Things To Do
in Windhoek
Nestled in the heart of the central highlands, this city presents a harmonious blend of African and European cultures, underscored by its German colonial architecture and vibrant street markets. As the capital and largest city of Namibia, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country, offering a unique urban experience on the African continent.
Known for its cleanliness and safety, the city is surrounded by rolling mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop and a mild climate, ideal for both residents and visitors.
- "Ombinda yange" - My name is
- "Wa kachikile" - How are you?
- "Tangi ningi" - Thank you
- "Omaanda" - Goodbye
- "Omahenje" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Independence Memorial Museum, which showcases Namibia's history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café nearby.
Visit the craft markets to shop for unique Namibian souvenirs and local art. Stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant to experience local cuisine.
Head to the Roof of Africa for sunset views over the city. Dine at a popular local restaurant serving Namibian specialties.
Visit the Namibia Wildlife Resorts in the morning for an introduction to the country's flora and fauna. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about conservation efforts.
Relax in the spacious gardens before grabbing lunch at the onsite café. Opt for a short nature walk to observe any wildlife.
Enjoy a quiet dinner at a nearby restaurant with a focus on organic and local ingredients. Spend some time relaxing at your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and diverse population.
- Pleasant climate with sunny days and cool nights.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife.
- Vibrant arts and music scene.
- Growing economy with opportunities for investment and business.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher cost of living compared to other Namibian cities.
- Water scarcity and environmental concerns.
- Challenges related to infrastructure and services.
- Potential safety concerns, especially in certain areas.
Best Activities in Windhoek
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views and diverse flora and fauna while hiking in the Auas Mountains near Windhoek.
Explore the rugged terrain and wildlife at Daan Viljoen Game Park on a thrilling mountain biking adventure.
Discover a variety of bird species while enjoying the peaceful surroundings at Avis Dam, a popular birdwatching spot near Windhoek.
Tours
Uncover the best of Windhoek with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Windhoek
Visit one of these nice places.
A suburb located on a hill that offers stunning panoramic views of Windhoek and the surrounding landscape, perfect for photos.
A historical fort and museum with a lookout point that provides a picturesque view of Windhoek and its surroundings, ideal for photography.
This iconic street in Windhoek is lined with colonial-era buildings and offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Windhoek
Windhoek Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Namibian porridge made from pearl millet and served with a variety of side dishes such as marula oil, wild spinach, and dried fish. Not to be missed at local eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
A popular Namibian snack made from dried, cured meat (commonly game meat) that's seasoned and air-dried. Available at various delis and markets across Windhoek.
A hearty stew cooked in a three-legged pot, featuring a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices. Best sampled at traditional Namibian eateries and lodges.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Windhoek better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, traditional Namibian snacks, and handmade crafts. Perfect for sampling local flavors and experiencing the vibrant street food scene.
A popular spot for street food, with vendors selling everything from vetkoek (deep-fried dough filled with mince or jam) to kapana (grilled meat) - a must-visit for an authentic culinary adventure.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Windhoek, it is common to greet people with a handshake or a simple 'hello' or 'good morning.' It is important to show respect by using the appropriate greetings based on the time of day and the person's age or status.
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Windhoek. It is important to address older individuals with respect and to listen carefully to their advice and opinions.
When visiting Windhoek, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting rural areas or participating in cultural events. Wearing revealing or overly casual clothing may be seen as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Windhoek with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Windhoek
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Windhoek, Namibia, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 10% gratuity may be included in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping. Additionally, rounding up the bill or leaving small change for services like taxi drivers and hotel staff is common.
In Windhoek, Namibia, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, particularly in urban areas. It's advisable to carry cash for more flexibility, especially when venturing to more remote locations.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Windhoek.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Expect hot temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall, but also lush landscapes and baby animals.
Windhoek at Night
Hiking in Windhoek
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park known for its stunning landscapes, desert scenery, and several hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Located just outside Windhoek, this park features various hiking trails with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy beautiful views.
A popular hiking destination in Windhoek, offering a moderately challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
This mountain range near Windhoek offers various trails for hiking, with both easy and difficult routes showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
A scenic drive with hikes available in the area, providing stunning views and unique geological features.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Windhoek through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Windhoek by plane.
The main international airport serving Windhoek, Namibia, located about 45 kilometers east of the city.
An airport located in the eastern part of Namibia, serving the town of Katima Mulilo, and is relatively close to the border with Zambia.
Situated in Walvis Bay, this airport serves as a gateway to the coastal region of Namibia and is about 350 kilometers from Windhoek.
Located near Swakopmund, this airport serves mainly regional flights and is approximately 400 kilometers from Windhoek.
Located in the northeastern part of Namibia, this airport serves the town of Rundu and is about 400 kilometers from Windhoek.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Windhoek, primarily consisting of the Ovambo people.
A significant ethnic group in Windhoek, known for their distinct language and culture.
An ethnic group with historical significance in Namibia, particularly known for their cattle herding traditions.
A community of mixed racial heritage, primarily descendants of white settlers and indigenous tribes.
Indigenous peoples who are hunter-gatherers with distinct cultural practices and languages.
Descendants of Dutch settlers, they are a smaller but historically significant group in Namibia.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities from different parts of Namibia and neighboring countries.
Includes individuals from various countries living in Windhoek for work, education, or other reasons.
The Soul of Windhoek
Discover the essence of Windhoek through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Windhoek, attracting large crowds and widespread participation at all levels.
Rugby enjoys a strong following in Windhoek, with several clubs and a competitive league system.
Cricket is popular in Windhoek, with many local teams and a growing interest in the sport, especially among the youth.
Netball has a significant following in Windhoek, particularly among women and girls, with numerous local competitions.
Athletics is widely practiced, with many events and competitions organized in various categories.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Windhoek, with several schools and communities actively participating in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Windhoek.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Namibian cuisine traditionally features meat, many restaurants in Windhoek offer vegetarian and vegan options, including innovative vegetable-based dishes and plant-based alternatives.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find accommodating options in several eateries in Windhoek, with many places offering gluten-free versions of traditional dishes and alternative grains.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Windhoek with these cultural adventures.
