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Usakos
Located in
Namibia :: Erongo
:: Usakos
Category:
Places :: Town Small
Herero chief Samuel Maharero sold some land to Europeans in the early 1900s, who in turn resold it to the Otavi Mining and Railway Company (OMEG). OMEG operated an industrial railway line from Swakopmund to Tsumeb and thus established a railway station and a repair shop at the settlement which later became known as Usakos. Mining operations slowed down in the 60s, but Usakos remained important as a drive-through from the Namibian interior to the coast.
Traveller DescriptionSurrounded by mountains, Usakos is picturesque with uninterrupted views of the horizon. It's quite an important tourist town in the Erongo area as there are many attractions in the vicinity. It is the closest town to Spitzkoppe, one of Namibia's most recognisable landmarks, and worth a refreshment stop. Although the facilities at the Spitzkoppe Community Camp are basic, it is so amazing that you simply have to spend two nights.
You will find a variety of accommodation in and around Usakos, you can visit the nearby Philipp’s Cave (known for its rock art and archaeological findings) and the Erongo Singing Rocks. Historic buildings in Usakos are the Roman Catholic church (erected in 1905) and the old hotel. Also worth seeing is the steam locomotive, Class NG No.40, in front of the old station building.
| Address : | Erongo, Namibia | ||
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| Cellphone Reception : | Good | Main Cellular Network : | MTC. LEO |
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| Police Telephone : | +264(0)64 530 003 |
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| Hospital Telephone : | +264(0)64 530 067 |
| Towing Service Telephone : | +264(0)62 500 132 or +264(0)62 504 250(Polka) |
| Petrol Type : | ULP/LRP |
| Other Facilities : | Government Services. |
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| Closest Main Route : | B2 |
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ACCOMMODATION:
You will find a variety of accommodation in and around Usakos.
FUEL:
Take note: Garage or Petrol cards will no longer be accepted as a legal tender for purchase of fuel, spares or repairs in Namibia. Cash, Debit and Credit cards are accepted at most fuel stops in the larger and touristy towns. Just always take extra cash with in case they only accept cash!
HEALTHCARE:
There is a doctor in Karibib only 35km away +264(0)64 550 050(Dr Dombo).
USEFUL NUMBERS:
Hospital: +264(0)64 530 067
Police Station: +264(0)64 530 003
Tow-in: +264(0)62 500 132 or +264(0)62 504 250(Polka)
If you’re on your way to Swakopmund, stop at the Namib Oasis Farmstall on your way out. They serve a great breakfast and lunch and sell homemade preserves and good biltong. The Uiba-Oas Crystal Market at the D1918 / B2 junction is also worth a visit. They sell semi-precious stones, crystals and hand-made jewellery.
The Bushman’s Paradise Hike at Spitzkoppe is a guided hike of approximately two hours, in and out. The hike starts on a very steep (but short) rock incline with a chain railing that hikers can hold onto. It is not too strenuous and with the right shoes, most people would manage it. The view over the landscape is breath-taking, particularly at sunset. There is no set guide fee, but a donation is expected. Guides describe the fauna and flora as well as the stories behind the rock art.
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