There’s never been a better time to Namibia visit than now. The moment you arrive at the country’s major airport in Windhoek (Hosea Kutako International Airport), you will feel the city’s charm tugging at your sleeve to get your attention. It’s simply hard to resist!
Namibia is like no other country in Southern Africa, with its rolling hills, Skeleton Coast, timeless desert, beautiful cities, majestic canyons, and stunning coastlines, you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. It’s a destination whereby you can discover the architectural gems and explore museums in a city in one day, then hit the beach and go sandboarding on the dunes in another city the next day. Then you can crown your adventures by sampling a range of delicious traditional meals the country offers. What more could you ask for?
Everywhere you look in Namibia seems other-worldly, almost every corner contains something bewitching and beautiful. Not trying to sweet-talk you, Namibia is an all-encompassing country with so much more to offer than most people realize. It’ll surprise and impress you with everything you want, from art and culture, food, business to education.
If you’ve never been to Namibia and you’re not sure of what you will find there, check out things you probably should know about Namibia.
Whether this is your first time in this beautiful country or you’re looking to go beyond the basics and explore all it has to offer, our list covers it all. Here are some awesome and fun things to do in Namibia on your next visit.
Fun Things to do in Windhoek
The Capital of Namibia, Windhoek is the gateway to the boundless adventures the country offers. However, the city offers a wide range of interesting attractions and some fun activities to enjoy. Windhoek is a beautiful city in its own right with a mix of the old and modern charm. You should definitely spend a day or two in this city and explore everything it has to offer. Here are some of them:
1. Visit the city’s most iconic landmark: The Christuskirche
Located close to the Parliament building in the city centre, this beautiful old Lutheran church is well-known for its historic significance, magnificence, and splendour. The Christ Church Windhoek showcases amazing architecture as it was constructed from quartz sandstone, and features a mix of Gothic revival, Art Nouveau and neo-Romanesque influences. It’s simply a must-visit during your stay in the capital city.
2. Visit the Independence Memorial Museum for a glimpse in the past
The Independence Museum is located between the Alte Feste and the Christ Church (Christuskirche) in Windhoek. It’s often referred to as the coffee machine by the locals due to its architectural features. The museum was opened in 2014 on the Independence Day and it showcases independence history of the country. It stands as a symbolic reminder of the colonial past of Germany in Namibia and keeps the memories of the genocide alive. The museum also has a café on the top floor that features some picturesque views of the city. You can visit the café, have some drinks while you enjoy the panoramic views of Windhoek. Thus, you can visit this museum either for the history of Namibia or the view it offers or even both. You can also visit the National Museum of Namibia (Alte Feste means Old Fort in German), which is located next to the Tintepalast, and it’s one of the oldest buildings in the country. If you are a history lover, you will be more interested in exploring this museum. Although there isn’t so much to see or explore inside the museum, you can stop by to admire the old building itself.
3. Shop for souvenirs at Namibia Craft Center
If you’re after something crafty for souvenirs, the Namibia Craft Center is the best place for an authentic art & craft shopping experience. You’ll find a wide range of crafts and artworks locally made by Namibian artisans. You can get some souvenirs for your friends and family at home such as beaded jewelry, gemstones, wood carved crafts and traditional clothing at affordable prices. After shopping, you can visit the Craft Café on the top floor for some delicious homemade baked cheesecake and apple crumble.
You can also visit the Post Street Mall, where you will find street vendors selling arts and crafts. You can bargain for a good price here as the vendors usually sell at ‘touristic’ prices. You’ll also find some Himba Women right across Avani Windhoek Hotel, selling some crafts and pieces of jewellry.
4. Visit the Penduka Village
Penduka is a development and training social enterprise created for local less privileged women in Namibia. The women learn income-generating activities such as pottery, glass recycling to make jewelry, storytelling embroidery, and African batik – using natural resources. You can visit the village to see how these women make the crafts and also browse through the different products they have made. You can also shop for crafts made by these women online on Penduka website. Penduka Village is located in Katutura, on the shoreline of the Goreangab Lake, featuring beautiful scenery and calm atmosphere. You can stay here for a day or two at Penduka Village Lodge with a terraced restaurant, which provides views over the lake.
5. Create lifetime memories at Joe’s Beerhouse
If Joe’s Beerhouse is not on your culinary itinerary while in Windhoek, then you haven’t really visited the city. The Beerhouse is one of the popular attractions in the country and it’s a great place to hang out at night. Both visitors and locals love this place! With a unique ambiance, Joe’s offers a wide range of delicious foods and tasty drinks – especially beers. It’s a place where you create memories and build relationships that will last a lifetime.
6. Enjoy breathtaking views at Hilton Hotel Terrace
When it comes to breathtaking views, it doesn’t get much better than the top terrace at Hilton Windhoek Hotel, which overlooks the city. Hilton Windhoek is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the city featuring a luxurious spa, stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, swimming pool and fantastic restaurants. You can wallow in the swimming pool or sit and relax at the rooftop bar while you sip on your cocktail and enjoy the dramatic blue skyline of the city. It’s a sight to be seen!
Interested in visiting Windhoek, here’s are some reasons to go now. Check out more information about things you should know about Namibia. For affordable flights from Lagos to Windhoek, click here to book now.
Have any questions about your next holiday in Windhoek, Namibia? Please ask us in the comment section below.
