WINDHOEK - FAQ`S
The easiest way to get to Windhoek is to fly to Hosea Kutako International Airport, about 25 miles outside of the city. Regular international flights connect Windhoek with Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa Frankfurt in Germany, Maun in Botswana, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Luanda in Angola. Chartered and scheduled domestic flights are routed via the Eros Airport, 3 miles from the city, linking Windhoek with destinations like Swakopmund, Etosha, Rundu and Katima Mulilo.
By driving, the B1 runs north-south and the B2 east-west via Windhoek, providing links to destinations across the country; the best-known being - Etosha to the north, Swakopmund to the west and the Namib Desert and Fresh River Canyon to the south, with Botswana accessible to the east. Renting a car is a popular option with travelers.
There is also train, bus, and minibus taxi services to and from Windhoek, with the most popular route running between the capital and Swakopmund. Some of the longest drives for those looking for an endurance challenge include minibus taxi rides from Cape Town or coach bus trips from Johannesburg or Livingstone in Zambia.
Many small taxis drive around the city. They work almost like buses, and you can find yourself in a shared taxi. Download the app LEFA in order to more easily call a taxi. It works just like Uber.
Public buses do exist in Windhoek, but it is probably easier to take a taxi is you are visiting for a short time. Taxis are primarily run between the townships and the main industrial/commercial areas of the city. Routes are not fixed like a bus route or the combined routes in South Africa. This gives some added flexibility, but also means that fares between given destinations may not always be the same. You can get in or get wherever you want along the "route".
If you don't feel comfortable taking shared taxis, there are on-demand taxis which allow you to hire the entire car to yourself. Most of these taxis have to be pre-booked via telephone. They'll come to get you wherever you are, many of these taxis can be found behind the Tourist Information Office at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Fidel Castro Street and on the norther-side of Wernhill Park shopping mall. They also tend to gather at popular restaurants and nightpots. Make sure you agree on the price before taking them; most will ask for at least N$50 to go anywhere around Windhoek. These taxis also can take you out of Windhoek, and especially to the airport; it's just a question of how much they are going to charge.
Renting a car is the easiest way to get around, and if you are planning a Namibian road trip it may be your best option.
Most hotels are centrally located close to the city center, so you can easily walk to most shops, restaurants, and sights (depending on where your hotel is).
Note: Walking after dark is not recommended.
Winkhoek is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any city, it's advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. Be cautious at night and avoid walking in poorly lit and unfamiliar areas. As always, watch your belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings to avoid potential risks.
What is the currency of Namibia?
The currency in Namibia which is the Namibian Dollar is equivalent to the South African rand.
If you’re traveling to Namibia after spending time in South Africa, this South African currency, is accepted all over Namibia (although Namibian currency is not accepted in South Africa). You can draw currency in Namibia from ATMs using your international bank cards.
Many hotels, lodges and restaurants in towns will accept credit card payments, but you do need to carry enough currency in Namibia with you to cover yourself for places that don’t accept cards.
Euro, British Pounds, US Dollars and other major currencies may be traded locally or in advance of departure. In addition, exchange facilities are available in the various offices of change and banks in the major cities of ATMs. It is best to request bank notes in smaller denominations, as it can often be difficult to get a change from large notes, and smaller notes are handy for smaller transactions.
a 10% tip is acceptable for good service - or more if you consider the service to have been exceptional.
What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?The dry, winter months from May to October are generally regarded as the best time to visit Namibia for game viewing. It is also a great time to explore the Fish River Canyon in the far south. The climate is generally dry and pleasant. Between December and March, some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localized, afternoon thunderstorms.
What is the language in Namibia?English is the official language in Namibia.
What is the food like?
There is a wide variety of food choices in Namibia with a large amount of international variety, mostly from German and English cooking due to its colonial past.
The gastronomy of Namibia is mostly based on meat with numerous dishes with ostrich, antelope, zebra, giraffe, oryx, kudu, lamb, and beer. The meat is generally grilled and then marinated with rich and tasty sauces. You will also find famous British Fish & Chips and German sausages throughout the country.
Popular areas in Windhoek where you can find great places to eat include Independence Avenue. this street is in the bustling city center, lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer a variety of cuisines. You can find everything from local Namibian dishes to Italian, Asian, and fusion cuisine. here.
Garden Hill is a suburb of Klein Windhoek that is known for its upscale restaurants. This area offers a more fine dining experience that is focused on international cuisine.
Check out the Old Breweries Complex in the heart of Windhoek. This area offers trendy dining and entertainment featuring several restaurants, bars, and cafes.
The tap water in Windhoek is considered safe to drink. It is known for having one of the best water treatment systems in Africa. However, some people may prefer to drink bottled water for peace of mind, especially if you are sensitive to changes in water quality or if you're traveling to remote areas where water sources may be less reliable.
What is the nightlife like in Windhoek?
While the nightlife scene may not be as vibrant as nightlife scenes in larger cities, however, it does offer a variety of options with places to enjoy entertainment, music, and socializing.
Windhoek has several bars and pubs where you can enjoy drinks with friends or meet new people in a relaxed environment. There are also several nightclubs where you can dance the night away to a mix of local and international music. Some of the popular nightclubs in Windhoek include Club London, Warehouse Theatre, and Chez Ntemba.
If you enjoy live music, you'll find a few venues in Windhoek that host live performances by local and international artists. These venues often feature a range of music genres, including jazz, rock, reggae, and Afro-pop. The Warehouse Theater and the Boiler Room are known for their live music events.
Call 211111 (in Windhoek) or 10111 (everywhere else) and ask for an ambulance. Contact your insurance company promptly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.