Ten things to do in Windhoek

Being the largest city, Windhoek is perfectly positioned to start or end your Namibian experience. The city is laid back with a vibrant energy, and modern without compromising the bold German influences of yesteryear.
Whether you are looking to explore the history or experience the modern amenities, Windhoek has something for everyone. John McAree, general manager at Hilton Windhoek, shares what he considers the 10 must-do activities­ in Windhoek.
1. Get Inked at the Tintenpalast
Tintenpalast, German for ‘Ink Palace,’ is Namibia’s parliament. This remarkable 102-year old building was made from indigenous materials and is surrounded by 80-year old manicured gardens. Tintenpalast gets its name from the ink that was used to sign the excessive paperwork that came out of the administration at that time. The premises are also home to the first post-indepen­dence monument – a statue of Herero chief, Hosea Kutako, who famously­ opposed South African rule.
2. Visit the Old Fort
Namibia is a former German colony and in Windhoek, the German influence is almost palpable. A guided tour of the Namibia National Museum at the Alte Feste (Old Fort) is essential, offering engaging historic information from the German invasion of Namibia to the libera­tion struggle.
3. Mix with the people
Take a trip to Katutura. The locals are friendly and it will give you a glimpse of how some of them live. The history of the township is interesting and it informs Namibia’s December 10 public holiday commemorating Human Rights Day. Most guided tours of the township delve into it as part of the tour. Visitors can book the township tour via a tour operator which your hotel can recommend.
4. Interactive dining at Ekipa
Enjoy an interac­tive dining experience at Hilton Windhoek’s restaurant, Ekipa. Patrons have the opportunity to prepare their own dishes, from the menu or not, with the help of chefs.
5. The Hofmeyr Walk
The Hofmeyer Walk is a leisurely walk through the Klein Windhoek Valley that offers majestic views of the city and the vegetation in the outlying areas. The walk takes about an hour long and is suitable for all ages.
6. The Church of Peace
Visit one of the oldest landmarks in the country, the Christuskirche or Christ Church in English. The church was the result of the end of the war between the Germans and the Khoikhoi, Ovambo and Herero. The church’s décor elements are ornate and reminiscent of the rebellious art nouveau movement from the early years of the 20th century. The building is still used by Lutheran worshippers.
7. Relax and replenish
Leisure is not leisure until there is some pampering. Relax and replen­ish at award-winning Breeze Spa, located at Hilton Windhoek’s 9th Floor. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments to recharge and rejuve­nate your body. While the skilled masseuse works on your feet, feast on a breath taking view of the Windhoek skyline and beyond.
8. Trans-Namib Transport Museum
Located in a Dutch-German colonial-style building at the Windhoek Train Station, the museum paints a picture of the transport system in Namibia from late 1800’s into the 20the century. It is home to old locomotives, which were used during the German South Africa rule and archives of information on the evolution of transport in Namibia.
9. Sundowners at Skybar
End your day with sundowners at Skybar, a rooftop bar at Hilton Windhoek. Artisanal and classic cocktails are served, along with a gene­rous wine list and a range of beers available. Where you can enjoy cocktails, watch the sunset over stunning panoramic views of the city.
10. Momentos?
Spoil yourself and your loved ones with authentic souvenirs from the Namibia Craft Centre. The centre is home to craftsmen and women who sell artefacts that include carved Makalani kernels, Himba bracelets, dyed wild silk, San ostrich eggshell jewellery, to name a few. At the Namibia Craft Centre is also a café, Craft Café which serves light lunches and snacks.