Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek offers a perfectly balanced experience of Africa’s natural and historical landscapes as well as modern, urban sophistication. The city skyline is more like a timeline reflecting its history with buildings from different periods ranging from 19th-century cathedrals to Colonial German castles and modern high-rises. From historical sights, shopping malls, and markets, the city has got it all to quench your wanderlust. Windhoek is the perfect destination for those looking to explore Africa in its truest sense and still be able to take recluse in their Western comforts.
If you have ever wondered why you should visit Windhoek in Namibia, I have some incredible reasons that will have you booking your holiday in no time. As you are aware, I had the opportunity to explore Namibia as Air Namibia’s guest a few weeks ago and toured some of the natural wonders the country has to offer, enjoyed some delicious local cuisine and indulge in some exciting activities.
Without further ado, here are some incredible reasons why you should visit Windhoek, Namibia at least once in a lifetime:
Stunning scenery
A series of scenic valleys, towering mountains, and the surrounding suburbs – Windhoek’s landscapes will really take your breath away. You will be amazed by its beauty as you drive from the airport to the city. The picturesque hills of Khomas Hochland lie to the west, Eros Mountains to the northeast and the Auas Mountains to the southeast. The city is located at an altitude of 1646 metres in the central highlands of Namibia. The roads are always clean, the air is always clear and the sky is always blue! Perfect scenery!
German colonial influence
Windhoek is certainly an exciting city to visit. Even though the city has a distinctive flavour that is evident wherever you go, you’ll discover a collection of preserved German colonial-era architecture as you stroll along some office blocks. With its unique architectural charm and urban character, Windhoek is a city that perfectly balances its interesting past with its dazzling present day.
Christuskirche in all its glory
Christuskirche (The Christ Church) is the well-known landmark in the city of Windhoek. It’s an unofficial symbol of the city, a neo-Gothic style church standing as a reminder of the German colonisation. It was constructed in 1907 from local sandstone and designed by a renowned architect Gottlieb Redecker. The church is somewhat at the centre of the city, with a unique design looking more like a quirky gingerbread house. The Christ Church is one of Windhoek’s most photographed attractions; so, don’t be surprised when you see tourists getting their Instagram during your visit.
Fairytale castles
If you’re romantic like me and you believe in fairy tales, you’ll love to visit the medieval castles in Windhoek. These castles will bring you a glimmer of joy, and remind you that you are destined for a happy and beautiful life, and of course the ‘happily ever after’ life. (hehe..) Anyways, if you’re interested in castle-hopping, the city is home to three medieval castles Schwerinsburg, Sanderburg, and Heinitzburg Castle. They are filled with aristocratic atmosphere and majestic furnishings; they have centuries of history that’ll fascinate you. You can even splurge on a luxurious castle hotel stay to take a peek into the lives of the ancient royalties.
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Windhoek museums
Windhoek is a city of museums, where you can immerse yourself in Namibia’s unique history and culture. Experience the past, present and the future by spending some time in these museums, and learn more about the local arts and crafts. The National Museum of Namibia, Independence Memorial Museum and Owala Museum display the city’s rich history and culture dating from its African roots to the times of colonisation and independence. The National Earth Sciences Museum features a collection of geological wonders, from meteorites, diamonds, fossils to rocks and diamonds. It’s also a great place to learn about the geological history of Namibia and how these gems are collected. Other museums to visit include Independence Museum, Alte Feste, Windhoek City Museum, Trans-Namib Railroad Museum, The Project Room and StArt Art Gallery.
Stunning 360-degree view of Windhoek
After exploring the National Museum of Namibia, you can take the elevator to the top floor of the building to enjoy a 360-degree view over the city. There’s a café on this floor, offering a variety of drinks and snacks. You must buy something from the café if you want to see the view or take photos of the cityscape. We visited the café late at night but we were still able to catch the beautiful view of Windhoek at dawn. It was breathtaking!
