Experience the Best of Windhoek & Richness of Key Towns from Gaborone on a Family Trip

Introduction

Embarking on a family adventure is always exciting, and our recent journey from Gaborone in Botswana to Windhoek in Namibia proved unforgettable.

Windhoek, often celebrated as one of the cleanest cities in Africa, greeted us with its vibrant mix of rich culture, fascinating history, and modern conveniences.

As we arrived in Windhoek, the first thing that struck us was the stunning architecture, a charming blend of German colonial buildings and contemporary designs. The warm hospitality of the locals made us feel right at home as we explored the city.

One of our highlights was visiting the Independence Memorial Museum, where we appreciated Namibia’s compelling history and learnt about the struggle for independence.

We also enjoyed wandering through the bustling streets of the city centre, sampling local cuisine at cosy eateries. The flavours of traditional Namibian dishes like biltong and kapana were a delightful treat for our taste buds.

Of course, every adventure comes with its challenges. Navigating a new city can be daunting, especially with little ones in tow. However, thanks to a few helpful locals and a reliable map, we overcame any obstacles that came our way.

In this blog, I’ll share the ins and outs of our journey, the obstacles we encountered, and the cherished moments we created in Windhoek. This guide will equip you with all the essential information for an incredible trip to Windhoek.

The Journey from Gaborone to Windhoek

Starting the Adventure

Our adventure commenced in the vibrant city of Gaborone, Botswana. We ensured we had everything we needed for the journey ahead. By 8 a.m., the sun was already casting a warm glow over the city, and we hit the road excitedly.

The scenic drive took us through a series of charming towns, each with its unique character. We passed by Kanye, where we did stop but took a turn to the right to stay on the road to Ghanzi. Continuing our journey, we passed through Jwaneng, known for its diamond mine, where we briefly bought food, stretched ourselves, and used bathrooms.

Next, we made our way to Kang, a quaint town that offered a brief but refreshing glimpse into rural life in Botswana. The drive was not just a means to an end but a memorable part of our experience, filled with stunning views and cultural encounters along the way.

Jwaneng

Jwaneng is a small but significant town in Botswana, renowned for being home to one of the richest diamond mines in the world. The Jwaneng Diamond Mine, often called the “Prince of Mines,” is a major contributor to Botswana’s economy and produces some of the highest-quality diamonds globally.

The mine, operated by Debswana (a partnership between the Botswana government and De Beers), is a testament to the country’s thriving mining industry and its role as one of the world’s leading diamond producers.

As we drove through Jwaneng, we couldn’t help but notice the town’s modest yet functional infrastructure, which caters primarily to the mining community. The town itself is relatively small, with a population of around 18,000 people, many of whom are employed by the mine or in supporting industries.

Despite its size, Jwaneng has a few essential amenities, including shops, petrol stations, and restaurants, making it a convenient stop for travellers.

We took the opportunity to briefly stretch our legs, buy some snacks, and use the restrooms at one of the local service stations.

The town had a laid-back atmosphere, and the locals were friendly and welcoming. While Jwaneng isn’t a tourist destination per se, its significance in the global diamond industry makes it an interesting place to pass through.

The mine itself is not open to the public, but its presence is felt throughout the town, with mining-related activities and infrastructure dominating the landscape.

For those interested in geology or mining, Jwaneng offers a glimpse into Botswana’s economic backbone. The town’s proximity to the mine means it’s well-maintained, with clean facilities and a sense of order.

Although we didn’t stay long, our brief stop in Jwaneng reminded us of Botswana’s wealth in natural resources and the importance of the diamond industry to the country’s development. It’s a fascinating place to pause and reflect on the journey, especially when travelling from Gaborone to Windhoek.

Kang

Kang is a quaint and charming village in the Kalahari Desert region of Botswana. Known as the “Gateway to the Kalahari,” Kang is a popular stopover for travellers travelling between Gaborone and Windhoek, as it lies roughly halfway between the two cities.

With a population of around 5,000 people, Kang offers a refreshing glimpse into rural life in Botswana, where the pace is slower, and the landscapes are vast and serene.

The drive to Kang was an experience in itself, with the road cutting through the expansive Kalahari Desert. The scenery was breathtaking, with endless stretches of golden savannah dotted with acacia trees and the occasional herd of grazing wildlife.

