How to Explore Windhoek: Top Activities in the Namibian Capital

Often overlooked by holidaymakers touring Namibia, Windhoek isn't just Namibia's link to the globe but also an ideal spot to grasp what sets this nation apart from the rest of southern Africa. Windhoek might not be as contemporary as Cape Town, but it’s a quaint town with wonderful people who always greet you with a smile. 

Explore the City Centre

Having a wander around the city centre is one of the best things to do in Windhoek, and you’ll soon see why.

You should kick off your Windhoek tour at the commanding Christuskirche found at the heart of the city – this will be a piece of cake if you’re staying at Avani Windhoek Hotel and Casino. This 42-metre tall church tower is accessible during its operational hours and provides a splendid vista of the nearby town. The ascent is truly rewarding!

Don’t overlook the National Museum of Namibia, situated at the historic Alte Feste fortress. Here, you can delve into the colonial era of the early 20th century, the span when Namibia was under South African rule, and the transformations impacting modern-day Namibia.

A short stroll from the National Museum of Namibia will bring you to Windhoek's pedestrian area, where the renowned Gibeon Meteorite Shower can be found. These celestial fragments are certainly worth a look!

Feeling a tad hungry? There’s an abundance of cafes and eateries offering scrumptious treats from southern Africa. Slowtown cafe is always a top pick.

Visit Katutura Township & the Kapana Market

Historically a byproduct of racial segregation during apartheid, Katutura stands as a poignant reminder of Namibia’s tumultuous past – and, to some extent, its present. Although Windhoek has largely moved past this era, Katutura has evolved into the city’s beating heart – a melting pot of cultures from all over Africa and home to roughly 70,000 inhabitants.

Katutura offers insights into contemporary Namibian social challenges and presents a contrasting facet of Windhoek. True, the area can pose risks for tourists, particularly after dark. However, locals are striving to overturn this perception, eager to highlight Katutura's dynamic and spirited side.

Arts and Crafts

Pick up crafts at the Namibia Craft Centre or the craft market on Independence Avenue. Namibia boasts some of the most impressive crafts you’ll see in Africa. Ranging from quaint hazelnut keychains to the daily accessories of the Himba and Herero tribes, you can pick up truly distinctive mementoes here.

While you might spot some crafts in shopping centres, hotels, and even the airport, the standout spots for buying these unique items are undoubtedly the Namibia Craft Centre adjacent to the Brewers Market and the craft market on Independence Avenue.

Both are conveniently situated just a stone's throw from one another, making it easy to explore both in a single trip. At the Namibia Craft Centre, you'll discover more structured shops with slightly steeper prices, whereas over on Independence Avenue, you're more likely to encounter Himba traders setting up impromptu stalls on the pavement, showcasing their handcrafted items.

Visit Okapuka Ranch

Just a stone's throw from Windhoek, you'll find the picturesque Okapuka Ranch. If you're in Namibia, a stop here is practically obligatory! You don't need to travel as far afield as Etosha or Damaraland to spot the likes of zebras, wildebeest, crocodiles, and if fortune favours you, even rhinos.

Okapuka is heralded as one of the top activities in the country. This lodge and ranch is ideal whether you're looking to bed down for the night or merely hoping to get an intimate glimpse of wild animals. With several game drives scheduled at various times daily, and priced at a reasonable 25 EUR, it's a treat you shouldn’t miss.

Some of the things to do here include:

Game drive

Horse riding

Lion feeding

Hiking

Mountain biking

Feeding cheetahs