Windhoek Travel Guide

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, combines modernity with colonial heritage. Located in the heart of the country, it’s the ideal starting point for exploring Namibia, with local markets, historic architecture, and a vibrant urban culture. With our Windhoek Travel Guide, you’ll discover this beautiful place at your own pace.

What to see on the Windhoek Travel Route

Savanna Car Hire Namibia

Savanna Car Hire is a leading car rental company in Namibia, ideal for those looking to explore this stunning country independently. They offer a wide range of options, from comfortable sedans for urban commuting to rugged, fully equipped 4×4 vehicles for safaris and off-road adventures.

For camping enthusiasts, Savanna Car Hire offers fully equipped 4×4 vehicles, perfect for self-guided explorations of the spectacular landscapes of the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, or the Fish River Canyon. Their fleet also includes bush campers, ideal for those seeking an immersive nature experience.

Recognized for their customer service and commitment to quality, Savanna Car Hire offers flexible packages with pick-up options in Windhoek. Travelers praise their reliable service and excellent vehicle condition, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Con Savanna Car Hire, podrás disfrutar de la libertad de recorrer Namibia a tu propio ritmo, ya sea explorando paisajes desérticos, rutas de montaña o los principales parques nacionales. Es la opción perfecta para una aventura inolvidable en este fascinante país.

Hosea Kutako International Airport

Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH, ICAO: FYWH) is Namibia’s main airport, located approximately 45 kilometers east of Windhoek, the country’s capital. Opened in 1965 during the South African administration, it was initially named J.G. Strijdom Airport, after the pro-apartheid South African Prime Minister. Following Namibia’s independence in 1990, it was renamed in honor of Hosea Kutako, a Herero leader and key figure in the fight for indigenous rights.

The airport has a 4,532-meter-long main runway, allowing for the operation of large aircraft. In 2007, it served 672,582 passengers, establishing itself as the country’s main international entry and exit point.

In 2018, annual passenger traffic reached approximately 1.5 million, reflecting significant growth in Namibia’s air connectivity.

The airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including Airlink, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, and Qatar Airways, connecting Namibia with destinations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

In 2024, the airport recorded an average of 90,000 passengers per month and operations to 10 international and domestic destinations, highlighting its importance in the country’s transportation infrastructure.

In terms of infrastructure, the airport has undergone improvements to serve the growing number of passengers and meet international standards. These include the expansion of the terminal and the modernization of security and baggage handling facilities. In addition, the airport has implemented measures to improve the passenger experience, such as the addition of duty-free shops and dining options.

Hosea Kutako International Airport is not only an essential gateway for tourism in Namibia, facilitating access to destinations such as Etosha National Park and the Namib Desert, but also plays a crucial role in national trade and economy, facilitating the export of local products and the import of essential goods.

Windhoek East Police Checkpoint

In Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, it is common to find police checkpoints in various areas, including the eastern part of the city. These checkpoints are implemented by the Windhoek City Police Service to maintain public order, ensure road safety, and enforce municipal laws.

Los Dispositivos Estáticos de Control (D.E.C.) son operativos establecidos por las autoridades policiales en puntos específicos de las vías públicas. Su propósito es la identificación de personas y vehículos, asegurando el cumplimiento de las normativas de tránsito y la prevención de actividades delictivas.

During these checks, officers routinely request identification documents, driver’s licenses, and vehicle registrations. They may also conduct inspections to verify the technical condition of vehicles and the validity of mandatory insurance. It is important for drivers to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and present the required documentation to facilitate the process.

The implementation of these controls contributes significantly to reducing traffic accidents and strengthening citizen safety in Windhoek. Citizens and visitors should be attentive to signals from authorities and respect the signs while traveling around the city.

Parliament Building (Tintenpalast)

The Namibian Parliament Building, known as Tintenpalast (Ink Palace in German), is a historical and political monument located in the country’s capital, Windhoek. Its name, which could be interpreted as an ironic reference to the excessive use of ink in bureaucratic documents during the German colonial era, reflects the administrative role it played since its construction. This building is not only a symbol of Namibia’s colonial past but also a place that has evolved to represent the country’s democracy and sovereignty since its independence.

The Tintenpalast was designed by German architect Gottlieb Redecker, who was also behind other historic buildings in Namibia, such as the Christuskirche. Construction began in 1912, during the period when Namibia was under German rule, then known as German Southwest Africa. The building was completed in 1913 and originally served as the seat of the colonial administration. Its design combines a simple neoclassical style with functional elements, using local materials such as sandstone, giving it a distinctive character within Windhoek’s architectural landscape.

