Car Hire Windhoek

Windhoek Mini Guide

Where is Windhoek?
Windhoek is the capital and largest city in the Republic of Namibia. It’s far inland and set high up on a plateau at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level. It was originally called German South West Africa and then, when it became part of the British Empire, simply South West Africa. It’s the seat of the government and the centre for safaris searching for the thrill of big cat watching in the savannah around the city.

How do I get to Windhoek?
The best way is to arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport. The airport is nearly 25 miles out of town and you’ll need to get a bus or shared taxi, called ‘combos’, from the airport unless you are going to hire a car. This is a good option as it will allow you to see the city at your own speed and head out into the countryside to see the wildlife without the expense of a guided trip. Another alternative is to take the scenic but very long coach ride from Cape Town (approximately 24 hours!)

What Shouldn’t I Miss Whilst I’m There?
There’s the history of the city from its colonial days including the Lutheran Church from the time missionaries operated here. There are the street names dedicated to the ‘friends’ of Namibia including Robert Mugabe and Fidel Castro. You can go on a ‘big cat safari from the city to see cheetah and leopard in their natural surroundings. You can also visit ‘Cats Unlimited, a breeding and preservation unit near the city and finally you should also take the chance to taste some ‘bush meat’ from the likes of antelope and kudu which is on sale in many of the butchers here and in the restaurants around the city.

Windhoek bears much evidence of its colonial days even though it’s now a thriving commercial and political city. If you’ve hired a car then a drive around the city centre will reward you with views of the old buildings built by the Germans, the Dutch and the British.

An interesting starting point is the parliament buildings from where originally the Germans governed the country and where now the Namibian government works along with the modern building next door. It’s possible to visit the parliament buildings and see many documents detailing the changing powers in the country.