But it comes different. We were denied entry to South Africa because our dog is supposed not to have the correct papers, The Import permit has expired and we have traveled through countries that would be extremely dangerous. We must return.
We are already on the way back to the north and no longer understand the world. We think about what we could do. We decide to drive back to Kamanjab, because we know there folks, who may have an idea of how we get other papers for Tara.
That means 1,300 kilometers back to Kamanjab. After three days we are again in Kamanjab on Oppi Koppi with Marianne and Vital.
Our old campsite spot is even available. We meet a couple, he a German, she a Mexican, they travelled from Mexico’s to South America to Africa and want to continue to Asia. They are already some years on the road.
Elli wants to cook Mexican chili for us today. Hectic is on our picnic table. Ingredients are cut, vegetables cleaned and meat prepared.
To our pleasure, Traudl and Udo arrived with their dog and their vintage truck. We met them during our last stay in Kamanjab.
Iwa, their dog goes straight under our camping table. Traudl and Udo are already retired and so-called winter birds, they spend the European winter in Africa, the rest of the year in Europe.
We all spend a wonderful evening together with red wine and chilli.
The next day is a school class performed a dance.
On Oppi – Koppi Sundowner Donkey tour is offered by the owners Marianne and Vital. We want to see this. In the early evening the tour starts with a typical donkey cart, which is also used by the population, the Damara. The guides, Elias and Reynold, are employed at the Restcamp Oppi – Koppi. The income from the donkey ride will also directly benefit the employees, because it is a social project. Half of the money is withheld by Vital and saved. From that building material is purchased to build stone houses for the employees. Manpower and expertise is provided for free by Vital. Thus the employees are offered a better life, because they can give up their shanties and move in their own stone house.
With the guests on the cart they drive through the residential area of the Damara. They stop on a hill. The last few meters guests have to walk, because the path is too steep for the donkeys. Arriving at the hill cool drinks are served and guests can admire the magnificent view and picturesque sunset. Namibia receives little rain in this area, so the Donkey Tour is available all year round. After sunset, the tour continues. It goes to a local disco, where guests can immerse into the real Africa.
Here lives the black population of Kamanjab, mainly Damara and Herero. The living conditions are poor, but there is entertainment for people. With a cold beer, guests can mingle with the locals. It’s wonderful to watch the rhythmic dance of the black people. Later we return to the lodge where you can spend the evening at the bar. Vital and Marianne have created a great project and we hope for them that many guests book this interesting tour, which not only offers deep insight into the lifestyle of the population, but it still helps to improve the lives of local people.