The city spreads out rather extensively with the main drag, Independence Avenue, being home to a variety of shops, cafés, restaurants, hotels, and street souvenirs. Bewilder at the mix between the colonial German architecture and the African feel. Weekdays are busy, yet the normal hustle and bustle of the Western world seems to be absent in the normal Windhoek vibe. From mid-day Saturday to all day Sunday the city streets are empty giving it a ghost town feel. By Monday morning the city will once again fill as people begin a new work week, giving life once again to the capital city.

Independence Avenue is a fantastic street to wander as it will take you past the most popular of shopping areas including Wernhil Park, Town Square, and Post Street Mall. When exploring these areas, the diversity in Namibia’s rich cultural heritage is as clear as day. When you begin to talk with locals you will hear a variety of tongues, all of which share a similar English accent. Members of the wealthier class drive the cars, enjoy a good wine and dine, and dress in style while on the prowl for more purchases. Those on the lower end of the wealth scale will roam the streets looking for tourists to talk to, sell a crafty product, or kindly ask for ‘coins’ (spare change). The disparity between wealth and living conditions is more apparent in Windhoek than in many other areas in southern Africa. The wealthy in Windhoek are predominately white, while the majority of the poor are black. However, a middle class is emerging and is steadily growing as more Namibians are receiving the education, skills, and trades needed to become members of the working class.

Although Windhoek has various attractions, many visitors only spend two or three days here, usually when arriving or departing the country. Windhoek Central, or the city’s heart, can easily be explored in one day, hitting all the major attractions. The second day will allow time to venture out on a Katutura township tour or to simply relax with fine wines and dines. It is worth noting that many shops around Christmas and New Years will be closed, as owners take their holiday during this time. Plan accordingly, and realize that Windhoek is the best place in all of Namibia to gear up for your trip. Whether you need camping equipment, car hire, electrical adaptors, you name it, Windhoek should have it and it should be purchased here. You may not find what you need in other places in Namibia.

Accommodation (a few of Wild Safari Africa’s favorite)

Olive Grove

Villa Verde

Hilltop House

Hotel Pension Palmquell