WINDHOEK - GETTING AROUND

By Taxi

The easiest way to get around is by taxi. Taxis in Windhoek are shared, meaning that when you get in, the driver may also stop and let others in if they’re going in the same direction. Taxis primarily run between the townships and the main commercial areas of the city. Routes are not fixed like a bus route. This gives some added flexibility, but also means that fares between destinations will vary.

To catch a taxi you can easily flag it down. The fare for destinations that are on the "route" or close to the route is about N$12, destinations further out of the way are charged around N$24. Non-standard destinations cost a bit more. Tell the driver where you want to go before you get in. If the destination is too far off their route, they will let you know and you'll have to wait for another taxi. This can be common during rush hour. It will take some time to figure out the informal routes that the taxis have.

Most taxis can be found going up and down Independence Avenue south of the intersection with Fidel Castro Street. The easiest place to catch them is in front of the Gustav Voights Centre/Kalahari Sands Hotel.

If you don't want to share your taxi, there are on-demand taxis which allow you to hire the entire car to yourself. Most of these taxis have to be pre-booked by phone, they'll come to get you at your hotel or pre-determined location. They can also be found behind the Tourist Information Office at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Fidel Castro Street and on the northern side of Wernhill Park shopping mall. They also tend to gather at popular restaurants and nightpots. Make sure you agree on a price before taking them, most will ask for at least N$50 to go anywhere around Windhoek.

Note: Oftentimes locals will warn you against using shared cabs, especially at night. To be on the safe side, if you’re moving anywhere after dark it is a good idea to use Dial-a-cab.

Namibia has its own version of Uber called LEFA. LEFA is a Namibian Uber, and it is a very convenient method of transportation in and around the city. It works the same way that Uber does, you download the LEFA app from the App Store, register with a cellphone number, and you're ready to request your ride. Another cab company is called Dial-A-Cab, which works exactly as its name describes, you phone them and they send you a cab.

By Coach Bus

Interscap operates limited bus services in Namibia. The main routes are from Windhoek to swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Grootfontein, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Keetmanshoop and Oshikango.

In addition, there are combis (minibusses) that run between towns - drivers only start the journey when all seats are filled.

By Car

If you are planning on traveling throughout Namibia, the easiest way is to have your own rental car. However, the more remote you go, the more things you need to take into consideration and plan for. Many of the smaller, less used roads will only be accessible with a 4 wheel-drive car, either a Land Cruiser SUV or a pick-up truck. You would also need to be prepared with extra fuel, in case you get lost or reach a place that is too remote, and may not have fuel available. In Namibia, it's easy to drive for hundreds of miles and not reach any towns.

By Walking

Windhoek is walkable around the central districts. Most hotels are centrally located close to the city center, so you can easily walk to most shops, restaurants, and sights.

Walking after dark is not recommended.