Steeped in history

The art of making others feel valued and welcome runs through the veins of Ingo Klitzke, owner of Schützenhaus Guesthouse in Keetmanshoop.

“The Klitzke family has been in the hospitality trade since the 1800s. My grandfather was a chef on the train of the German governor for the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation. My father, my uncle and his brother came to Africa as chefs and later entered the bakery business,” Klitzke said.

Established in 1907, Schützenhaus is the oldest German club in Southern Africa. After 98 years, it was privatised and now operates as a guesthouse in Keetmanshoop. The street in front of the Schützenhaus, leading towards the industrial centre, has been named after Ingo, who served as a town councillor for Keetmanshoop. “I am proud to have a street named after me. Most people only receive this honour posthumously. I was born here and try to do my best for the community. I have done my part,” he said.

Klitzke began working as a trainee chef with his uncle in 1964 and remained with him until the hotel he owned in Swakopmund closed. “I then bought a takeaway, and when we acquired the Schützenhaus in 2004, I moved back to Keetmanshoop and have been here ever since.”

He also provided additional in-house training to all kitchen staff at the guesthouse. “Some of my staff have been with me for 15 years. We offer a wide menu, with a focus on German cuisine, which Namibians enjoy. Our top-selling item is the 450g rump steak for N$230, and of course, we are well known for our Eisbein.”

Schützenhaus Guesthouse was established in 2004 with only five rooms. “We now have 29 rooms, including both luxury and standard options. There is little difference between them, apart from being located in different (older and newer) buildings. The rooms in the newer buildings are slightly larger and more modern, but the amenities are the same throughout,” Klitzke explained.

All en-suite rooms are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a television, and tea and coffee facilities. The property also features an à la carte restaurant, a private bar, barbecue facilities for self-catering guests, four campsites with ablution facilities, and a swimming pool. “These are the essentials if you want to succeed in this industry. Our rates are competitive. We offer a Southern African Development Community (SADC) rate, which is more affordable for Namibians and South Africans. International guests pay N$970 for a single room and N$1 900 for a luxury double room,” Klitzke noted.

The hall at Schützenhaus Guesthouse has been in use since 1907. “It was built in 1905 and officially opened in 1907. Before 1950, badminton was played there. It also hosted a bioscope and many large concerts. Today, it is mainly used as a conference facility,” he said.

Schützenhaus Guesthouse attracts a diverse range of guests. “We are more active in the corporate market than in tourism. Most tourists travel to northern Namibia, so we have had to diversify. We have hosted several functions for the founding president, Sam Nujoma, as well as for former president Pohamba,” said Klitzke.

With its tranquil surroundings, Schützenhaus Guesthouse offers a true retreat for the weary traveller. It is also the ideal base for exploring the Mesosaurus Fossil Trail, Quiver Tree Forest, Fish River Canyon, Giant’s Playground, and other attractions in and around Keetmanshoop.