Overview
Take a trip to Windhoek on your Namibia Vacation
Located in the geographic centre of Namibia is its capital and largest city, Windhoek. Windhoek is a social, economic and cultural centre, serving as the gateway to Namibia and is often the starting point for Namibia safaris that travel through the country.
The town was originally established at the site of a permanent spring known to the indigenous populations and began to develop at a rapid pace after Jonker Afrikaner, captain of the Orlam Afrikaners settled in the area in 1840. Despite this initial success, the years that followed witnessed wars and hostilities resulting in the town being neglected. Windhoek was therefore founded a second time in 1890 by Major Curt von François of the Imperial German Army.
Today, this capital city is famous for its hot springs (the source of its name), as well as for the German architecture and influence felt throughout. Windhoek is considered unique amongst other African cities as it combines a mixture of African life with the infrastructure of a European city. Churches and historical monuments coexist with craft markets and shebeens and Windhoek is home to Namibia’s brewing industry. As more emphasis is being placed on Namibian culture and history like with the construction of the Independence Museum, Windhoek is becoming more than just a safari starting point on a Namibia tour. and is coming into its own as a tourist destination.
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The country has such beautiful landscapes, especially the Namib desert. It is the oldest desert in world with the highest sand dunes. Visiting it is a truly unforgettable experience.
For a unique experience join a Himba cultural tour: Explore their customs, daily life, and traditional dress, and sample authentic Himba foods.
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