Perched high on a hill, the Tintenpalast dominates Windhoek’s cityscape and is surrounded by Parliament Gardens, a carefully landscaped green space that provides a refreshing contrast to Namibia’s arid surroundings. These gardens, open to the public, are a popular spot for walks and community events, offering a tranquil atmosphere in the heart of the city. At the center of the gardens are several statues and monuments that reflect the country’s rich and complex history, including a statue of a German soldier erected during the colonial era and later replaced with symbols celebrating Namibia’s independence.

Following Namibia’s independence in 1990, the Tintenpalast became the official seat of the country’s Parliament, housing both the National Assembly and the National Council. This change marked a symbolic and functional transformation of the building from a colonial administrative center to a space where the democratic decisions governing Namibia are made. The building remains the epicenter of the country’s political life, witnessing debates, the enactment of laws, and other pivotal events for the nation.

The Tintenpalast is also a reminder of the impact of German colonialism on Namibia, but its contemporary use as a parliamentary seat makes it a symbol of how the country has reclaimed its identity and sovereignty. This historic building encapsulates Namibia’s journey from its colonial past to its present as an independent democracy and remains a point of interest for both locals and visitors seeking to understand the country’s history and politics. Furthermore, its strategic location and simple yet imposing architecture make it one of Windhoek’s most recognizable buildings.

Fuerte Von Francois

The Tintenpalast is also a reminder of the impact of German colonialism on Namibia, but its contemporary use as a parliamentary seat makes it a symbol of how the country has reclaimed its identity and sovereignty. This historic building encapsulates Namibia’s journey from its colonial past to its present as an independent democracy and remains a point of interest for both locals and visitors seeking to understand the country’s history and politics. Furthermore, its strategic location and simple yet imposing architecture make it one of Windhoek’s most recognizable buildings.

His training as a cartographer and geographer led him to join a Belgian expedition to the Congo led by Hermann von Wissmann in 1883, an experience that reinforced his interest in and knowledge of Africa. He was subsequently sent to German Southwest Africa in 1889 with the mission of establishing German colonial control over a vast and strategically important territory. This region was in a key position for maritime and land trade in Africa, rich in natural resources, and home to diverse communities such as the Herero, Nama, Damara, and San.

Curt von François landed at Walvis Bay with 21 soldiers, including his brother Hugo. This British-controlled port was the only significant maritime access to the region’s interior. From his arrival, Curt faced a territory fragmented by conflicts between local communities and the colonial ambitions of other powers. He established his first headquarters at Otjimbingwe, a strategic administrative center, and from there launched military campaigns that resulted in the conquest of key sites such as Tsaobis and Heusis. These operations reflected the aggressive, militarized approach that characterized much of German colonial expansion.

On October 18, 1890, Curt von François arrived at a settlement known as Winterhoek, later Germanized as Windhuk, which would later evolve into today’s Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Recognizing the strategic value of the site, he ordered the construction of Fort Alte Feste, which would serve as a military and administrative base. The choice of this location was not accidental: it was located at a point where the Nama and Herero territories intersected, and had access to springs for drinking water. At that time, the town’s population was modest, with a few hundred inhabitants, including colonial soldiers, traders, and members of the local communities.

In 1892, Curt von François founded the port of Swakopmund, 30 kilometers north of Walvis Bay. This port was conceived as an alternative to British control of the region and became a vital hub for the colony’s imports and exports. Through Swakopmund, the economy of German Southwest Africa was directly connected to Germany, enabling the flow of goods and resources.

Curt von François’s relationship with the local communities was marked by constant tensions, particularly with the Nama leader Hendrik Witbooi, who refused to submit to German rule. Between 1893 and 1894, von François led a series of military campaigns against Witbooi, beginning with an attack on the leader’s headquarters at Hornkranz. However, the clashes resulted in a prolonged resistance that attracted international attention, generating sympathy for Witbooi in Europe and criticism of von François for his belligerent approach and inability to effectively resolve the conflict.

In 1894, political and military pressures forced Curt von François to leave German Southwest Africa. Despite being replaced, his legacy lived on in the structures and settlements he helped found. He returned to Germany, where he retired from the army and lived in Zernsdorf until his death on December 28, 1931. Today, his figure remains controversial, particularly in Namibia, where he is associated with both colonial expansion and the injustices committed during that period. In 2022, the statue of Curt von François in Windhoek was removed in response to a historical review process seeking to highlight the resilience of local communities in the face of colonialism. This act symbolizes the reevaluation of his role and the recognition of the peoples who fought for independence.

