab Tree (1)

Ombalantu Baobab Tree📍 landmark

This massive, historic baobab tree attraction features a hollow trunk that once served as a chapel.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Ombalantu Baobab?
It is historically significant as its hollow trunk previously served as a hideout and church.
Can you enter the tree?
Yes, the hollow tree is accessible to visitors.
Do I need a tour guide?
It is recommended to learn the fascinating history, but not mandatory.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Is the place wheelchair accessible?
The area is largely level, but access into the tree is restricted.
Ombalantu Baobab Tree: where is it located?
Ombalantu Baobab Tree is located in Namibia.
Ombalantu Baobab Tree: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
Ombalantu Baobab Tree: why is it worth visiting?
The Ombalantu Baobab, also known as 'Lekwa', is a monumental giant in the town of Outapi in northern Namibia and is considered one of the country's most significant natural monuments, with an estimated age of about 800 years.
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Nearby cities

Tsumeb — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Tsumeb
Known as Namibia's most important historic mining town, famous for its rare minerals.
Outapi — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Outapi
The vibrant capital of the Omusati Region, deeply connected to the northern agricultural plains.
Okahao — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Okahao
A proud settlement known as the heart of the Ongandjera kingdom and the birthplace of Namibia's founding president.
Ruacana — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Ruacana
A settlement situated near a major hydroelectric plant and majestic waterfalls on the Kunene River.
Oshikuku — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Oshikuku
A rapidly developing northern town, distinguished by its prominent Catholic hospital and educational facilities.
Tsandi — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Tsandi
A deeply traditional village that houses the grand royal homestead of the Uukwaluudhi King.
Epupa Falls — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Epupa Falls
A paradise on the border with Angola, where the Kunene River plunges through a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation.

Nature

🗺️
Etosha Pan
A vast salt pan in Etosha National Park.
Guinas Lake — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Guinas Lake
Another well-known karst lake.
Otjikoto Lake — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Otjikoto Lake
A small, deep karst lake.

More places

🗺️
Outjo Farming Area
Important region for livestock trade and farming.
🗺️
Tschudi Copper Mine
A copper mine near Tsumeb producing pure copper cathodes.
Tsumeb Copper Smelter — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Tsumeb Copper Smelter
A highly specialized smelter processing complex copper concentrates from domestic and international sources.
Tsumeb Farm Region — Ombalantu Baobab Tree (Namibia)
Tsumeb Farm Region
Fertile region for livestock farming and agriculture.
🗺️
Otjiwarongo Cattle Region
Center for cattle farming and agricultural research.