Walk through the city of Windhoek

Nestled in the heart of Namibia, Windhoek is a vibrant and culturally diverse city that offers a unique blend of fascinating history, captivating landscapes and warm hospitality. As the capital and largest city of Namibia, Windhoek serves as the gateway to this extraordinary country. Whether you're exploring the city's rich history, immersing yourself in its diverse cultures, or venturing into the surrounding natural wonders, Windhoek has something for every traveller.

CHRISTUS KIRCHE

To delve into Windhoek's past, begin your journey at the Christus Kirche. The Evangelical Lutheran Church is one of the city’s most striking landmarks, built from local sandstone and completed in 1910. Its blend of the neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles is a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. The stained glass windows were donated by Kaiser Wilhelm II.

INDEPENDENCE MEMORIAL MUSEUM | TINTENPALAST | SUPREME COURT

Adjacent to this iconic Windhoek landmark is the golden Independence Memorial Museum. After visiting this museum, dedicated to the Namibian liberation struggle, head to the nearby historic buildings like the Tintenpalast (Ink Palace), which houses Namibia's parliament. This is Namibia’s original Government Building, completed in 1914 in time for the first session of the Landesrat. Since then it has housed a series of successive administrations and governments. After independence it was renovated to accommodate the Namibian Parliament. The statues in front of the National Assembly honour three Namibian nationalists who campaigned for the country’s independence: Chief Hosea Kutako (1870 - 1970), Kaptein Hendrik Witbooi (1906 - 1978) and Reverend Theophilus Hamutumbangela (1917 - 1990). Nearby, the Supreme Court is an interesting architectural sight.

NAMIBIA CRAFT CENTRE | PENDUKA CRAFT VILLAGE

Windhoek's cultural diversity is celebrated through its vibrant festivals and markets. The Namibia Craft Centre is a haven for art enthusiasts or those looking for something authentically Namibian to take home. It offers a vast collection of traditional arts and crafts created by local artisans. Here, you can witness the intricate craftsmanship of handmade jewelry, textiles and woodcarvings, while directly supporting the talented individuals who create them. There are plans to move the centre to the Alte Feste during 2025. For a taste of Namibian cuisine and the lively atmosphere of an informal market, visit the Penduka Craft Village, where you can sample delicious local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs.

WINDHOEK RAILWAY STATION

The historical Windhoek Railway Station, built in 1912/1913, is another worthwhile sight to visit. In front of the building is a narrow-gauge locomotive, and on the first floor is the TransNamib Railway Museum.

ART & THEATRES

The National Art Gallery of Namibia is well worth a visit to see the Permanent Collection established and owned by the Arts Association Heritage Trust, which features historical and contemporary Namibian art. Next door is the National Theatre of Namibia, and opposite the Namibia Scientific Society, where a wide selection of authoritative publications on the country published by the Society can be purchased.

STATE HOUSE

Up the hill on Robert Mugabe Avenue (on the right) is the former State House, a renovated version of the original house occupied by the former South West African administrators.

KATUTURA

Explore the lively suburb of Katutura on a Windhoek City Tour for an authentic glimpse of everyday life in Namibia. Join a guided tour to learn about Katutura’s history, including its role in the struggle for independence, and interact with the friendly residents.

JOE'S BEERHOUSE

No visit to Windhoek is complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife or array of restaurants. Head to Joe's Beerhouse, a legendary establishment known for its warm ambiance, delicious local cuisine and an extensive selection of Namibian beers.

Find more Namibia travel inspiration at www.thisisnamibia.com

Follow @thisis_namibia on Facebook and instagram for extraordinary Namibia travel stories.