Windhoek, Namibia
Region: Khomas Region
Geographic Coordinates: -22.570000, 17.083600
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 35.0°C (50°F to 95°F)
Climate: Dry and hot with low precipitation throughout the year, with occasional thunderstorms during the summer months.
Population: 322500
Language: English
Windhoek is the capital and largest city of Namibia, Located in the central part of the country. It is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 325, 000 people and is known for its unique blend of African and European cultures. The city has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s when it was established as a trading post by German colonizers.
Today, Windhoek boasts an impressive array of historical landmarks that reflect its colonial past, Including Christuskirche (Christ Church), Which was built in 1907 and still stands as one of the most iconic buildings in the city. One of Windhoek’s main attractions is its vibrant street markets where visitors can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. The Katutura Township Market is particularly popular among tourists as it offers an authentic glimpse into local life. Here visitors can sample traditional Namibian cuisine such as kapana (grilled meat) or mopane worms (a popular snack made from caterpillars).
Another must-visit attraction in Windhoek is Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, Which is located just outside the city limits. This stunning nature reserve covers over 4, 000 hectares and offers visitors the chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife up close including giraffes, Zebras and wildebeest. For those interested in learning more about Namibia’s history and culture, There are several museums worth visiting in Windhoek. The National Museum of Namibia houses exhibits on everything from pre-colonial times to modern-day politics while Alte Feste Museum showcases artifacts from Namibia’s colonial past.
Windhoek also has a thriving arts scene with numerous galleries showcasing contemporary African art alongside traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. The Warehouse Theatre hosts regular performances ranging from theatre productions to live music shows making it an excellent spot for entertainment lovers. Overall, Windhoek is a vibrant and fascinating city that offers visitors a glimpse into Namibia’s rich cultural heritage. From its bustling markets to its stunning natural attractions, There is something for everyone in this dynamic African metropolis.
- Christuskirche (Christ Church)
- Independence Memorial Museum
- Heroes’ Acre
- National Botanic Garden of Namibia
- Tintenpalast (Ink Palace)
- Zoo Park
- Alte Feste Museum
- Katutura Township Tour
- Daan Viljoen Game Reserve
- Namibian Craft Centre
- Windhoek was founded in 1840 by Jonker Afrikaner, a Nama leader who fought against German colonization.
- In 1890, Germany declared Windhoek the capital of German South West Africa (now Namibia).
- During World War I, South African troops captured Windhoek from the Germans in 1915.
- In 1966, the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) was founded in Windhoek to fight for independence from South African rule.
- In March 1990, Namibia gained independence from South Africa and Sam Nujoma became its first president.
- The iconic Christuskirche (Christ Church) was built by German colonialists between 1907 and 1910 and is a prominent landmark of Windhoek.
- Hosea Kutako International Airport is named after Hosea Kutako, a prominent Herero chief who fought against colonialism and advocated for Namibian independence.
- Dr Sam Nujoma Stadium is named after Namibia’s first president and serves as a venue for football matches and other events in Windhoek.
- Other notable people associated with Windhoek include Andimba Toivo ya Toivo (founder of SWAPO), Mburumba Kerina (co-designer of Namibia’s national flag), and Esther Muinjangue (Namibian politician).
- National Museum of Namibia: This museum provides insight into the country’s history, culture, and natural heritage.
- Alte Feste Museum: Located in Windhoek’s heart, this former fort showcases Namibia’s colonial history.
- Independence Memorial Museum: This museum commemorates Namibia’s struggle for independence from South Africa and features exhibits on the country’s political history.
- Katutura Township: A visit to this township offers a glimpse into everyday life in Windhoek and an opportunity to learn about the city’s diverse cultures and traditions.
- Christuskirche: This historic Lutheran church is one of Windhoek’s most recognizable landmarks, featuring stunning stained glass windows.
- Heroes’ Acre: This national monument honors those who fought for Namibia’s independence with a towering obelisk surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Zoo Park: A popular spot for picnics and relaxation that also hosts cultural events throughout the year.
- National Art Gallery of Namibia: The gallery displays contemporary art from local artists as well as international exhibitions.
- Owela Museum: It is dedicated to showcasing traditional Ovambo culture through artefacts such as clothing, jewellery, musical instruments etc.
- Gibeon Meteorites: These meteorites are believed to have fallen over 80 million years ago in Gibeon area which is around 200km away from Windhoek but can be visited through tours.
