Things To Do
in Windhoek
Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is a vibrant city that blends modernity with a rich cultural history. Nestled between the Khomas Highland mountains, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country. The city boasts a mix of colonial architecture and contemporary buildings, reflecting its diverse influences.
With a pleasant climate and friendly locals, Windhoek offers a unique gateway to explore Namibia's natural beauty and wildlife.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Independence Memorial Museum to learn about Namibia's history and independence. Enjoy a traditional Namibian breakfast at Joe's Beerhouse.
Explore the bustling Craft Centre, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. After that, head to the Christ Church, an iconic landmark of Windhoek.
Dine at Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro, known for its exquisite wine selection and Namibian cuisine.
Take a morning hike at the nearby Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy stunning landscapes.
Visit the National Museum of Namibia to delve deeper into the country’s culture and history. Enjoy a light lunch at The Stellenbosch Wine Bar.
Experience the nightlife at The Warehouse Theatre, where you can catch a live performance or local music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within the city) | $5 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $70 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical attractions.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Excellent gateway to explore Namibia's natural beauty.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher cost of living compared to other African cities.
- Potential language barriers in rural areas.
- "Ngwao ya chenda?" - How are you?
- "Nawa!" - Thank you!
- "Omaanda!" - Goodbye!
- "Tjina!" - Please!
- "Oshikoto!" - Excuse me!
Places to Visit in Windhoek
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic church features unique architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
The museum's striking facade and panoramic views of the city provide excellent backdrops for photography.
The seat of the Namibian Parliament, its colonial architecture is a must-capture for visitors.
Food in Windhoek
Windhoek Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dried cured meat, usually beef or game, seasoned with spices; a popular snack.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat skewers served with spicy chili sauce, often sold by street vendors.
A traditional dish made from fermented maize, often served with meat or vegetable stew.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant space where locals sell fresh produce, crafts, and street food.
An open-air market with food stalls featuring local delicacies and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common, and it’s polite to greet everyone in a group individually.
Showing respect towards elders is deeply ingrained in the culture; addressing them politely is appreciated.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Windhoek
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants if service is not included. For taxi services, rounding up to the nearest dollar is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; however, cash is preferable for small purchases and at markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's the rainy season, so occasional thunderstorms can occur.
Temperatures begin to cool down, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall decreases significantly.
Mild temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day. It's dry and sunny, perfect for sightseeing.
Temperatures start to rise, and it's generally dry. The landscape can be quite beautiful as flowers bloom.
Windhoek at Night
Hiking in Windhoek
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
These trails offer various levels of difficulty, allowing hikers to explore beautiful landscapes and spot wildlife.
A scenic hiking route with stunning views of the city and surrounding areas, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Windhoek by plane.
Located about 45 km from Windhoek, this is the main international airport serving the city and the country. It offers connections to various African and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Ovambo people are the largest ethnic group in Namibia, primarily residing in the northern regions, but many have migrated to Windhoek for better opportunities.
The Damara people are one of the indigenous groups of Namibia, known for their rich cultural heritage and history. They contribute significantly to the cultural diversity of Windhoek.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Namibia, with many local clubs and national competitions. The Namibian national team has gained recognition in international tournaments.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Windhoek, with local clubs participating in national leagues and friendly matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Windhoek.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, though choices may be limited.
Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in urban areas.