Okahandja Woodcarvers Market

Okahandja sits on the main road north from Windhoek and two large open-air markets have grown along it, mostly run by Kavango and Angolan carvers, selling carved animals, bowls, masks, walking sticks and furniture in hardwood. Most of the work is carved in the Kavango region and brought south to sell here, and almost every tour heading north stops. Bargaining is expected and pressure from sellers is direct, which some visitors find uncomfortable.

What you actually see

• The carved animals - the market's main stock, from small pieces to large sculptures.
• The furniture and bowls - larger hardwood work at the back of the stalls.
• The two markets - separate sites at either end of the town on the main road.
• The carvers - many stalls run by Kavango and Angolan makers.

When to go

Year round; the markets run daily through the day. Mornings are quieter. Tour bus arrivals through the middle of the day make the pressure heaviest.

Honest expectations

Sellers are persistent and follow visitors between stalls, which many find unpleasant. Quality varies enormously and much of the stock is repetitive. Hard bargaining is expected and starting prices are high.

Nearby

Gross Barmen is southwest, and Windhoek is south.