Among the immense experiences of Namibia's natural world, Windhoek offers an enclave of civilised dining, shopping, and touring. Windhoek, at 1,700 metres, is a pleasant reprieve from the hot lowlands and rarely reaches the high temps of the surrounding desert. Many visitors are pleasantly pleased by the relative order and tranquilly of this small town, which is where they begin or end their journey. Post St. Mall, a pedestrianised area lined with market booths selling African art and clothes, handcrafted jewellery, and animal sculptures in wood, is an excellent place to go if you want to buy some local trinkets. Independence Street, Windhoek's main thoroughfare, is located at the mall's entrance. You can see colonial buildings and a beautiful clock tower here. With self-guided walking pathways through calm quiver tree forests and a section on desert flora, the National Botanical Gardens are a fun way to spend an afternoon. Windhoek also boasts a few good museums for cultural enthusiasts. The National Museum offers an exciting collection of artefacts and photographs that provide information about Namibia's indigenous people. For individuals interested in learning about current African art, the National Art Gallery of Namibia exhibits some of the best contemporary works by Namibian artists. Capital: Windhoek International Airport: Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) Population: 461,000 Currency: Namibian dollar Time: (GMT+2) Driving side- Left Official Language- English Religion- Christianity
The Alte Feste, or Old Fortress, built-in 1890 and currently houses the National Museum, is one of Windhoek's many historic sites. Near the bustling Parliament Gardens and Titenpalast sits the Christ Church, a Lutheran church built in 1910 with stunning Gothic and Art Nouveau architectural elements. The Heinitzburg, Sanderburg, and Schwerinsburg castles and the beautiful St. Mary's Cathedral are all located in Windhoek. The National Library of Namibia and the Reiterdenkmal, popularly known as the Equestrian Monument, are located in the city. Aside from ancient structures, Windhoek is home to Zoo Park, a public park with stunning planted gardens, ponds, a children's play area, and Namibia's first open-air theatre. There are also several local markets worth visiting; however, Okahanja, just outside Windhoek, is best for bargains. A Cats Unlimited expedition is both informative and entertaining, and it contributes to the protection of numerous large cats. Windhoek is a great place to visit at the start or finish of your Namibian adventure, with various accommodations and dining options to fit any holiday style.
