Map of Khorixas, Namibia

Khorixas, located in the northwestern part of Namibia, is a town known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to some of the country's most fascinating natural attractions. As a hub for the Damara people, Khorixas offers a unique blend of traditional and modern influences, making it a vibrant place to explore.

The town serves as a gateway to the famous Twyfelfontein rock engravings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Petrified Forest, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts alike. Khorixas is also known for its warm and welcoming community, which plays a significant role in preserving the cultural traditions of the region.

History and Culture

Khorixas has a deep-rooted history that is closely tied to the Damara people, one of Namibia's oldest ethnic groups. The town's name is derived from the Khoekhoegowab language, reflecting its indigenous heritage. Historically, Khorixas has been a center for the Damara culture, with traditional practices and languages still prevalent today.

The area around Khorixas is rich in archaeological significance, with the Twyfelfontein rock engravings providing insight into the lives of early inhabitants. These engravings are among the oldest in Africa, depicting animals and hunting scenes that date back thousands of years.

Culturally, Khorixas is a melting pot of traditions, with influences from various ethnic groups contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape. The town hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating the music, dance, and art of the Damara people and other communities.

Things to do in Khorixas

Visitors to Khorixas can explore the Twyfelfontein rock engravings, a site that offers a glimpse into ancient art and history. The nearby Petrified Forest is another must-see, featuring fossilized tree trunks that are millions of years old.

For those interested in local culture, the Damara Living Museum provides an interactive experience of traditional Damara life, including demonstrations of crafts, music, and dance.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the stunning landscapes surrounding Khorixas, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing in the nearby national parks. The town also serves as a base for exploring the rugged beauty of Damaraland, known for its dramatic scenery and unique geological formations.

Worldwide
Namibia

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Namibia reflect how livable a city in Namibia is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Jan, 2025

Weather in Khorixas

Khorixas, Namibia experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 12 inches (300 mm), with February being the wettest month, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 86°F (30°C) in September to 95°F (35°C) in November. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with occasional showers towards the end of November.
  • Summer (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 86°F (30°C) in September to 95°F (35°C) in November. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with occasional showers towards the end of November.
  • Autumn (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 86°F (30°C) in September to 95°F (35°C) in November. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with occasional showers towards the end of November.
  • Winter (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 86°F (30°C) in September to 95°F (35°C) in November. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with occasional showers towards the end of November.
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during the summer months, with temperatures exceeding 104°F (40°C).
  • Rare thunderstorms in late summer, particularly in February.
  • Extended dry periods during the winter months.
Overall, Khorixas' climate offers hot summers and mild winters, with most of the rainfall occurring in the late summer months. The dry season extends from May to October, characterized by clear skies and minimal precipitation.

Khorixas's Political Climate

SWAPO

Khorixas, located in the northwestern part of Namibia, is a town with a unique political landscape shaped by its historical and cultural context. As part of the Kunene Region, Khorixas has a local government that operates under the broader framework of Namibia's democratic system. The town's political climate is influenced by the national policies of Namibia, which emphasize democratic governance, human rights, and economic development.

Historically, Khorixas has been a focal point for political activity in the region, with a strong presence of the ruling SWAPO party. The town has seen various political movements and has been a site for political discourse, particularly around issues of land rights and local governance. The current political leadership in Khorixas is focused on addressing local challenges such as infrastructure development, education, and healthcare.

Khorixas has been proactive in implementing progressive policies, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability and social justice. The town has initiated several community-based projects aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts. These initiatives reflect the broader national commitment to environmental stewardship and social equity.

The political climate in Khorixas also impacts its economic and social decisions. The town's leadership is keen on fostering economic growth through tourism and agriculture, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Social policies are geared towards improving the quality of life for residents, with a focus on education and healthcare. Recent political trends in Khorixas include a growing emphasis on youth engagement and digital governance, aligning with Namibia's national development goals.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 65%
City Governance - Local council under the Kunene Regional Council
Composition - Majority SWAPO with representation from opposition parties
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on digital governance and youth engagement
Engagement - Moderate, with active participation in local governance and community projects
Political Scorecard - High transparency and accountability in local governance
Legislative Priorities - Infrastructure development, Education improvement, Healthcare access
Public Opinion - Generally supportive of SWAPO policies, with a strong emphasis on social justice and economic development
Notable Political Figures
  • John Mutorwa - Minister of Works and Transport, influential in regional development policies.
  • Sophia Shaningwa - SWAPO Secretary General, known for her role in national and regional politics.
  • Pohamba Shifeta - Minister of Environment and Tourism, advocate for sustainable development.
Khorixas

"Key Takeaways"

Khorixas is a cultural hub for the Damara people, offering a rich blend of traditional and modern influences.

The town is a gateway to significant archaeological sites like the Twyfelfontein rock engravings and the Petrified Forest.

Khorixas hosts cultural festivals that celebrate the diverse traditions and arts of the region.