Monument to the Heroes

Heroes’ Acre, located south of Windhoek, is a national monument that symbolizes the sacrifice and struggle for Namibia’s freedom and independence. Inaugurated on August 26, 2002, this site commemorates fallen heroes and leaders who have contributed to nation-building. Its creation, driven by the Namibian government, seeks to pass on a legacy of patriotism and unity to future generations, reminding them of the importance of the values of sovereignty and resilience.

This monument stands imposingly less than 10 kilometers from downtown Windhoek, on the B1 national highway leading to Rehoboth. Designed with a symmetrical geometric structure, Heroes’ Acre is a polygon that integrates architectural and symbolic elements intended to highlight respect for the fallen and national pride. At its center is a white marble obelisk symbolizing the strength and resilience of the Namibian people. Beside it, a bronze statue of the Unknown Soldier represents the anonymous combatants who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the country.

The site has a parade ground and a grandstand with a capacity for 5,000 people, making it a ceremonial space for official events and tributes to national heroes. Among its most notable features are the 174 tombs, some of which remain empty, representing both deceased heroes and those who will be honored in the future.

Heroes’ Acre is much more than a monument; it is a place steeped in historical and emotional significance. Its design and location make it a symbol visible from a distance, a constant reminder of the importance of sacrifice for freedom. Furthermore, its presence fosters a sense of national identity and unity, inviting both locals and visitors to reflect on Namibia’s history and the values that shape its present and future.

Windhoek Independence Museum and Sam Nujoma

The Windhoek Independence Museum is one of Namibia’s most significant monuments, dedicated to narrating and preserving the history of the country’s liberation struggle. Opened in 2014, the museum is located in the heart of Windhoek, on land that formerly housed the old colonial building known as Alte Feste. This space was redesigned to house a modern glass and metal structure, which not only represents the country’s progress and future, but also serves as a symbol of overcoming its colonial and apartheid past.

The museum documents the history of Namibia from the arrival of German settlers in the 19th century until independence in 1990, with a particular emphasis on the crucial role of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in the fight for freedom. Through photographs, historical artifacts, documents, and audiovisual displays, visitors can learn about the devastating impact of German colonial occupation, including the Herero-Nama Wars between 1904 and 1908, which resulted in one of the first genocides of the 20th century. It also highlights the resistance against South African rule and apartheid policies, which marked decades of oppression for the Namibian population.

One of the museum’s most prominent features is the statue of Sam Nujoma, erected at the front of the building. Sam Nujoma, considered the “Father of the Nation,” was the founding leader of SWAPO and Namibia’s first president after independence. The statue, which depicts Nujoma holding aloft a copy of the Namibian Constitution, symbolizes the principles of sovereignty and democracy that guided the country’s liberation. This work is a powerful reminder of the key role he played in Namibia’s history, leading the struggle on both the political and military fronts and in the international diplomatic arena.

The museum’s design also has symbolic significance. The structure, with its modern design and angular lines, evokes the strength and vigilance of a nation that deeply values its independence. Since its opening, it has become a center not only for historical learning but also for cultural and national reflection. Visitors can enjoy stunning views from the upper floors, offering a unique perspective of Windhoek and its surroundings, including the contrast between the old colonial buildings and the modern infrastructure that symbolizes the country’s progress.

Among the museum’s most striking exhibits are those dedicated to the years of armed struggle, including detailed depictions of life in refugee camps and the military operations carried out by SWAPO with the support of international allies such as Angola and Cuba. Other key leaders in the struggle for independence are also highlighted, recognizing that this victory was the result of a collective effort involving men and women committed to freedom and justice.

The Independence Museum not only honors Namibia’s past but also educates current and future generations about the importance of preserving freedom and national unity. It is a place where Namibian identity is celebrated in all its forms, from its indigenous roots to its present as a vibrant democracy in Africa. By visiting this museum, one not only explores the history of a country but also reflects on the universal values of resilience, dignity, and self-determination that guided Namibia to independence.

Windhoek Alte Feste

The Alte Feste, which means “Old Fortress” in German, is a historic building located in the center of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Built in 1890, it is the oldest building in the city and has played significant roles throughout the country’s history.

The Alte Feste, which means “Old Fortress” in German, is a historic building located in the center of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Built in 1890, it is the oldest building in the city and has played significant roles throughout the country’s history.

The fort’s original design featured a rectangular structure with four corner towers and an inner courtyard, typical features of military fortifications of the time. Although it never participated in significant military operations, the Alte Feste served as the headquarters of the Schutztruppe, the German colonial military force.

Following the German surrender in 1915 during World War I, the fort was occupied by the South African army and later used as a military headquarters. In 1935, the building was converted into a hostel for students at Windhoek Secondary School. Due to its deterioration, it was declared a National Monument in 1957 and restored in 1963.

