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Namibia is one of the most stunning countries to visit in Africa. It has some of the best and cheapest national parks on the continent (like Etosha), and the country is just perfect for a self-driven road and camping trip. One of its many gems and attractions is the ghost town of Kolmanskop ("Coleman's Head") in the desert, just 10 kilometers (6 miles) out of the isolated port town of Luderitz.
While many may not have heard of Namibia, Namibia is arguably one of the most interesting places in Africa to visit. Discover the history of German (and later Afrikaner) colonization of Namibia at the once bustling ghost town of Kolmanskop.
History Of The German Ghost Town Of Kolmanskop
Kolmanskop was once a small but very rich mining village; today, it is a significant tourist destination being reclaimed by the sandstorms of the desert. It was founded when what is today Namibia was still the German colony of German South-West Africa in 1908 (the Germans lost the colony to the British Empire a few years later in World War One).
- Founded: 1908
- Abandoned: 1956
The area was found to be rich in diamonds. On the back of the wealth of the mines, the residents built the village in the architectural style of a German town - quite the enigma in the desert. The town was complete with a hospital, power station, school, ballroom, casino, ice factory, theater, bowling alley, saltwater swimming pool, and sports hall. Firsts included the first X-Ray station in the Southern Hemisphere and the first tram in Africa.
- Peak Population: Almost 400
The town had a population of fewer than 400 people. But in its heyday, it was the richest town in Africa and one of the richest towns in the world. The development and infrastructure of a tiny town of that size were unparalleled at the time.
But following World War I, the diamonds started to deplete, and by 1956 the town was completely abandoned. Nothing lasts forever.
Visiting Kolmanskop & What To Expect
Today Kolmanskop is a ghost town like none other; tourists walk through the once-opulent homes knee-deep in sand. It is one of the most popular spots in Namibia for photographers. It is almost post-apocalyptic, with the sands reclaiming a once-thriving town. The arid climate preserves the traditional Edwardian architecture of the settlement.
In 1980 when Namibia was still being administered by South Africa (who had one it from the Germans in 1914), the touristic potential of the forgotten town was released. Some of the houses were dug out of the sand and were restored.
Visitors can enjoy very informative guided tours in English, German, and Afrikaans. Otherwise, visitors can enjoy self-guided tours.
- Admission Fee: 100N ($6 USD)
Guided Tours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9.30 am and 11.00 am
- Sunday: One Tour At 10.00 am (And On Public Holidays)
Visiting Namibia Is Easy & Safe
Namibia is one of the most stable and most developed countries in Africa and a superb place to visit. It offers vast empty but dramatic swathes of land (it is one of the least populated countries in the world). It is visa-free entry for all Western passports (for up to 3 months).
- Visa: Visa Free
- Official Language: English
English is the official language of Namibia. Most people also speak Afrikaans, and there are many local languages; in some areas (like Swakopmund), German is still spoken.
Stay In The Isolated Port Town Of Lüderitz
Tourists should spend the night in the neighboring town of Lüderitz - the port town has plenty of accommodation options and even hostels. The feel of the town is that of an American or Australian early 1900s town that has seen better days (unusual for Africa). It is the only town of note for many miles around.
- Population: 12,000
Despite the desert being backing hot, the Atlantic Coast along the Namibian coast is quite cold. It is not very pleasant for swimming or sunbathing. Expect to go from sweltering in the desert to wearing a sweater on the coast.
The best way to explore Namibia is by renting a 4x4 and driving across the country. Staying at the Omaruru Game Lodge and dining with all manner of African animals is a must. Africa, in general, can be quite expensive to visit, but Namibian self-driving tours can be surprisingly affordable.