NA
Windhoek
Namibia’s highland capital, the starting point for most road trips
Namibia’s highland capital, the starting point for most road trips
Opened in 2014, this museum tells the story of Namibia’s colonial history and liberation struggle. Its top-floor café has city views.
Photo: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0
Built in 1913 for the German colonial administration, the “Ink Palace” now houses Namibia’s parliament, set in public gardens.
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0
Created under apartheid-era segregation, Katutura is now a lively district. Guided tours visit markets such as the Single Quarters, where kapana (grilled beef) is cooked to order.
Visit with a local guide.
Photo: Sonse, CC BY 2.0
About 20km west, this small reserve in the Khomas Hochland has hiking trails and antelope, zebra and giraffe.
Photo: Hp.Baumeler, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try game meats such as oryx and kudu, kapana in Katutura, German-style bakeries and Namibian lagers.
Popular restaurants serve large grills; book ahead at weekends.
Hosea Kutako International Airport is about 45km east, roughly 40–45 minutes by shuttle or taxi. Visas on arrival are issued at the airport, but an eVisa applied for in advance can save time.
Most visitors rent a car, often a 4×4, for travel beyond the city.
Namibia uses the Namibian dollar (NAD), pegged 1:1 to the South African rand, which is also accepted.
Prices are approximate; check current rates.
City and surroundings.
See the Christuskirche, Independence Memorial Museum and Tintenpalast, then take a Katutura tour.
Hike in Daan Viljoen before setting off on your road trip.
Check visa rules; many nationalities need one since 2025.
Gravel roads demand care; avoid driving at night.
Keep valuables out of sight and use taxis at night.
Winter nights can be close to freezing.
Quick answers for planning time in Windhoek.
Many nationalities do, including most Europeans and North Americans; it is available as an eVisa or on arrival.
About 45km, around 40–45 minutes by road.
Yes, it is accepted at par with the Namibian dollar.
Namibia’s parliament building, built in 1913.
May to October, the dry season.
Planning a wider trip? Our Namibia travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.