IN 1845 A GERMAN MISSION was established among the resident Nama (Khoikhoi) in the place known today as the town of Rehoboth. However, the mission was closed after coming under frequent attack from the Nama. In 1868 Hermanus van Wyk, of mixed race or 'Baster' family, left the Cape Colony to escape discrimination and harassment. In 1870 Van Wyk’s clan discovered the fertile area around Rehoboth, which at that time had largely been abandoned by the Nama people who'd came under attack of the Oorlam Afrikaners. In the late 18th century Oorlam Afrikaners, a sub-tribe of the Nama people, migrated out of the Cape Colony and were assimilated into Damaraland.

In 1885 Captain Hermanus van Wyk, who was the leader of the Rehoboth people, negotiated with the German Empire for protection against the local tribes. In return he supported the German Empire during the War of Resistance (1904-1907), the Herero and Nama uprising against German colonial rule. During the WW1 they refused to take up their weapons against South Africa, with the result that they gained several privileges above the Herero and Nama during the subsequent South African occupation of South West Africa (now Namibia).

Today the town is inhabited by the Baster community, the racially mixed descendants of Hermanus Van Wyk and the local Khoikhoi women. Their language is still Afrikaans and they are a highly respected minority community with strong political influences.

Rehoboth is located 95km south of Windhoek on a plateau covered in dense Acacia woodland and sporting several hot springs. These are the first lush green surroundings the traveller sees when travelling up from the south.
The history of the Rehoboth Basters is recorded in the museum in town. It details their cultural heritage as well as the archaeological and geological finds in the area. The Lutheran Paulus Church was inaugurated in 1908 and is a well-known landmark in Rehoboth. There is a large Acacia forest within the municipal boundaries of Rehoboth, with some camel thorn trees estimated to be more than 2 000 years old. The Rehoboth Spa has an outside thermal pool as well as an indoor one but the facilities are not on par with other Namibian hot springs, such as Gross Barmen or Ai-Ais.
Five kilometres west of the town is Lake Oanob, the town’s main water supply since 1990. It is enclosed in a private nature reserve, Oanob Lake Resort, where you’ll find several species of antelope and numerous birds. This popular resort offers a variety of aquatic sports, picnic facilities and overnight accommodation.

GAS REFILLS:
Gas can be refilled at Afrox.

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!

MECHANICAL REPAIRS:
Number of mechanical repairs workshop: +264(0)62 523 686.

SHOPS:
There are several good shops in town, as well as a bakery and liquor store.
The town also boasts a big shopping centre conveniently located right next to the highway.

USEFUL NUMBERS:
Rehoboth Museum: +264(0)62 522 954.
Tow-in services: 264(0)81 292 8833
Your Family Practice: +264(0)62 523 001(Doctor)

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