So, I just got back from Windhoek not too long ago, and wow, what a place! Honestly, I didn't know what to expect. When I think of Namibia, the first things that pop into my head are deserts, dunes, and maybe some cool wildlife, but the capital city? Not so much. However, I found myself on a whirlwind of experiences that were, surprisingly, some of the best things to do in Windhoek.
This spot? Total surprise.
Picture this: I'm wandering around the city, a bit lost but loving the vibe. I pull out my phone to find a café, but you know how it goes—my GPS wasn't playing nice. Somehow I ended up outside a funky little joint called Joe's Beerhouse. There's a big sign outside, and it looks like a mix between a rustic tavern and something straight out of an adventurous movie. I hesitated for a moment, doubting whether this was really the atmosphere I was looking for. I mean, how many beer houses can a traveler hit up before they start feeling that kind of tourist fatigue?
But something about the vibe was magnetic. Maybe it was the smell of grill smoke wafting toward me or the sounds of laughter and friendly chatter. I decided to take a plunge. And honestly? Best decision ever. The energy inside was infectious. I sat at a communal table—just hoping to blend in and not draw attention to the fact that I have zero coordination when it comes to chatting with strangers.
Now, let me tell you about the food. They had this thing called “braai,” which is basically a barbecue, and I opted for a plate full of boerewors. It was the kind of sausage that makes you want to forget about counting calories. Juicy, spiced, just the right bit of char—magic. I could've eaten it all day, but I was busy talking to the locals and having them explain all their favorite hangout spots. I even learned a bit about Namibia's history, which I hadn't known much about.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
I'd woken up that day in a bit of a funk. Not many people talk about how exhausting travel can be, but sometimes your mind just isn't in the right place to take in new sights. And that's part of the charm of Windhoek—you can be gliding along with the city's rhythm, feeling a bit lost (literally and figuratively), and all of a sudden you find something that flicks a switch in your brain.
After Joe's, I felt buoyed, so I wandered over to the Christuskirche, a quirky old church that looks like it was plucked straight from some fairy-tale book. I don't know why I almost skipped this. Maybe because I was worried it would just be another old building? But I went anyway, and it was oddly comforting. The soft sunlight filtering through the windows gave off this warm glow that wrapped itself around me, and I took a seat on one of the benches just to breathe it all in.
I had a little moment there—sitting in silence and reflecting. I thought about how it's easy to get caught up in plans, schedules, and lists. Here I was, just existing in this quiet, beautiful space, way off the beaten path. I swore I could almost hear the whispers of history in that room, and seriously, I was almost teary-eyed over it. It was genuinely one of those moments that doesn't get captured in any travel guide.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Later, as I made my way through the city's streets, I took a wrong turn—classic me, right? When I noticed my little detour, I was overwhelmed wondering if I'd just wasted time. But you know what? That's when I stumbled upon the Namibia Craft Centre. It looked like just another stop, but once I ducked inside, it felt like stepping into a small world of talent.
The crafts, the artistry, the vibrant colors—all were stunning. I chatted with a lovely woman who was making intricate jewelry and she shared stories about how each piece tells a part of her history. It made me think about how, in a city that sometimes pushes forward so fast, there's still a rootedness to culture and identity. I picked up a small bracelet to take home, and now every time I look at it, I remember that unexpected encounter.
In a way, getting lost opened up a door to a mini adventure I didn't even know I was craving. It's funny how life throws you these little surprises when you're looking the other way.
An evening meal that still has me dreaming
As the sun set, I headed over to The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro. I figured I should treat myself to a proper dinner, and wow, did that plate leave a mark. The waiter recommended some kind of slow-cooked lamb, which, I can assure you, was heavenly. It was a perfect blend of flavors that had me savoring every bite, almost forgetting to chew because I wanted to keep the amazingness going.
I had a glass of local wine, which was superb—fruity and bold—and I ended up chatting with my fellow diners, who were super friendly. We ended up sharing stories and some good laughs. I thought, “This is what good meals do; they connect people.” Each moment felt like a gift.
So there I was, sipping on my wine, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, wondering why I almost let myself miss out on such good food and even better company.
As I reminisce…
As I sit here, sipping my coffee and thinking back on Windhoek, I'm reminded of how life has a way of surprising you. Sure, I faced moments of doubt—should I eat at Joe's? Should I have skipped that church? But each little misstep led to unexpected gems, and in the end, isn't that what travel really is? Even with my questionable sense of direction, I found a lot of what feels good—a delightful mix of simplicity and depth.
If you ever get a chance, toss out some plans and just meander. You never know what amazing things await you. I mean, these are the best things to do in Windhoek after all, all wrapped up in serendipitous moments and delectable meals. I could keep talking about it all day—but I better not let my coffee get cold!
