This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Windhoek.
Windhoek is the place where the wilds of Namibia are contained. Regardless of your travel plans, you will inevitably find yourself spending some time in Windhoek. This is not something to avoid, as Windhoek offers one of Southern Africa’s more curious capital cities. As a former German colony, Windhoek is somewhere to experience the synthesis of German and African influences. Further, Windhoek hostels are of a high standard and will gladly help organize your onward journeys in Namibia. Windhoek dorms are available year-round, however we would recommend advance bookings during the peak season (June through July) and South African holidays.
For those wishing to explore Windhoek’s unique character, the place to begin is the city centre. Lovers of German architecture will thrive in Windhoek’s "unofficial" landmark -- the Christuskirche the junction of Fidel Castro and Robert Mugabe streets. Despite evoking an image of a gingerbread house, this Lutheran church commands over the city centre. Other notable buildings include the Tintenpalast and Turnhalle, both of which remind visitors of Namibia’s idiosyncratic history. As most Windhoek hostels are located within close walking distance to the city centre, your Windhoek hostel will be able to point you in the right direction!
Definitely try to fit in a visit to Katutura Township. As the place where the Windhoek council (under the South African apartheid regime) settled all Africans in Windhoek, this site affords visitors a rare chance to experience another element of Namibian history. Here, visitors can engage with some of Namibia’s less fortunate citizens, support their local markets, and appreciate that Windhoek extends well beyond the stylish shopping centres. Most Windhoek hostels will be able to easily link you up with a company offering transport and walks through Katutura.
For those still unsure whether to visit Etosha National Park or camp under the dunes in Sossusvlei, your Windhoek hostel will provide some invaluable information. Further, almost all Windhoek hostels are linked with an associate travel company, offering you some of the most competitive multi-day tour rates.
Written by local enthusiast for Windhoek hostels
@dhersz
