Windhoek is the capital of Namibia, in the country’s central highlands. It is located in central Namibia in the Khomas Highland plateau area. Windhoek is the social, economic, political, and cultural centre of the country. The city developed at the site of a permanent hot spring known to the indigenous pastoral communities.
Windhoek is served by two airports, with the closest one being Eros Airport, located 7 kilometres south of the city center for smaller craft, and the other being Hosea Kutako International Airport, 42 kilometres east of the city. Public transport is scarce and transportation across town is largely done by taxi. Windhoek is connected by rail to: Okahandja, Rehoboth and Gobabis.
The National Art Gallery, National Theatre and the National Museum are all located here. Two locations are part of the National Museum,the Alte Feste (historical) showcases a range of colonial items such as wagons and domestic items, while the Owela Museum (scientific; named after Orwell, a traditional game played with pebbles) contains displays of minerals, fossils, and meteorites and gives an insight into traditional village life. There are also the Independence Memorial Museum, the National Library of Namibia, and the Windhoek Public Library, built-in 1925, next to the Alte Feste. Those are some of the major sites in the city.
During the month of May, June, July, and August you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) and 25 degrees Celsius (77°F). The hottest season/summer is in January, February, October, November, and December. The coldest month is July with an average maximum temperature of 20°C.
10 Best things to do in Windhoek, Namibia:
Visit the Christuskirche.
A rather pretty Lutheran Church was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. The Christuskirche is the most iconic landmark in Windhoek. Situated next to the Tintenpalast, Namibia’s Parliament building, & the parliament gardens, the church is located quite centrally & makes for an interesting walk with some historical significance & neighboring attractions.
Visit the Zoo Park gardens or the Parliament gardens to take a break from the blazing sun & chill out under a palm tree. Visit the Zoo Park gardens or the Parliament gardens to take a break from the blazing sun & chill out under a palm tree.
National Museum of Namibia (Alte Feste)
The Alte Feste, which translates from German to the Old Fort, is the oldest surviving building in Windhoek. Found next to the Tintenpalast, it is also the National Museum of Namibia.Even though it is officially the National Museum of Namibia, it does not hold too many items of interest. A majority of which were moved to the neighboring Independence Memorial Museum upon completion in 2014. What it lacks in interior content, it makes up for with intriguing historical architecture. It’s worth stopping by to have a look at the building itself, but don’t expect to find London’s Natural History Museum inside.
Independence Memorial Museum
This 40m high museum is a rather chaotic mess upon entry. Whilst it does showcase the fight for independence, there is no rhyme or reason for how exhibits are set up or any order in which you can follow. It at least offers free admission & has a café on the top which showcases some panoramic views over the city.
Hilton Hotel Terrace
The terrace atop the Hilton Hotel provides another great view over the city. Perfect for an evening sundowner whilst sipping on cocktails or a snack with a view.
Joe’s Beerhouse
They say if you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t visited Namibia. The saying holds true these days as the Beerhouse is one of the most popular destinations in the whole country. The place is massive, or at least that’s how it feels on a busy evening, which is every evening, as Joe’s is pretty much full every single night. It’s not just a spot for the foreigners, the locals love it too! There are 5 different areas, most of which are outside & undercover, all providing a unique and warm atmosphere. Even though Joe’s has a capacity of 600 people, make sure to book in advance. Assuring you of a seat in this eclectic collection that can only be summed up as a real Namibian experience.
Namibian Craft Centre
You’ll find plenty of locally made Namibian crafts & artwork. From wood carved figures & gemstones to beautiful cloth and clothing. The Namibian Craft Centre provides a convenient place to find a variety of locally made products and souvenirs without charging the usual tourist prices.
Post Street Mall & the Gibeon Meteorites
Along the Post Street Mall, you’ll come across some pedestals housing a few rocks. Well, that’s what it looks like upon first viewing at least. In fact, these are a part of the meteorite that hit Namibia in prehistoric times near the town named Gibeon, hence the name.
Penduka
Penduka is a development and training village set up for local underprivileged women. Meaning Wake Up in most parts of Namibia, Penduka provides local support for women and children through their various programs & by providing women with work, education & safety. In addition to the crafts, there is also accommodation if you’re looking to stay over with views over the dam & a terraced restaurant waterside.
Daan Viljoen National Park
If you’re looking to go on a game viewing safari, Etosha, or even Erindi, would be a more advisable choice. Daan Viljoen National Park, however, is conveniently close to Windhoek to get you ready for the bigger parks or to wind down when returning. Perfect for an afternoon hike before settling down for a delicious meal at the Boma restaurant. You can also go on game drives with an experienced guide or stay the night at one of the campsites or in a modern Namibian chalet.
Horseback Riding through the Eros Mountains
If you’re looking for a more adventures outdoors experience, there’s nothing like horseback riding through the Eros mountains with Equitrails. The experienced team will partner you with a horse that suits you no matter your riding experience. Even if you’ve never ridden before. You can choose from short hour trips, breakfast trips, sundowner rides or even longer individually scheduled excursions from your lodge.
The most widely spoken languages used in households are Oshiwambo dialects, by 49% of the population, Khoekhoegowab by 11%, Afrikaans by 10%, RuKwangali by 9% and Otjiherero by 9%. English is the official language. The Namibian Dollar is the currency of Namibia. 1NAD=0.067518 USD.
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