Travel Guide Tsintsabis

It is in a village of about 1,800 inhabitants 65 km north of Tsumeb on the M75 that the Haillom Bushmen now live, who once populated the Etosha region before it was declared a national park. Hunter-gatherers since the dawn of time, these men, whose traditions have been shaken by modernity which deprives them of their land, are among those left behind in contemporary Namibian society. Unemployment affects the majority of the inhabitants, and their meager income is too often spent on alcohol, their first and main escape. AIDS and tuberculosis are also part of the scourges generated by the vicious circle of lack of education and poverty. Community tourism is developing in Tsintsabis, offering locals the opportunity to showcase their rich culture to visitors who are open to a change of scenery. Constantly at the mercy of the Etosha lions, the Haillom used to sleep in the trees. Visitors to Tsintsabis can imitate them and set up their tent on a platform in the middle of the savannah. Sanitary facilities and showers, however, offer a luxury that the Bushmen did not have. The walk with a local guide gives a very concrete insight into the daily life of the people. Not to be missed: the meeting with the inhabitants of Tsintsabis, which deals closely with the problem of the change in the lifestyle of the Haillom. Don't expect to see Bushmen in costume, this visit is not a photo safari, but a reality check. In the evening, singing and dancing performances are offered.