Himba Culture: Beauty Rituals and more ♥️ #HimbaCulture #HimbaArt #HimbaBeautyRituals

One of the most distinct aspects of the Himba that has fascinated travelers for centuries is the ochre pigment that the women beautify their skin with. Butterfat and ochre are blended into a paste that is known as otjize and sometimes fragranced with the omuzumba shrub that provides a natural insect repellant. It is designed to cleanse the skin and provide a sunscreen-like protection against the hot and arid climate of Kaokoland. The Himba live in fairly remote villages in Kaokoland and most produce food for their own consumption. But they also interact with urban people and other ethnic groups through bartering systems and trade. If you’re traveling through Opuwo, it’s not uncommon to see Himba shopping at the local supermarkets or visiting health centres while in town.