Wanderlust Travel Magazine (UK)
■First Day’ s Tour
Start at a landmark: the Christuskirche church built in 1907. Nearby, the Independence Memorial Museum tells the story of Namibia’s struggle for independence, finally achieved in 1990. If you’re short of time, a three-hour City and Township tour with Chameleon Safaris (chameleonsafaris.com; N$300/ £17) will gives a good overview of the country’s fascinating history. After exploring the city centre, including the ‘Ink Palace’ ( pictured) and Parliament Gardens, drive to the Penduka Women’s Centre, a non-profit organisation that enables women to support themselves by teaching them handicrafts. You’ll also visit a market in the Single Quarters, part of the growing Katutura Township, to learn about – and try – the staple foods.
The Namibia Craft Centre (namibiacraftcentre.com) is filled with small stalls selling Namibian-made ostrich egg jewellery, baskets and more. If you’re still feeling energetic, Equitrails (equitrails.org) offers horse riding for all levels in the scenic Eros Mountains, just 15km north of the city. And for dinner, try Joe’s Beerhouse ( joesbeerhouse.com), one of Windhoek’s top restaurants and beer gardens, with local meat and game as well as vegetarian options.