Words & pics – Di Brown
Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are the major towns in Namibia; the rest of the country consists of small, unspoilt towns separated by vast distances of dramatic semi-desert landscapes. Numerous hills have shaped the development of this picturesque city, which boasts a well-maintained road network, minimal traffic, and more trees than one would expect in a water-scarce country.
Windhoek offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the comfort, amenities and convenience of a cosmopolitan city before or after their road trip or safari.
Pamper
Dry and dusty after days on the road, or dehydrated and stiff after a long-haul flight, why not treat yourself to a pamper session?
Gents, head to Jaybird and Blade, a barbershop that serves excellent coffee, has a unique vibe and stocks a high-quality range of beard products. The Old Power Station Shopping Centre in Southern Industrial is where you will find Ancient Organics for massages and beauty treatments, Healing Touch Aesthetics for massages, and Clark3s.eyecandy for lashes.
HINT: Several of the top hotels offer onsite spa facilities, so be sure to check this when choosing your accommodation.
Shop
Carl List Mall in the CBD for unique souvenirs, hand-crafted artefacts, jewellery and leather wear, travel accessories, restaurants, clothing boutiques and coffee shops.
Bougain Villa is a charming mismatch of numerous European architectural styles that work to Bougain Villa is a charming small centre with an enclosed courtyard. Support local skills and job creation by supporting African Kirikara. They sell gorgeous rugs hand-woven from soft karakul and Swakara wool, exquisite jewellery, ceramics, textiles and local art. Crafters will love Jenny’s Place, Art & Crafts Emporium, and when you have shopped till you drop, relax at The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro.
HINT: Windhoek Luxury Suites is a great option for an overnight before heading out on safari.
Old Breweries Craft Market is quite touristy, but it’s a fun place to visit. Set in the historic brewery building, it offers a selection of local crafts, souvenirs, clothing, books and a cafe. And Sam’s Hobbies and Toys in the suburb of Klein Windhoek is fantastic if you are shopping for kids. It has a wide range of Lego, dinosaurs, unicorns and everything that people under 12 deem cool
Explore
The impressive Independence Museum is dedicated to the country’s anti-colonial and independence struggle, reflected in memorabilia, artefacts, and outstanding artwork. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the restaurant on the top floor.
Over the road is Alte Fest, built in 1890. Now closed to the public, it is worth taking a look at the old cannons, statues, and artefacts on the veranda.
HINT: The iconic Christuskirche is beautiful inside and out; however, since the COVID-19 pandemic, the doors have been locked. You can try asking to be let inside.
The Heroes’ Acre Monument is 10 kilometres south of Windhoek and is the burial place of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president. Beautiful architecture in a tranquil location, it is a place to walk around and reflect. The marble obelisk and huge bronze statue of the Unknown Soldier are imposing, as is the 5000-seater arena.
Attractions
Sundowners at The Stratos Restaurant and Bar on the 15th floor of the Avani Hotel is the coolest place in town. This hotel lights up and changes colour, you can’t miss it. Feeling lucky? Head to the high-rolling casino at the Avani Hotel or the Desert Jewel Casino at the Windhoek Country Club Resort. You can also book a round of golf here.
Visit Okapuka Safari Lodge, a 30-minute drive from town. Enjoy a meal overlooking the lawns and ancient camel thorn trees where warthogs and graze. Book a game drive to see giraffe, ostriches and, most importantly, white rhino – but be sure to book a day in advance.
HINT: Get into safari mode with an overnight at Zannier Omaande Hotel located conveniently close to the airport.
Enjoy a nature walk on the trails around the Avis Dam, located at the edge of town. Peaceful, with gorgeous mountain views and indigenous vegetation. For safety, it is not recommended to walk here alone, although plenty of local dog walkers do.
Eat
Lodges are known for their exquisite cuisine, but sometimes the choices are limited. If you’ve been camping and self-catering, it’s nice to enjoy a good restaurant before and after your trip.
Hotel Heinitzberg- Leo’s at the Castle for fine dining, an excellent wine cellar and spectacular views over the city. For the best steak in town, go to The Butcher Block, in Klein Windhoek. Meet the locals over good food in a relaxed environment at Riverview Restaurant at Klein Windhoek Guesthouse. Touristy, but interesting and cheerful, is Joe’s Beerhouse.
HINT: For a full-on local pub with noisy Namibians, open mic and quiz nights, go to The Handle Bar. Phone first, as they might be closed for a private function.
Twenty kilometres out of town is Elisenheim Guest Farm and Farmers Kitchen. An indoor and outdoor venue, serving fantastic German food and great beer, and featuring an impressive kids’ play area.
Essentials:
The flight time from Cape Town or Johannesburg to Windhoek is approximately two hours. The airport is a 30-minute drive from town.
Hosea Kutako International Airport is small, but modern and clean, and is located is 45 kilometres outside of town, the trip taking about half an hour.
Arrive 90 minutes before departure. After customs, you’ll find a couple of curio shops, a small duty-free, and two pricey eateries, so rather make use of the fantastic coffee shop and restaurant outside before you head through customs.
Purchase an inexpensive SIM card, airtime, and data on arrival. The Namibian dollar is pegged to the South African rand at a one-to-one exchange rate and you can use rands but will receive change in Namibian dollars.