Remarkable food scene
Windhoek’s food scene caters to diverse palates with a host of cuisines primarily dominated by West African and European cuisines. From bustling bistros to fine dining gourmet restaurants with scenic views and laid-back cafes, the city offers a variety of dining experiences. Joe’s Beerhouse, an eclectic restaurant, and steakhouse is the happening place in the city, this is where you can catch most of the action. The spot is a favourite among locals and tourists alike to catch up with friends and enjoy succulent meats with a fine bottle of wine or beer. O Portugal, Sardinia Blue Olive, and Pepata are some other popular dining spots in the city. For a fun night-out, Stellenbosch Wine Bar is a vibrant place to be.
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Luxury accommodation
Windhoek offers a variety of luxury accommodation for every type of traveller. From boutique hotels to cosy cottages, hillside hotels, ecostays, bed & breakfast, and service apartments, one can find a room that suits their personality. If you are a luxury traveller, you should consider staying at Hilton Windhoek, the only 5-star luxury hotel in the city. Other great accommodation options include Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino, Windhoek Country Club, and Safari Court Hotel. You can also enjoy a royal stay in a real life castle, Heinitzburg, once a German castle now housing a hotel and a restaurant.
Craft marketplace
For a wonderful collection of arts and crafts, beadwork and wooden carvings, you should visit the craft market on Independence Avenue, opposite the Avani Hotel in Windhoek. You’ll find a variety of African arts and crafts made and sold by the Himba women. The Namibia Craft Centre located in the Old Brewery complex is also a great place to find the perfect souvenirs to take home. It’s a shopping centre featuring a wide range of handicrafts from the rural communities and ethnic groups in Namibia.
Windhoek Zoo Park
Nothing says summer like an outdoor picnic in Windhoek Zoo Park! It’s a perfect spot to throw down a blanket and enjoy the atmosphere and scenery with your friends. The park is a recreational area with gardens, lawns, pond, and shady trees. It’s located on Independence Avenue, just a walking distance to the hill that leads to Christuskirche. There’s a small restaurant/café in the park, where you can enjoy some good food and drinks. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind after exploring the city and all it offers.
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Take a walk around Windhoek – Hofmeyer walk
Take a leisurely Hofmeyer walk around Windhoek through the Klein Windhoek Valley. The walk takes about an hour, offering stunning views of the city layout, natural vegetation and the aloes – the emblem of Windhoek. You will love to see the aloes during the winter season, especially in March and April when they bloom.
Daan Viljoen Game Park
Daan Viljoen Game Park is one of the best places to go bird watching in Namibia. The game park is located near Windhoek, in the hill area of Khomas Hochland. It’s the smallest game park in Namibia and it’s home to over 200 bird species, including the green-backed heron. The wildlife reserve offers stunning views of hills with gemsboks, springboks, mountain zebras and other native wildlife roaming in the shrubs.
Fantastic shopping opportunities
If you’re looking for shopping opportunities amid your itinerary of Windhoek activities, the city offers a variety of shopping malls and vibrant markets to explore. You can start your shopping tour from the Grove Mall of Namibia, which features an array of department stores, and shops where you can pick up anything from clothing to food and souvenirs. If you love local markets, there are several street markets in the city where you will find local produce, arts and crafts as well as one-of-a-kind items. Other shopping malls include Town Square Mall, Park Food Shopping Mall, Khomas Grove Mall and many others.
Some other things to do…
Take a trip through the world’s oldest desert at Sesriem & Sossusvlei to take in the scenic sand dunes and watch the sunrise illuminate and outline the dunes in gold. Etosha National Park and the seaside town of Swakopmund are a wildlife lover’s paradise to catch a glimpse of native wildlife and birds. Adrenaline junkies can go on Mountain safaris, desert quad biking and even hiking in the Fish River Canyon in Windhoek. Culture vultures can indulge in cultural safaris to take a peak into the lifestyle and customs of the native tribes.
Getting around
Taxis are the primary mode of transport among tourists in the city and connect all parts of the city. These taxis typically charge from N$10-70 for anywhere around the city, metered during the ride or calculated on a kilometre basis. Taxis driving into the city from the Chief Hosea Kutako International airport may charge ranging from N$350-400.
Windhoek is a sight to behold! Here are some photos that will make you fall in love with Windhoek:
Interested in visiting Windhoek, here’s how you can apply for Namibia Visa in Nigeria. Check out more information about things you should know about Namibia. For affordable flights from Lagos to Windhoek, click here to book now.
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