Along the way, we encountered small settlements and roadside stalls where locals sold handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional snacks like biltong (dried meat) and mopane worms, a local delicacy.

Kang itself is a small but welcoming town, with basic amenities such as petrol stations, guesthouses, and a few shops. It’s a place where you can refuel—both your vehicle and yourself—before continuing on your journey.

We stopped at one of the local petrol stations to fill up our tank and grab some snacks. The town’s simplicity and tranquillity starkly contrasted with the bustling cities we had left behind, and it provided a much-needed break from the long drive.

One of the highlights of Kang is its proximity to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, one of the world’s largest and most remote game reserves. While we didn’t have time to explore the reserve on this trip, it’s a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see animals like lions, cheetahs, and giraffes in their natural habitat.

Kang also serves as a base for travellers heading to the Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock paintings.

Our brief stop in Kang reminded us of Botswana’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the beauty of rural Botswana. Surely, Kang offers a unique and memorable experience for any traveller.

Crossing into Namibia

The drive from Gaborone to the Mamuno border, which separates Botswana and Namibia, took approximately 8 hours. We arrived at around 4 p.m. and spent about an hour completing immigration formalities.

After completing the immigration formalities, we fuelled up at a gas station just a few yards away from the border. We left the station around 5 p.m. and passed through towns like Gobabis, Witviel, and Seeis.

Gobabis

As we drove into Gobabis, the “Capital of the Omaheke Region,” I couldn’t help but feel curious about this small but historically rich town. Known as the “Place of the Elephant,” Gobabis had a quiet, welcoming vibe that immediately put us at ease after hours on the road.

My wife, Omega, remarked that the wide-open spaces and endless farmlands surrounding the town reminded her of the rural areas in our home country, Malawi.

The kids, Waomba and Mwika Junior, were equally fascinated. They pointed at the herds of cattle grazing in the distance and asked endless questions about the town’s name and history.

As we passed through the town, I noticed the mix of modern buildings and traditional structures, which gave Gobabis a unique charm. We stopped at a local petrol station to refuel, and while I filled up the tank, Omega and the kids explored a small roadside stall selling handmade crafts and fresh produce.

Waomba picked up a beautifully carved wooden elephant, exclaiming, “Look, Dad, it’s like the town’s name!” Mwika Junior, on the other hand, was more interested in the bags of biltong (dried meat) and begged us to buy some for the road.

Omega laughed and said, “I guess we’re not leaving without a taste of Namibia!”

We didn’t have much time to explore Gobabis in-depth, but the brief stop gave us a glimpse into its agricultural roots. I explained to the kids how Gobabis is a major centre for cattle farming and how the town’s economy revolves around the land.

Omega chimed in, “It’s amazing how connected people here are to their environment. It’s so different from the city life we’re used to.”

As we drove out of Gobabis, I felt a sense of appreciation for this small town and its role as a gateway between Namibia and Botswana. The kids were busy munching on their biltong, and Omega admired the wooden elephant Waomba had bought.

It was a simple stop, but it added a layer of richness to our journey, reminding us that sometimes the most memorable moments come from the places we least expect.

Gobabis may not be a bustling tourist destination, but for our family, it was a peaceful and meaningful pause in our adventure.

Witviel

As we continued our journey from Gobabis toward Windhoek, we passed through Witvlei, a small but fascinating settlement in eastern Namibia.

Witvlei, which means “White Marsh” in Afrikaans, is known for its salt pans and its role as a cattle farming community. The town is quiet and unassuming, but its unique charm caught our attention as we drove through.

When we arrived in Witvlei, the first thing that struck me was the vast, open landscape. The salt pans shimmered in the distance, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Omega, my wife, pointed out how the sunlight reflected off the white surfaces, making the area look like a giant mirror.

“It’s so peaceful here,” she said, “like time has stopped.”

We didn’t have time for a detour, but we quickly stopped at a local petrol station to stretch our legs and grab some snacks. Witvlei is small, with just a few shops and amenities, but it has a warm, welcoming feel.

As we walked around, I noticed a group of locals chatting outside a small café, their laughter carrying through the quiet streets.

Omega remarked, “It’s nice to see a place where everyone seems to know each other. It feels like a real community.”

Even though the darkness had just started overpowering any remaining light, the cattle grazing near the roadside fascinated the kids. Waomba even tried to mimic the cows’ sounds, which had us all laughing.

