Windhoek

Adults

Young Adult

12‐15

Children

2‐11

Infants

< 2yrs

Rooms

Rooms

Windhoek

Namibia

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is located in a basin between the Khomas Highland, Auas and Eros Mountains.

Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia and is a unique blend of African and German culture, making it a unique travel destination. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes and is known for its charming architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse history. The city center is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Alte Feste Museum, which is housed in a 19th-century fortress that was once used as a German military barracks. Visitors can learn about the country's history and its colonial past, as well as explore the exhibits that showcase the traditional culture of Namibia's many indigenous peoples. Windhoek is also home to several art galleries, museums, and cultural centers, making it a great destination for those interested in the arts. One of the most popular is the National Museum of Namibia, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the country's people, culture, and history. For nature lovers, Windhoek is a great base for exploring the surrounding landscapes. Just a short drive from the city, visitors can find themselves in the heart of the Namib Desert, with its breathtaking landscapes of sand dunes and rocky mountains. The area is also home to a number of wildlife reserves and parks, where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The city is also known for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes serving a range of cuisines. From traditional Namibian dishes, such as grilled meat and stews, to international flavors, there's something for everyone. In addition, the city is home to several excellent craft breweries, making it a popular destination for beer lovers. Windhoek also offers a range of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure. From hot air balloon rides over the desert to guided hikes through the nearby mountains, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and experience the natural beauty of the area. For those interested in extreme sports, there's also a thriving paragliding scene, with several local companies offering guided tours and lessons. In conclusion, Windhoek is a city that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to nature and adventure. With its charming architecture, diverse history, and stunning landscapes, Windhoek is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Namibia.

The majority of tourists visiting Namibia on a fly drive safari start their adventure in the capital as it is the main entry point to the country. There are several large international companies offering rental cars at Windhoek International Airport.
In 2013 the population of Windhoek was approximately 342,000 people. Despite the large increase in population over the last few years the city centre is extremely clean, and mostly trouble free. Most tourists comment on the cleanliness of the city, and often pronounce it to be a most un-African city (a somewhat back-handed compliment).The city centre is characterised by a proliferation of German style buildings, a lasting reminder of Namibia's early colonial history. Early buildings such as the Alte Feste (old fort), Christuskirche and Tintenpalast (the parliament buildings) are of particular historical interest. In a wonderful display of irony, the Alte Feste Fort, once the bastion of German colonialism, now houses the National Museum which places particular emphasis on the freedom struggle and Namibian independence, right in front of the fort is the iconic Reiterdenkmal (equestrian memorial). Other notable buildings in Windhoek include St Mary's Cathedral and the Turnhalle Building.Windhoek has had several names, many inspired by the hot water springs found in the area, the earliest of which were the Damara /Ais //Gams (/ indicates a click in Nama spelling) which means firewater and the Herero Otjimuise or place of steam. The area was also called Queen Adelaide's Baths for a (mercifully) brief time. Several opinions are offered for the origin of the present name, the most popular of these is that sometime before 1840 Jonker Afrikaner, a Nama leader, named the area Winterhoek, after the farm in South Africa where he was born. Windhoek, or windy corner, is a corruption of this name.During the day the city centre has a European cafe culture, German cuisine dominates, but Namibian influence can be found in the quantity and quality of meat on offer.

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