Windhoek, the capital and largest city of Namibia, is situated on the northern side of Khomas Highland plateau area, at about 5,600 feet above sea level. Windhoek is home to nearly all of the country's national enterprise, governmental body, educational and cultural institution, making it the centre of social, economic, and political sectors. Currently, the city's boundaries are being expanded to cover around 5,133.4 square kilometres, a move by the Windhoek's City Council that can make Windhoek the third-largest city in the world by area, following Tianjin in China and Istanbul in Turkey. The city is divided into different suburbs, including Havanna, Olympia, and Windhoek North, among other suburbs. According to one study, Windhoek provides more than half of Namibia's non-agricultural employment, which includes utilities, transport and communication, finance and business services. The country’s only theatre, ministry head offices, and other major media and financial organizations are also headquartered here.
What to see & do
The City of Windhoek preserves an impressive ambience that attracts many visitors each year. It is a city that offers opportunity for outdoor activities and sightseeing. A visit in this city will leave you with a lasting impression of a well-organized place that has preserved its rich heritage throughout the years. It gives off a European vibe with its bustling shops and pedestrian precinct. The enjoyment does not end there, because within the city are many other attractions waiting to be discovered.
NamibRand Nature Reserve - a private nature reserve that displays diverse desert landscapes set against a backdrop of beautiful sunsets and stunning views, this place is a top attraction in Windhoek recommended by people who have experienced its beauty first-hand. The reserve stretches to a 202,000-hectare area and shares a 100-km border with Namib-Naukluft National Park. It is the perfect place to make your African desert vacation dream come true.
Karibu Safari - whether you're into wildlife exploration or you just want to experience a unique kind of adventure, this attraction is the perfect place for you to visit. Here, you will get a chance to experience life in Safari as it happens. You can hang out with your friends at the camp, go on a boat ride adventure, observe the wildlife and visit unique spots in the area like water holes and rivers. A guided tour is the best way to go when you visit this attraction as it lets you have the freedom to do various activities while being assisted by capable guides who have extensive knowledge of the place.
Equitrails Namibia - horseback riding is one great way to experience the stunning sceneries of Windhoek. Equitrails Namibia crews allow you to do just that, while also being present to provide riding lessons for both adults and children, and assisting you with picnic-day rides. One- to five-night excursions are also available to let you get the most out of your visit. Based at Elisenheim Guest Farm at the foot of the Eros Mountains, just 15 kilometres from Windhoek, this place has a lot to offer to anyone seeking unique adventures.
How to get around within Windhoek
Getting around Windhoek is made easy and convenient with car renting options and public transportation services such as shared taxis and on-demand taxis. You can also go by foot in exploring the city as most shops, tourist spots, and other sites are within walking distance from one another.
How to get there
Windhoek is served by the Hosea Kutako International Airport, which is approximately 40 kilometres from the town proper. From here, you can take a taxi to the city by paying $250N per person. A train ride to Windhoek and other destinations in Namibia is also available for passengers. The routes include Windhoek-Otjiwarongo-Tsumeb, Windhoek-Gobabis, and Windhoek-Swakopmund to Walvis Bay. A bus service to and from Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa and Livingstone in Zambia is also available.