Witvlei wasn’t a place we had planned to visit, but its simplicity and natural beauty left a lasting impression on all of us. For Omega, it was the tranquillity; for the kids, it was the curiosity of seeing something new; and for me, it reminded me how even the most minor places could hold so much wonder.

Witvlei may not be on every traveller’s radar, but it was a memorable part of our family’s journey through Namibia.

Seeis

As we approached Seeis, a small settlement about 60 kilometres east of Windhoek, the sun had already set, and the landscape was bathed in heavy darkness.

By this point, the kids were utterly worn out from the long drive and had dozed off in the backseat. Omega smiled back at them and said, “They’ve been such troopers today. It’s been a long journey, but we’re almost there.”

Seeis is a quiet, rural community nestled in the Khomas Hochland region, known for its rolling hills and scenic beauty. Although it was too dark to appreciate the landscape fully, I could sense the area’s tranquillity as we drove through.

The road was quiet, with only the occasional passing car, and the stars were already peeking through the night sky. We didn’t stop in Seeis, as we were eager to reach Windhoek, but I couldn’t help but notice the small clusters of houses and farmsteads scattered along the roadside.

The settlement is primarily an agricultural community, with many residents involved in livestock farming. Omega pointed out a few cattle grazing near the road, their silhouettes barely visible in the dim light. “It’s amazing how life here revolves around the land,” she said. “It’s so different from the city.”

As we continued driving, I thought about how Seeis, though small and unassuming, is where Namibia’s rural charm truly shines. It reminds us of the country’s deep connection to its natural environment and the simplicity of life outside the bustling cities.

Omega and I shared a quiet moment, appreciating the stillness of the night and the sense of calm that Seeis exuded.

When we passed through Seeis, the kids were still fast asleep, completely unaware of the peaceful surroundings.

Omega and I, however, felt content. The long drive had been tiring, but moments like these—driving through the quiet Namibian countryside in darkness—made the journey feel special.

Seeis may have been just a brief stop on our route, but it added a touch of serenity to our adventure, a quiet pause before we reached the vibrant energy of Windhoek.

Arrival in Windhoek

The sight of Hosea Kutako International Airport was a welcome sign that we were nearing Windhoek. We arrived in Windhoek late in the evening, around 9 p.m.

A traffic fine for speeding earlier and heavy peak-hour traffic as we approached Windhoek delayed our entry into the city. T

o make matters worse (and maybe hilarious and frustrating at the same time), when we reached our booked Airbnb property at 10 p.m., we discovered it had been sold and was no longer available.

When I called the owner using the number registered with Airbnb, she informed us that she was in the UK, which was not so much of a surprise to me considering that she had not been responding to any of the messages I had been sending her on my way to Windhoek and the ringing of her phone sounded like she was, indeed, roaming.

When I further quizzed her about why she was still collecting payments on Airbnb instead of removing her property from the list, she claimed Airbnb was still in the process of removing the property from its listings.

Despite this setback, we booked another place and arrived at the new property just before midnight, completely exhausted. The next day, I successfully applied for a refund from Airbnb.

Exploring Windhoek: A City of Cleanliness and Charm

Strolling Around the City

One of the first things we noticed about Windhoek was its cleanliness. The streets were well-maintained, and the city had a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

We spent our first day strolling around the city, enjoying sights and sounds. The blend of German colonial architecture and modern African influences was fascinating.

Key Attractions:

• Christuskirche: This iconic Lutheran church, built in the early 20th century, is a must-visit. Its neo-Gothic design and historical significance make it a standout landmark.
• Independence Memorial Museum: This museum offers a deep dive into Namibia’s struggle for independence. The exhibits are both educational and moving.
• Namibia Craft Centre: Located in the Old Breweries Building, this centre is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and supporting local artisans.

Shopping in Windhoek

My family thoroughly enjoyed the shopping experience in Windhoek. The city offers a mix of modern malls and traditional markets. We visited the Post Street Mall, home to various shops selling everything from clothing to electronics.

The mall also features a beautiful display of meteorites, which was a hit with the kids.

For a more traditional shopping experience, we headed to the Oshetu Market (Single Quarters Market). Here, we sampled local delicacies and bought handmade crafts. The market’s vibrant atmosphere gave us a real taste of Namibian culture.