- African Stars Football Club was founded in 1947 and is one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in Namibia, having won numerous titles including the Namibian Premier League, NFA Cup and Top 8 Cup.
- Black Africa Football Club was established in 1936 and is another popular football club based in Windhoek that has a strong following and has also won several league titles.
- UNAM Football Club is the University of Namibia’s own football team that competes in the Namibian Premier League. They were founded in 1990 and have since become a prominent team within the league.
- Wanderers Cricket Club was founded in 1906, making it one of the oldest cricket clubs not only in Windhoek but also across Namibia. They regularly compete against other local teams as well as international sides visiting the country.
- Trustco United Basketball Team is a professional basketball team that plays its home games at the Dome Indoor Sports Stadium located within Windhoek city limits. The team was established relatively recently but has already made an impact on the national basketball scene.
- Khomasdal Rugby Club was founded over two decades ago and has since become one of Windhoek’s most popular rugby teams with a strong following both locally and nationally.
- Desert Jewels Netball Team represents Namibia on an international level as their national netball team based out of Windhoek competing against other countries’ national netball teams at various events throughout each year including World Cups, Commonwealth Games etc.
- Windhoek Karneval is a carnival inspired by German culture that occurs annually in late February or early March. It offers parades, live music, traditional costumes and food.
- Namibia Tourism Expo is a yearly event held in June that displays the best of Namibia’s tourism industry, including wildlife safaris, adventure activities, cultural experiences and more.
- Windhoek Jazz Festival is held each November and brings together some of the best jazz musicians from around Namibia and beyond for a weekend of live performances.
- Windhoek Agricultural Show takes place every September to celebrate all things agricultural with exhibitions showcasing livestock breeding, crop farming and other related industries.
- Independence Day Celebrations occur on March 21st every year as Namibians commemorate their independence from South Africa with parades, speeches and cultural events throughout the country.
- Herero Day Celebrations happen on August 23rd annually when members of the Herero tribe gather to remember their ancestors who died fighting against German colonial rule in the early 20th century.
- Ongwediva Trade Fair is an annual trade fair that takes place each August near Windhoek at Ongwediva attracting exhibitors from across Southern Africa showcasing everything from clothing to electronics to agricultural equipment.
- Kapana – grilled meat served with a variety of sides such as pap, tomato salsa, and onions. You can find kapana at street vendors all over Windhoek.
- Joe’s Beerhouse – a popular restaurant known for its game meat dishes such as kudu steak and ostrich fillet.
- The Stellenbosch Wine Bar & Bistro – serves South African-inspired cuisine paired with wines from the Stellenbosch region.
- NICE Restaurant – specializes in Namibian cuisine such as oxtail stew, mopane worms, and potjiekos (stew cooked in a cast-iron pot).
- Sardinia Blue Olive Restaurant & Wine Bar – offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes using fresh local ingredients.
- The Social House Kitchen & Taproom – serves craft beers and pub-style food with a Namibian twist.
- Lighthouse Gasthaus & Grill – offers German-inspired cuisine such as schnitzel and bratwursts along with Namibian specialties like biltong (dried meat).
- Zoo Park is a well-known public park situated in the heart of Windhoek. It features a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails for visitors to enjoy.
- Daan Viljoen Game Reserve is located just outside Windhoek and offers hiking trails and game drives where visitors can see wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
- Avis Dam Nature Reserve is a picturesque nature reserve with hiking trails and bird watching opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
- Heroes’ Acre is a national monument dedicated to Namibia’s freedom fighters offering stunning views of the city.
- Independence Stadium serves as a popular sports venue for soccer matches and other events in Windhoek.
- Alte Feste Museum is an interactive museum showcasing Namibia’s history from colonial times to independence.
- National Botanic Garden of Namibia displays indigenous plants from across the country in its botanical garden setting.
- Katutura Township Market situated at the heart of Windhoek’s largest township district offers traditional crafts and food at its outdoor market.
- Gross Barmen Hot Springs Resort located about 100 km north-west of Windhoek on the road towards Swakopmund provides natural hot springs that make it perfect for recreational activities.
- Dune 7 Sandboarding which stands almost 400m high makes it ideal for sandboarding activities that have become very popular among tourists visiting Namibia within just thirty minutes outside Windhoek.
