Windhoek, Namibia
On our way to Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, we make a stop at a local craft market where you can purchase genuine African artworks, including carvings and paintings. Upon our arrival in Windhoek, we embark on a brief walking tour around the lovely city. End your day enjoying an optional dining experience at Joe’s Beer House
Windhoek was initially given the name Ai-Gams by the Nama people, meaning ‘hot water’. This was because of the hot springs that were once a significant part of this area. The Herero people who used to dwell there, referred to it as Otjomuise meaning ‘place of steam’. There are various beliefs on how Ai-Gams/Otjomuise came to be known as Windhoek, but the most popular theory is that this name was derived from the Afrikaans word ‘Wind-Hoek’, meaning ‘corner of wind’. Another belief is that the Afrikaans people named Windhoek after the Winterhoek Mountains located in Tulbagh, South Africa, where the early Afrikaans settlers resided at one point in time. During those days of colonialism, Windhoek acted as the point of contact between the fighting Namas, led by Jan Jonker Afrikaner, and the Herero people.
Today’s Windhoek was established on the 18th of October, 1890, when Van Francois (a German settler) repaired the foundation stone of the Alte Feste fort. Throughout the next fourteen years, Windhoek gradually progressed with only the most crucial government and private building being constructed. Following 1907, the town developed rapidly as people began to migrate from the countryside to the city, and a massive flood of European settlers started to arrive from Germany and South Africa. Countless gorgeous buildings and monuments were constructed, including Heinitzburg (one of the three castles of Windhoek), the enchanting Christuskirche and The Rider statue.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Heja Game Lodge or Hotel Safari
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Etosha National Park to Windhoek ±450 km
Included Highlight: Craft market stop en-route, short walk through Windhoek with your guide
Optional Activity: Dinner at Local Restaurant
2019 Itinerary Change:
Etosha National Park, Namibia
On the second day, there is more terrific game spotting on our way to our next campsite. Etosha National Park provides some of the most exclusive game viewing experiences in Africa. We will have several game drives here and spend time at the waterhole where we will have the opportunity to take some fantastic pictures.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Okaukuejo or similar
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park
Included Highlight: Full Day Game drive in truck