In 1962, the Alte Feste was transformed into the National Museum of Namibia, housing collections chronicling the country’s history from the pre-colonial era to independence in 1990. Exhibits included cultural artifacts, historical documents, and photographs illustrating the diversity and richness of Namibia’s heritage.

In 2010, the Reiterdenkmal, an equestrian monument commemorating German soldiers who fell during the colonial wars, was relocated in front of the Alte Feste. However, due to its association with the colonial past, the monument was removed in 2013 and placed in storage.

As of 2023, the Alte Feste remains closed and requires urgent renovations. Plans have been proposed to convert the building into an arts, crafts, and heritage center, preserving its historical and cultural value for future generations.

The Alte Feste is not only a testament to Namibia’s colonial past, but also a symbol of the nation’s resilience and evolution toward independence and the building of its own identity.

Windhoek then and now

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, has undergone a remarkable transformation from its origins to the present day.

Originalmente, la zona donde se ubica Windhoek fue habitada por los pueblos nama y herero, quienes la llamaban ?Ai?Gams y Otjomuise, respectivamente, nombres que hacen referencia a las fuentes termales presentes en el área.

In 1840, Jonker Afrikaner, leader of the Orlam, established a settlement in the region, building a stone church that also served as a school. However, conflicts between the Nama and Herero tribes led to the abandonment of this settlement.

The modern founding of Windhoek is attributed to Major Curt von François of the Imperial German Army, who established a garrison in the area in 1890 and laid the foundation stone of the fort known as Alte Feste. This act marked the beginning of urban development under German colonization, with the construction of infrastructure and buildings that reflected the European architecture of the time.

During German colonization, Windhoek established itself as the administrative center of the colony of German South West Africa. The city experienced moderate growth, with the construction of churches, schools, and government buildings. After World War I, South Africa occupied the territory and administered the city under a League of Nations mandate. During this period, Windhoek continued its urban development, albeit with marked racial segregation and limited infrastructure for the indigenous population.

With Namibia’s independence in 1990, Windhoek became the capital of the new nation. Since then, the city has experienced accelerated growth, both in population and infrastructure. New residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and modern government buildings have been developed. Contemporary architecture coexists with historic structures, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and economic progress.

Today, Windhoek is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, home to more than 400,000 inhabitants. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Namibia, with a growing economy driven by sectors such as tourism, mining, and services. The city offers a blend of African traditions and colonial heritage, evident in its cuisine, festivals, and daily life.

Despite challenges such as socioeconomic inequality and the need for infrastructure improvements, Windhoek continues to evolve, seeking to balance its rich history with the demands of a modern city in the 21st century.

Windhoek Christuskirche (Christ Church)

Christ Church, known as Christuskirche in German, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. This Lutheran church, built in 1910, stands as a tangible symbol of reconciliation and peace following the conflicts that marked the German colonial period in the region. Construction began in 1896, but it wasn’t until October 16, 1910, that it was officially inaugurated, coinciding with the end of the wars between German troops and indigenous communities, such as the Khoikhoi, Herero, and Ovambo. During this ceremony, the church was dedicated as the “Church of Peace,” a name that reflects its original purpose of marking a new beginning after years of violent confrontation.

The building, strategically located in Windhoek’s historic center, combines several architectural styles, making it unique. The church was designed by German architect Gottlieb Redecker, who integrated Neo-Romanesque, Modernist, and Neo-Gothic elements into its design. The choice of styles was not accidental; he intended to connect European traditions with the African context in which it was located. The main façade is built with local sandstone, which gives it a warm and distinctive tone, while the stained-glass decorations were imported from Germany, as was the clock crowning its tower, manufactured by the prestigious German company J.F. Weule.

One of the church’s most significant features is its elevated location, which gives it a prominent presence in Windhoek’s cityscape. From its tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, framed by a setting that combines modernity with vestiges of the colonial past. This often photographed and admired site is a reminder of the German influence on Namibian architecture and its interaction with African cultural identity.

The historical significance of Christ Church lies not only in its architecture and location, but also in its role as a witness to sociopolitical changes in Namibia. During the colonial period, it served as a place of worship for German settlers, and following Namibia’s independence in 1990, it has continued to function as a spiritual and cultural space for the local Lutheran community. In 2010, the church celebrated its centenary, attracting national and international attention. This event highlighted not only its religious significance but also its importance as a cultural heritage site and a symbol of Namibian society’s resilience and adaptation to its complex history.

