Windhoek, meaning ‘windy corner’, is Namibia’s capital and the usual point of arrival and departure into the country. In a pleasant and convenient central position surrounded by the Auas and Eros mountains, Windhoek has a growing population but is still relatively small at around 300,000 people. The architecture is German and South African-inspired, with a well organised layout. It offers a mixture of the modern and traditional, with sophisticated international fashion boutiques, traditional African clothing and gemstone shops, pavement markets selling wood carvings, jewellery and other arts and crafts.
There are several 19th and 20th century German historical buildings of interest such as the Alte Feste, railway station, Tintinpalast, the Turnhalle and Gathemann House. Other places of interest include the National Botanical Garden, National Theatre of Namibia, Meteorite Fountain and the Warehouse Theatre.
As well as the usual steak houses, pubs and coffee bars, Windhoek has a wide range of à la carte menu restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Namibian beers can be sampled at various beer gardens, such as the famous Joe’s Beerhouse, which is also a restaurant specialising in game dishes.
Windhoek has a good range of comfortable accommodation choices, mainly guesthouses. Our favourites include the Galton House, The Elegant Farmstead, Olive Grove and The Olive Exclusive Boutique Hotel.
