Windhoek

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Geography and History

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia and is located in a basin between the Khomas Highland, Auas and Eros Mountains. Windhoek sits 1,680 m above sea level, 650 km North of the Orange River and 360 km from the Atlantic seaboard.

Windhoek has a unique charm due to its harmonious blend of African and European cultures and the friendliness of its people. It serves as a strategic point from which to conduct business, or to embark on your Namibian adventure.

Attractions

Windhoek has many historical buildings dating back to German colonial rule. The city centre is characterised by a proliferation of German style buildings, a lasting reminder of Namibia's early colonial history. Early buildings such as the Alte Feste (old fort), Christuskirche and Tintenpalast (the parliament buildings) are of particular historical interest.

Visitors can enjoy Windhoek’s city tours to places of interest, such as the Museum, the National Art Gallery, the "Tintenpalast", the National Botanical Research Institute (and its gardens) and the Zoo Gardens. The National Botanical Garden of Namibia (NBGN) in the heart of Windhoek is undoubtedly one of the capital’s gems. Situated on the slopes of a hill that forms a natural divide between the city center and the suburb of Klein Windhoek, it was proclaimed a conservation area in 1969. In 1990 the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) moved to the site above the garden

Pavement displays of African drums and woodcarvings from the north contrast with elegant shops offering sophisticated Swakara garments and Namibian gemstones set in individually designed jewelery. While some shops display clothing, silver and glassware imported from Europe, others stock casual and colourful garments from West -Africa.

Surrounding Windhoek you will see Africa's savannah all around! There are plenty of Wildlife reserves in the area.