The Ombalantu baobab tree, known also as a Tree of Life or Omukwa waaMbalantu, is a giant baobab tree of the species Adansonia digitata, situated in Outapi in the north of Namibia on the Main Road 123 from Tsandi. It is 28 metres (92 ft) tall, 26.5 metres (87 ft) in circumference, and estimated to be 800 years old.^[1]

The tree trunk has a door going into 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 the tree is a tourist attraction, known under the name “Ombalantu Baobab Tree Heritage Site”.

Information displays in front of the tree’s entrance give a short overview of the tree’s diverse history, its role in the Owambo community and the struggle for independence from South Africa in North Central Namibia.

The renovated ‘Koffeehuys’ (coffee shop), built and used by the South Africans during colonial times, is now in use as a kiosk with craft shop. The craft shop offers a wide range of wire products, from replicas of the baobab tree to wire giraffes, but also traditional Owambo baskets and clay pots.

In the shadow of the baobab tree, you will find the ideal spot for a picnic at any time of the day. The kiosk offers barbeque grills for rent and wood for sale to have your own private ‘braai’ under the tree!

For those who like to relax after a well prepared meal, they have the opportunity to pitch their tent at one of the four private camping sites, each having its own ‘braai’ place, water tap and shared ablution facilities.