Actualmente, la Iglesia de Cristo es un destino turístico popular y un punto de referencia para quienes visitan Windhoek. Su combinación de historia, arquitectura y significado cultural la convierte en un lugar imprescindible para quienes buscan comprender la intersección entre la historia colonial y la identidad moderna de Namibia. La iglesia sigue siendo un espacio de culto activo, donde las ceremonias religiosas y eventos comunitarios se celebran con regularidad, perpetuando su función como un lugar de encuentro espiritual y social en el corazón de la ciudad.

Windhoek

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, is a city that combines a rich history with a vibrant modern life. Situated 1,650 meters above sea level in a dry, temperate climate, its strategic location has been crucial since ancient times. The first inhabitants of this area were the Nama and Herero communities, who named the place after the region’s natural hot springs: Ai Gams, in the Nama language, meaning “hot waters,” and Otjomuise, in Herero, meaning “place of steam.” These hot springs were essential to early human settlements, providing water and a suitable environment for life.

In the 19th century, Windhoek began to develop as a strategic hub in southern Africa. It was home to Jan Jonker Afrikaner, a Nama leader who established his base near one of the hot springs. During this time, Windhoek became a site of encounters and conflicts between Nama warriors and Herero communities, marking its history with tensions between these local cultures. The arrival of European missionaries in the 1840s brought new dynamics, with the construction of a stone church that served as a religious, educational, and social center. However, wars between the Nama and Herero eventually left the region in ruins, and by 1873, Windhoek was little more than a cluster of abandoned springs surrounded by overgrown fruit trees.

Windhoek’s transformation began with German colonization in 1884, when the German Empire established a protectorate in South West Africa. In 1890, Commander Curt von François officially founded the city by laying the foundation stone of the Alte Feste, or “Old Fortress,” which served as a military base. Windhoek became the administrative capital of the colony and a key point for colonial expansion. During this period, the city underwent slow development, with the construction of official buildings and the allocation of land to European settlers for agriculture. The cityscape began to take shape with the construction of the Christuskirche and Kaiserstrasse, today known as Independence Avenue, which became the city’s nerve center.

World War I marked a drastic change in Windhoek’s history. In 1915, the city was captured by South African forces under British command, ending German colonial rule. For the following years, a military government administered the region, and Windhoek’s development stagnated. However, after World War II, new infrastructure projects began to emerge, such as the construction of dams and the paving of roads. The city began to modernize, attracting both European settlers and workers from other parts of Africa.

Namibia’s independence in 1990 marked a renaissance for Windhoek. It became the political center of the new republic, home to the first democratic government led by President Sam Nujoma. Since then, the city has experienced rapid economic and demographic growth, reflected in the expansion of neighborhoods, the construction of modern government and commercial buildings, and an increase in the diversity of its population. Although white and mixed-race communities represented the majority of the urban population during the colonial era, today Windhoek is a cultural melting pot where local ethnic groups, such as the Ovambo, Herero, and Nama, predominate.

Windhoek is known not only for its historical heritage but also for its vibrant cultural life and its role as Namibia’s economic center. The city is famous for its sheepskin production and its importance as a regional trading hub. Furthermore, its rich colonial architecture, combined with modern developments, creates a unique cityscape that reflects its complex history. The Alte Feste, the Christuskirche, and Independence Avenue are visible reminders of its past, while emerging neighborhoods and business centers showcase its vision for the future.

Windhoek’s climate, with warm days and cool nights, makes it a pleasant place to visit year-round. However, the city is not without its challenges; the periodic droughts that affect the region underscore the importance of sustainable water management. This balance between development and sustainability is key to the future of Windhoek, a city that remains the heart of Namibia, both historically and contemporary.

Hilton Windhoek

The Hilton Windhoek is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Namibia’s capital, offering a combination of contemporary luxury and convenience. Located on Rev. Michael Scott Street, the hotel is within walking distance of iconic attractions such as Christ Church and the National Museum of Namibia, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.

The hotel has 150 elegantly decorated rooms and suites, many of which offer panoramic views of the city. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi in common areas and guest rooms, ensuring connectivity throughout their stay.

Highlights at the Hilton Windhoek include a rooftop outdoor pool offering stunning views of Windhoek and a spa offering a variety of relaxing treatments. For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel has a well-equipped gym. Dining options include five restaurants and bars, offering a variety of culinary options to suit different palates.

The Hilton Windhoek is also an ideal venue for events and meetings, with spaces that can accommodate up to 400 people. Its central location provides easy access to various businesses and historical sites, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to explore the city.

With its modern design and impeccable service, the Hilton Windhoek offers a luxurious experience in the city center, combining Namibian hospitality with international quality standards.

Windhoek Travel Guide