If your journey to Namibia begins or ends in Windhoek, the nation’s capital and home to Hosea Kutako International Airport, consider extending your stay. Often perceived as a mere transit point for onward adventures, Windhoek offers a captivating blend of historical significance, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty, deserving of exploration beyond a fleeting layover. This guide unveils some of the best things to do in Windhoek, inviting you to discover the city’s unique charm and the surrounding region’s allure.
Encounters with Wildlife and Nature
Feed the Giraffes at Voigtland Guesthouse
Nestled between Windhoek and the airport, Voigtland Guesthouse presents an unforgettable experience. This isn’t just accommodation; it’s a destination. Constructed in the early 1900s, the guesthouse is strategically built into a hillside, providing beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere.
The true allure of Voigtland lies in its unique activities. Imagine indulging in a delightful high tea, accompanied by giraffes gracefully grazing nearby. Guests have the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants, feeding them and observing their behavior up close. The guesthouse also houses a cattle farm, offering tours to provide insights into local agricultural practices. Nature enthusiasts can explore the extensive trail system on foot or by mountain bike, immersing themselves in the surrounding savanna.
Voigtland offers more than just wildlife encounters. The luxurious rooms feature en-suite bathrooms and contemporary African decor, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. A wellness spa offers a variety of massage treatments, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate. For adventurous souls, game drives into the antelope range and quad bike rentals are available, providing thrilling explorations of the Namibian landscape.
Go Birding at the National Botanic Garden of Namibia
Located off Sam Nujoma Avenue, the National Botanic Garden of Namibia offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s unique flora. This 30-acre sanctuary presents a different perspective on botanical gardens, embracing the natural state of the environment.
Rather than manicured lawns and exotic flowers, the garden showcases Namibia’s indigenous plant life. This approach conserves water and highlights the resilience and beauty of desert-adapted species. Stroll along self-guided trails, and you will discover diverse plant life, including aloe, succulents, acacias, and a remarkable quiver tree forest. Information boards provide insights into the various species, while bird and plant lists are available at the reception.
The National Botanic Garden of Namibia is a haven for birdwatchers, attracting over 75 species to its diverse habitats. The garden’s dam serves as a focal point, drawing a variety of birds. Indigenous wildlife thrives within the garden’s boundaries, including the charismatic rock hyrax, or dassie. Open Monday through Friday with free admission, the garden offers an accessible and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts.
Take a Tour of Daan Viljoen Game Reserve
For a full-day excursion into the Namibian wilderness, venture to the Daan Viljoen Game Reserve. Located just 15 miles from Windhoek’s city center, this reserve offers convenient access to a diverse array of wildlife.
The absence of large predators allows visitors to explore the park on foot, bike, or by vehicle. Two well-marked hiking trails wind through the landscape, offering opportunities to encounter wildlife up close. An off-road route enables exploration by vehicle, providing access to more remote areas of the reserve.
The park’s allure lies in its ungulate species, including the desert-adapted oryx, steenbok, and klipspringer. Other iconic African animals, such as giraffe and zebra, roam the reserve. Birdwatchers will appreciate the abundance of resident species, with over 200 recorded. Look out for endemics like the Rüppell’s parrot and near-endemics like the Monteiro’s hornbill. Extend your visit by staying at the Sun Karros lodge, which offers chalets, restaurants, and swimming pools.
Historical and Cultural Explorations
Admire the Architecture at Christuskirche (Christ Church)
Christuskirche, or Christ Church, stands as a prominent landmark in Windhoek, gracing the rotaries that lead to the parliament buildings on Robert Mugabe Avenue. This historical church embodies a blend of architectural styles and serves as a testament to Namibia’s colonial past.
Construction of Christuskirche began in 1907 by Windhoek’s German Lutheran congregation. Completed and consecrated three years later, it stands as the oldest Lutheran church in Namibia. German engineer Gottlieb Redecker designed the church, blending neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque elements. The church’s construction required the establishment of a railway line to transport local sandstone from the Avis Dam. Materials were also sourced from afar, including Italian Carrara marble for the portico. Kaiser Wilhelm, the German Emperor, contributed three of the church’s stained-glass windows.
Christuskirche holds German-language services at 10 a.m. on Sundays. Guided tours can be arranged by contacting the church office via email, providing insights into the church’s history and architectural details.
Buy Local Art at Namibia Craft Center
The Namibia Craft Center provides a treasure trove of authentic souvenirs and handcrafted goods. Situated near the center of town in the Old Breweries Complex, this center offers a safe, clean, and community-minded shopping experience.
The Craft Center houses over 40 independent shops, which provide employment for approximately 4,000 artists from remote areas of Namibia. A vibrant array of stalls showcases traditional Namibian crafts, including hand-carved tree roots, copper jewelry, and silk scarves. Explore bookstores, leatherworks shops, and the Craft Café, which specializes in locally sourced Namibian produce. Whether seeking a vibrant breakfast or lunch, the Craft Café is a popular choice for visitors and residents alike.
Take a Bike Ride in Katutura Township
Venture north of Windhoek’s city center to discover Katutura township, a district with a poignant history. The name Katutura translates to "the place where people do not want to live" in the native Herero language.
This name originated in the 1950s when Black residents of Windhoek suburbs were forcibly relocated to Katutura under apartheid law. Residents faced high rent for inadequate housing and long commutes to inner-city jobs. Today, 60 percent of Windhoek’s population resides in Katutura.
Poverty is prevalent in Katutura, yet it is a vibrant center of culture. A visit to the township offers a glimpse into the lives of Namibia’s urban population. One of the safest and most enriching ways to experience township life is on a bicycle tour with Katu Tours. On a 3.5-hour excursion, you will meet Katutura’s residents, purchase local crafts, and savor traditional Kapana (grilled meat) at the township’s lively marketplace.
Learn About Apartheid at the Independence Memorial Museum
The Independence Memorial Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Namibia’s struggle for racial freedom. The museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, artifacts, and informative displays.
In front of the museum stand two significant statues: one of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first President, and the Genocide Memorial, which commemorates the atrocities committed against native Namibians by German troops in the early twentieth century. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open seven days a week.
Enhance your visit by exploring the National Museum of Namibia, located next door. The National Museum showcases fascinating displays about Namibia’s San rock paintings. The building itself is of historical significance, originally serving as an old German fort dating back to 1890.
Sip a Drink on the Balcony of Love
Ascend to the top of the Independence Memorial Museum to discover the "Balcony of Love," offering panoramic views of the city.
On this level of the museum, you can enjoy one of three balconies, visit the bar for a drink, and dine at the restaurant. From the balcony, you can see iconic landmarks such as the German Lutheran Church. From here, you can also see the oldest standing building in Windhoek, Alte Feste, which once served as a German Fort during the time of colonization, but is now closed to the public. In the courtyard of Alte Feste sits a controversial statue of a German corporal on a horse (reminiscent of German oppression), which can only be viewed from the Balcony of Love.
Best Things to Do in Windhoek: Best Things to Do in Windhoek provides a compelling invitation to discover the unique character of this Namibian capital. From wildlife encounters to historical explorations, Windhoek offers a diverse range of experiences that will enrich your journey through this captivating country. Plan your itinerary, immerse yourself in the culture, and create lasting memories in Windhoek. Best Things to Do in Windhoek, Namibia, are waiting for you. The Best Things to Do in Windhoek are calling.
