A modern and well-groomed city, Windhoek is a favourite among travellers wanting to begin or break a journey through the rest of the country. If visiting the Namibian capital forms part of your whistle-stop itinerary, rest assured that the accommodation choices, cultural sights and the city’s genuine African feel will have you coming back for more. Experience Windhoek to the full with this brief travel guide to exploring Namibia’s capital, there’s a variety of things to discover and do, from museums and art galleries to the Zoo Park.
Taste contemporary Namibian cuisine
Start the day with pancakes or a coffee or fry ups at one of Windhoek’s most popular breakfast spots. Tradition meets global infusion at various chic cafes and restaurants scattered across the City. From fresh baked goods and pastries to classic Namibian dishes and international menu, there’s something for every foodie.
Sightseeing
When in a new destination, we like to get acquainted with the city’s tourist sights. Many Windhoek’s attractions are close to each other, you can visit lots of places in a day. From old buildings to historic sites, join Dream Africa in exploring sightseeing options in Windhoek.
Lounge around Zoo Park
Zoo Park is a perfect picnic spot in Windhoek, Namibia. Situated on Independence Avenue in downtown Windhoek, Zoo Park is fun spot of social life in Namibia’s capital. The park is landscaped and features a pond, children’s playground, open-air theatre, shady trees, pond, lawns and gardens – best to make the most out of the weather and get outdoors. With the city’s warm tropical weather, what better way to soak up the sunshine than by gathering a group of friends, blankets and a basket full of food and drinks and enjoying lounging in nature?
Independence Memorial Museum
The Independence Memorial Museum is a historical museum in the Namibian capital, it was inaugurated on March 21, 2014, by President Hifikepunye Pohamba, to make Namibia’s 24th independence anniversary. Built in a modern architectural style, the fascinating museum was designed and built by Mansudae Overseas Projects, a North Korean firm. The museum is free and open to the public in weekdays, allowing visitors to learn about the cultural development of this fascinating country. Definitely worth a visit if you are interested in knowing the history of Namibia. Visitors at the last floor (fourth floor), have access to the NIMMS restaurant, from which there are stunning views over the city of Windhoek.
Daan Viljoen Game Reserve
Situated in the hill area of Khomas Hochland, the Daan Viljoen National Park, is small intimate game park for game species typical of Namibia’s highlands and is also very popular for bird watching, and more than 200 species have been recorded here. The game park is a tourist spot, the perfect location and the abundance of safari and wildlife makes the Daan Viljoen Resort the perfect stopover for visitors who would like to experience the tranquility of the bush or indulge the hiking trails. The hiking trails offering sweeping views at this game park, amid a diverse array of grazing African wildlife. The game reserve accommodation options for safari-goers comprises of luxury bungalows, economy huts, camping and picnic sites.
Contact: www.daanviljoen.com
Walk at Avis Dam
Avis Dam Nature Reserve is a Windhoek landmark offering diverse hiking and mountain bike trails, with a wide variety of bird species, very popular with birdwatchers. A jewel of nature of beautiful mountainous landscape together with the water of the dam creates a stunning calming atmosphere. Many come for a photoshoot, cycling or to hike, while some come here to walk their dogs. A romantic spot to watch stunning sunsets and sunrises with the one you love.
Christ Church
The Christ Church aka Christuskirche, is a historic landmark and Lutheran church in Windhoek, designed by architect Gottlieb Redecker. City of Windhoek’s best recognised and most incredible landmark. The conflicting neo-Gothic and art nouveau style architecture is glorious, with equally impressive attention to detail on the inside and outside. Christ Church, Windhoek, is simply one of the most unique German styled church in Africa, very iconic and beautiful.
Namibia Craft Centre
The Namibia Craft Centre is African goods and one stop shop for all of your craft needs in the Namibian capital. The centre offers a wide range of items embodying its true essence including authentic Africa, local details and far more. The perfect tourist spot to go before leaving Windhoek and get souvenirs and local craftworks for your family and friends back home. There’s a wide selection of local artisans and good prices, nice food area for restoring and have local culinary taste for lunch.
Contact: www.namibiacraftcentre.com
National Art Gallery of Namibia
For an overview of Namibian art, this is the art gallery to visit. Located in the capital city of Namibia, it displays in a permanent exhibition of Namibian, African and European Art. There’s also an exhibition focusing on the work of renowned Hungarian painter Mihály Munkácsy, as well as temporary exhibitions running alongside the permanent collection. Founded in 1990, the National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN), is a state-owned institution situated in central Windhoek, Namibia.
Contact: www.nagn.org.na
Accommodation in Windhoek
To make the most of your city break in Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, save by booking your hotel by exploring accommodation options that are easy on the wallet. See our guide and list the best budget hotels in Windhoek, Namibia.
