City
Windhoek
Namibia's humming capital and likely the start of your journey
The capital city of Namibia, Windhoek, has the charm of a small town with the conveniences and excitement of a city. Communities have been coming to the area since prehistoric times, attracted by the naturally occurring hot springs (to which its original name /Ai //Gams, a Nama word meaning “firewater”, refers). The city centre is a mix of modern architecture set cheek by jowl with historic buildings from its colonial past. Accommodation in and around Windhoek varies from intimate guesthouses to international hotels, tranquil guest farms, and lodges.
Highlights
1
Visit the Christuskirche, a beautiful German colonial church with stained-glass windows.
2
Have a picnic on the lawn in the Parliament Gardens.
3
Toast the sunset from the top of one of the city’s many rooftop bars.
4
Catch a local production at the National Theatre of Namibia.
5
Stock up on souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans at the Craft Centre.
6
Get a dose of art at the National Art Gallery of Namibia.
7
Learn more about Namibia’s past at the Independence Memorial Museum.
Find it on the map
Best time to go to Windhoek
Best
Good
Acceptable
Windhoek is great to visit all year round, but especially so in the winter months between May and September, when the weather is cool and dry, with chilly mornings and lots of sunshine. Thunderstorms bring the drama and drench the city during the rainy season between February and April. Spring is mild but windy, while summers can get especially hot in the capital.
Featured Windhoek stays
Daan Viljoen Lodge
A tranquil stay in natural surroundings close to Windhoek
From$13 /ppn
Facilities