Dining in Windhoek: A Culinary Adventure

Windhoek’s dining scene is as diverse as its culture. Over the three days we spent in the city, we had the opportunity to dine at several fantastic restaurants.

1. Joe’s Beerhouse:

• Location: 160 Nelson Mandela Avenue
• Specialty: Joe’s Beerhouse is a Windhoek institution known for its hearty portions and eclectic decor. We enjoyed their perfectly cooked game meat dishes, including kudu and oryx.

2. The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro:

• Location: 320 Sam Nujoma Drive
• Speciality: This bistro offers a fine selection of South African wines and a menu that blends European and African flavours. We loved their seafood platter and the cosy, intimate setting.

3. Leo’s at the Castle:

• Location: Heinitzburg Castle, 22 Heinitzburg Street
• Specialty: Dining at Leo’s was a luxurious experience. The restaurant is located in a historic castle and offers stunning city views. Their menu features gourmet dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

4. Sardinia Blue Olive:

• Location: 40 Beethoven Street
• Specialty: This Italian restaurant was a delightful surprise. The pasta dishes were authentic, and the pizzas were some of the best we’ve had outside of Italy.

Affordable Accommodation in Windhoek

Finding affordable accommodation in Windhoek is easy if you know where to look. Platforms like Airbnb, Expedia and Hotels.com offer many options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels.

We stayed at the Hilton Windhoek, which provided excellent amenities and was centrally located.

For those interested in nightlife, Windhoek has a vibrant scene, but unfortunately, considering the kids accompanied us on this trip, we could not visit any.

However, as someone who has visited Windhoek several times, I can highly recommend Club Thrive, a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Each time I’ve patronised Club Thrive, the music has been great, and the atmosphere has always been lively without being overwhelming.

Key Takeaways

• Plan Your Fuel Stops: If driving from Gaborone to Windhoek, carefully plan your fuel stops, especially between Kang and the Mamuno border.
• Book Accommodation in Advance: Always double-check your accommodation bookings, especially if you’re using platforms like Airbnb.
• Explore Windhoek’s Cleanliness and Culture: Windhoek is one of the cleanest cities in Africa, and its blend of German colonial architecture and modern African influences is fascinating.
• Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Windhoek offers a diverse dining scene to suit every palate.
• Shop Local: Visit local markets, such as the Oshetu Market, for unique souvenirs and crafts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time to visit Windhoek?

• The best time to visit Windhoek is during the dry season, from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and there is little to no rainfall.

2. How long does it take to drive from Gaborone to Windhoek?

• The drive from Gaborone to Windhoek takes approximately 12–14 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times.

3. Are there any must-visit attractions in Windhoek?

• Yes, some must-visit attractions include the Christuskirche, the Independence Memorial Museum, and the Namibia Craft Centre.

4. What are some affordable dining options in Windhoek?

• Consider visiting places like Joe’s Beerhouse and the Oshetu Market for affordable dining. These places offer local delicacies at reasonable prices.

5. How can I find affordable accommodation in Windhoek?

• Platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com offer various affordable accommodation options in Windhoek. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Final Thoughts

Our family trip to Windhoek was truly unforgettable, and filled with remarkable experiences that we will cherish for years to come. It’s one of the best Mwika’s Tours.

The journey began with some challenging stretches on the road, during which time the picturesque landscapes of Namibia unfolded before our eyes, showcasing vast deserts and rolling hills that added to the adventure.

Upon arriving in Windhoek, we were immediately struck by the city’s impressive cleanliness and welcoming atmosphere.

The vibrant streets were lined with beautifully preserved colonial architecture and modern buildings, blending the old with the new.

We immersed ourselves in the area’s rich culture by visiting local museums, such as the National Museum of Namibia, where we learned about the history and heritage of this fascinating country.

Dining in Windhoek was a culinary delight! We savoured local specialities, such as hearty biltong and traditional braai, at lively restaurants that offered both outdoor seating and warm hospitality.

The lively markets and bustling cafes filled the air with tantalizing aromas, making every meal an adventure of its own.

Windhoek offers a wealth of experiences tailored to every traveller’s desires. From outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby hills to relaxing in parks filled with lush greenery, the city truly has something for everyone.

So, gather your belongings, map out your journey, and get excited to discover the charm and beauty of one of Africa’s most captivating cities!