Authentic Experience in Himba Village, Namibia

One highlight from a trip to #Namibia: visiting a local Himba village. Unlike some village experiences that can feel like you’re at a human zoo this felt authentic, as my guide George helped our group to communicate (the Himbas speak Otjihimba) and assimilate instead of being an awkward outsider. I even went into one and saw how the Himbas crush up ochre stone to make body paint — they even painted my arms — to use for beauty, sun protection and skin health. At the end, I showed my appreciation by purchasing some handicrafts from the blankets setup by the Himba women. It felt like a true exchange, instead of simply going in without a guide, not knowing what was going on and giving money blindly to take some photos (so keep in mind, a good guide will be essential for this).