Transfer to Windhoek, Independence Museum -- 3/8

Today we got another African Massage as we drove to Windhoek, for our last night on the OAT part of the trip. We made a couple stops on the way and got to Windhoek mid afternoon. 

Solar Oven at pit stop

After we checked into our hotel, we explored the area and ventured to the nearby Independence Museum. They are normally closed on Sunday, but Abraham got it opened and gave us a comprehensive tour, sharing the Namibian's fight for their independence. From being taken over by Germany, they went to being controlled by South Africa and there was little freedom for the original inhabitants. In the 1970s, with backing from China, Cuba, and Angola, they started the fight for independence as SWAPO: South West Africa People's Organzation. They were finally successful in 1990. Despite the backing of Communist countries, their leaders were dedicated to establishing a democracy, which they did successfully. 

The Museum

Enslaved natives

Freedom fighters

Above and below: views of Windhoek 
from the Museum restaurant at the
top of the building.

Afterwards, we had our farewell-from-the-trip dinner. While most people were getting ready to fly home, Sandy and I were focused on our 2-day adventure at the Cheetah Conservation Foundation reserve. 

Explore the Area Around the Lodge, Magical Dinner -- 3/7

 Today was less intense activity than usual. We walked to a nearby settlement and a camp ground, and met some of the local people. We looked around a souvenir shop in the village, pictured below. 

In the late afternoon we went on a 'game drive' and had a happy hour, then dinner in the bush. The area here is pretty flat with a small mountain range. The scenery was pretty interesting, but there really weren't many animals. 

The rocks in the foreground made me think 'Aha! 
dinosaur poop!,

We stopped for what I thought was our bush dinner, but actually only the appetizers. We enjoyed them and watched the sunset before proceeding to dinner, which was the big surprise.

An elaborate setting greeted us at dinner....there were lanterns leading the way and our formal table with fabulous lighting really set the stage for an impressive sendoff from the desert.