Things To Do
in Windhoek
Windhoek is Namibia's capital and largest city, situated in a basin surrounded by low hills. The city blends German colonial architecture with modern African culture and a warm, welcoming vibe. It serves as a gateway to the Namib Desert, wildlife reserves, and vibrant craft markets.
Windhoek offers a compact, easy-to-navigate urban scene with a surprisingly cosmopolitan dining and nightlife culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Joe's Beerhouse, a famous local spot. Afterward, head to the Independence Memorial Museum, where you can immerse yourself in Namibia's rich history and culture. Stroll through the streets of Windhoek, admiring the blend of colonial and modern architecture that characterizes the city.
In the afternoon, visit the Christ Church, an iconic landmark with its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Next, explore the Old Fort, which now houses a museum showcasing Namibia's military history. Wrap up your afternoon by visiting the vibrant Craft Centre, where you can shop for unique Namibian souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro, known for its exquisite wine selection and gourmet dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk in the city center, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of Windhoek by night. End your evening at a cozy café, sipping on a local beer while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a trip to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Once there, take a guided tour to see the mesmerizing landscapes and diverse wildlife, bringing your camera to capture the stunning scenery. Look out for the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this arid environment, making for an unforgettable experience.
After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking views of the park. Continue your exploration with an afternoon hike up to the famous Dune 45, where the towering sand dunes offer an incredible photo opportunity. As you hike, keep an eye out for the fascinating desert wildlife that inhabits the area.
Return to Windhoek in the evening, where you can enjoy a traditional Namibian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like kapana and biltong. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar or pub to experience the vibrant nightlife and mingle with locals. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the stars in the clear Namibian sky before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and English widely understood
- Convenient gateway to desert safaris and wildlife reserves
- Summer heat can be intense; some areas are car-dependent
- Public transport is limited outside the central city
- "Goeie dag" - Good day/Hello (Afrikaans)
- "Baie dankie" - Thank you
- "Asseblief" - Please
- "Waar is die toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Windhoek
Visit one of these nice places.
German colonial church with red-brick walls and palm-lined streets—great for architectural shots.
Manicured greens with statues and city views; ideal for golden-hour photography.
National memorial with sculpted figures and expansive terraces for dramatic portraits.
Rugged viewpoints and wildlife scenes just outside the city.
Food in Windhoek
Windhoek Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Namibian barbecue of grilled meat, often enjoyed with mieliepap and chakalaka.
Must-Try!
Street-style grilled meat skewers popular at markets and roadside stalls.
Slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a cast-iron pot over a fire.
Maize porridge served creamy or stiff, often accompanied by gravies or stews.
Game-meat dishes featured on many menus, a Namibian specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful stalls with local crafts, snacks, and ready-to-eat street foods such as kapana.
Historic market offering local foods, crafts, and souvenirs in the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; English is widely spoken, but polite to use local greetings where possible.
Dress neatly when visiting religious sites; modest attire is appreciated.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in private or traditional settings.
Safety
Tipping in Windhoek
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is common if service is not included; small tips for guides and drivers.
Cards widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; carry some cash for markets and small vendors; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet-season afternoons with hot days (often above 30°C/86°F) and occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated.
Dry, mild days and cool nights; comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Windhoek at Night
Hiking in Windhoek
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Close to Windhoek with marked trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic viewpoints.
Urban hillside hike offering city views from a short climb.
Rugged, scenic landscapes suitable for day trips from Windhoek.
Airports
How to reach Windhoek by plane.
Namibia's main international gateway located about 42 km from Windhoek; accessible by taxi or shuttle.
Small domestic airport within Windhoek for internal flights and general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large Black ethnic groups such as Ovambo, Damara, and Herero.
A significant minority with German and Afrikaans cultural influences.
A diverse urban mix including Caprivians and people of mixed descent.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport with local leagues and enthusiastic support.
Established clubs and occasional international matches.
Growing presence with national and regional matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Windhoek.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable stews, salads, and mieliepap; ask for vegetable-based dishes and sides.