These 5 Drinks You Must Try in Namibia

From schnapps to cider and beer to yogurt drink: We're drinking our way through Namibia. Here are 5 beverages you must try in this African country!

When I drink Savanna back in the United States (you might find it at selected specialty stores, but you need a bit of luck), I envision the vast expanses of Namibia, the desert with its red dunes, the wild animals... wanderlust!

Savanna is a cider - golden-colored, dry-sweet, smooth. Made from Granny Smith apples. Although it originates from South Africa, it has become a favorite drink of mine in Namibia. You can find Savanna in every supermarket and bar in Namibia. It's best enjoyed at sunset on one of the hills in Windhoek with a view over the Auas Mountains and the capital.

Savanna comes in two varieties: Dry with a 6 percent alcohol content and Light with only 3 percent. However, only the Dry has the full-bodied flavor. The Light tastes more watery.

The Namibians brew some beers according to the German purity law, like Windhoek Lager. It tastes pleasantly refreshing, dry, and light. Quite mild with only 4 percent alcohol. Just right for when you return to camp in the evening from a safari.

The beer is brewed by Namibia Breweries Limited in Windhoek. The company was founded in 1920 by Carl List and Hermann Ohlthaver as the South West Brewery. After Namibia's independence on March 21, 1990, the brewery received its current name.

A sour milk made from cow's milk. Oshikandela is used as a cold sauce in Namibia for Mealie Pap (maize porridge). But you can also just drink it. There is the classic "plain" version or the extra sweet "sweet" version.

And if you prefer it fruity, try strawberry, mango, banana, or pineapple. From my experience: This stuff is addictive. But watch out: It's also very filling. A 500 ml tetra pack replaces an entire meal (at least).

In Namibia, you can't miss the Springbock. Not the animal, nor the drink (also called Springbokkie). A sweet, creamy liquor mix made of Amarula (2 cl) with peppermint liqueur (2 cl). It tastes best when both beverages are well chilled. Important in preparation: First pour the peppermint liqueur into the glass. Then carefully let the Amarula flow over a spoon. Two layers will form. Green at the bottom, brown-gold on top.

This drink also originates from South Africa. It owes its name to the South African national rugby team. They are nicknamed "Springbok," and their jerseys are green and gold.

A traditional Namibian drink made from fermented millet. It's mostly homemade, so the alcohol content varies. There is also a completely non-alcoholic version. The taste of Oshikundu is similar to beer.

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