Ombalantu baobab tree

The Ombalantu baobab tree, known also as a Tree of Life or Omukwa waaMbalantu, is a giant Baobab tree, an Adansonia species, situated in the town of Outapi in the north of Namibia. It is 28 metres (92 ft) tall and estimated to be 800 years old.^{[citation needed]}

The tree trunk has a door going onto it and can accommodate about 35 people. It has served as a chapel, post office, house, and a hiding site during various stages of Namibian history. Today^[update] the tree is a tourist attraction, featuring a display of its history and role in the Owambo community, as well as the history of the Namibian struggle for independence.

The site offers a variety of facilities such as:

• Craft shop
• Camping facilities
• Ablution block with toilet and shower
• Braai facilities
• A heritage centre

How to get there From Oshakati: take the C46 main road to Ruacana. Outapi is a 90km drive over tar road from Oshakati. Turn left into town, turn left again circa 1km from the junction. The tree is located behind the open market.

From Ruacana: take the C46 main road to Oshakati. Outapi is circa 100km from Ruacana. Turn right into town, turn left circa 1km from the junction. The tree is located behind the open market.

From Tsandi: take the D3612 gravel road towards Outapi. Follow the tar road into town (1km before you reach the junction with the C46), the tree is located behind the traditional authority and open market complex.

Prices

Entrance fee: N$ 15.00 Picnic fee: N$ 25.00 Overnight fee: N$ 45.00

^[1]

References

Bause, T.(31st August 2010). History of the Ombalantu Baobab Tree, The Namibian.

       Retrieved October 05, 2011, from
       http://www.allafrica.com/stories/201008310483.html 

2.The Cardboard Box Travel Shop (n.d). Ombalantu Baobab Tree, Retrieved October 05 2011, from

      http://www.namibian.org/travel/community/ombalantu.html

1. ^ "North (Omusati): Ombalantu Baobab Tree Heritage Centre and Campsite". Namibia Travel Online. http://www.natron.net/nacobta/ombalantu/main.html. Retrieved 16 March 2011.