Located in the north-eastern corner of Namibia, Rundu is a bustling city that is home to the Rundu Market. This vibrant market is the perfect place to explore Namibian culture and cuisine, as well as to pick up some unique souvenirs. Here are 10 things to do at Rundu Market in Rundu, Namibia.
1. Sample Local Cuisine
Rundu Market is the ideal place to sample some of the local cuisine. There are plenty of vendors selling traditional Namibian dishes, such as braaivleis (barbecued meat), Chakalaka (spicy vegetable dish), and Kudu Stew (stew made with kudu meat). For those with a sweet tooth, there are also vendors selling traditional Namibian desserts, such as koeksisters (syrup-coated doughnuts) and melktert (milk tart).
2. Shop for Souvenirs
Rundu Market is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs. There are plenty of vendors selling traditional crafts, such as hand-woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and carved wooden masks. There are also vendors selling locally-made clothing, such as traditional Himba skirts and brightly-colored capulanas (fabric wraps).
3. Visit the Flea Market
The flea market at Rundu Market is the perfect place to pick up some unique bargains. Here you will find a wide range of items, from second-hand clothes to vintage furniture. It is also a great place to pick up some unusual souvenirs, such as antique coins and tribal masks.
4. Enjoy Live Music
On weekends, the market comes alive with the sound of live music. Local bands often perform traditional Namibian music, such as the Mbube (traditional Zulu music). There are also plenty of vendors selling traditional instruments, such as marimbas and kalimbas.
5. Taste Local Wines
Rundu Market is the perfect place to sample some of the local wines. There are plenty of vendors selling bottles of red, white, and sparkling wines from the nearby Kalahari Desert. You can also sample some of the local craft beers, such as the popular Kalahari Lager.
6. Buy Fresh Produce
The market is a great place to buy fresh fruit and vegetables. Here you will find a wide range of produce, such as tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and peppers. You can also buy freshly-caught fish, such as tilapia and perch.
7. Explore the Local Arts Scene
Rundu Market is a great place to explore the local arts scene. There are plenty of vendors selling traditional Namibian art, such as paintings, sculptures, and pottery. There are also plenty of vendors selling traditional Himba jewelry and beaded items.
8. Buy Local Spices
Rundu Market is the perfect place to pick up some of the local spices. Here you will find a wide range of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can also buy some of the more unusual spices, such as baobab powder and kapenta (dried fish).
9. Enjoy Traditional Dance
On weekends, the market comes alive with the sound of traditional Namibian dance. Here you can watch the Himba women perform their traditional dance, as well as the Herero people performing their traditional dances.
10. Visit the Pet Market
The pet market at Rundu Market is the perfect place to pick up some unusual pets. Here you will find a wide range of animals, from cats and dogs to monkeys and birds. You can also buy some of the more unusual pets, such as chameleons and tortoises.