"Namibia’s capital city, located almost in the very centre of the country, has its own beguiling Europe-meets-Africa charm. Many buildings in the city centre show off a German influence – remnants of the country’s early colonial history – in their architectural style, while the vibe of the city carries all that sass and liveliness that is so wonderfully African. Windhoek is the international gateway to the country, and a very pleasant place to spend a day or two at the beginning or end of a journey.”
- Narina Exelby
Windhoek & Surrounds
The eclectic city of Windhoek is home to the majority of Namibia’s population – but don’t expect high-rise buildings and big-city bustle. The country’s pleasant capital, located in a basin in the Khomas Highland plateau, tackles life at its own easy pace. Good amenities, wide roads, neat verges and a prevailing sense of space characterise this well-groomed city.
A good way to get to know about Windhoek is to do a guided walk around the city, and those wanting to learn more about Namibia’s history and unique cultures and traditions should make time to visit both the National Museum of Namibia and the Owela Museum. Soak up the atmosphere in one of the street-side cafes, or catch up on souvenir shopping at the Namibia Craft Centre, where you’ll find a wide variety of locally made crafts.
Windhoek is surrounded by many small private nature reserves, safari lodges and pleasant guest farms, which give travellers the opportunity to experience “Africa” from the very beginning (or at the very end) of their trip. Wildlife varies from property to property, but generally speaking there is more game in the area north of Windhoek; east of Windhoek tends to be dominated by farmlands while the west offers wonderful mountain scenery.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON
The wettest period of the year, although rainfall usually comes in the form of short-lived afternoon thunderstorms; the rest of the time it is largely sunny.
Midday temperatures are hot, with an average high 30°C/86°F midday, temperatures can occasionally rise well above this. Mornings average a pleasant 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
WET SEASON
The wettest period of the year, although rainfall usually comes in the form of short-lived afternoon thunderstorms; the rest of the time it is largely sunny.
Midday temperatures are hot, with an average high 30°C/86°F midday, temperatures can occasionally rise well above this. Mornings average a pleasant 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
WET SEASON
The wettest period of the year, although rainfall usually comes in the form of short-lived afternoon thunderstorms; the rest of the time it is largely sunny.
Midday temperatures are hot, with an average high 30°C/86°F midday, temperatures can occasionally rise well above this. Mornings average a pleasant 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
WET SEASON
The rains begin to fade, with the likelihood of thunderstorms diminishing over the month.
Average midday temperatures are a pleasant 26°C/80°F. Mornings average a chilly 13°C/55°F
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 6°C/43°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 6°C/43°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 6°C/43°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate.
Midday temperatures are surprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 6°C/43°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
DRY SEASON
As the land continues to dry animals are drawn to the few remaining sources of water; in locations such as Etosha this can equate to some incredible game viewing. Temperatures however are quite cool, and cold in the mornings, so do pack some warm clothes! .
Namibia has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. The dry season also improves the likelihood of good game view sightings, as wildlife concentrates itself around the few remaining water sources. There is also a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions continue to dominate.
Midday temperatures are beginning to rise in advance of the rains, averaging around 29°C /84°F by October. Night temperatures are also higher, with an average low of 16°C/60°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
The start of the wet season, with the occasional short sharp thunderstorm.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
The start of the wet season, with the occasional short sharp thunderstorm.
Like the rest of Namibia, Windhoek and the surrounding areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Explore Windhoek & Surrounds Properties
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Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel
Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel
Forming part of the award-winning Am Weinberg Estate, Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel is an intimate property combining old-world elegance with modern charm. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley, local wines in the inviting ..
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Galton House
Galton House
Galton House is a modern accommodation close to the city centre of Windhoek. Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, the house has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with wildlife photography decorating the walls and a ..
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Olive Grove Guesthouse
Olive Grove Guesthouse
Taking its name from a neighbouring grove of olive trees, Olive Grove Guesthouse is a pretty boutique hotel in the heart of Windhoek. Small in size with wonderful gardens and an elegant style, the property may be in the city but ..
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The Olive Exclusive Hotel
The Olive Exclusive Hotel
The Olive Exclusive Hotel is an elegant and contemporary boutique hotel in the quiet streets of Windhoek. Just moments from the city centre, the hotel remains a true sanctuary with spacious and individually designed rooms, ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
