Book cheap flights to Windhoek

Windhoek experiences a hot semi-arid climate, with two distinct seasons: dry (May to October) and wet (November to April). Average temperatures range from 31 degrees Celsius in summer to 6 degrees Celsius in winter. The most rain falls in December. The best time to visit Windhoek is from May to late-October. These months offer ideal conditions for activities, sight-seeing and game viewing in the national parks. This is peak season, so be prepared for denser crowds and higher rates. Oktoberfest takes over the city towards the end of October. Other notable events include: Enjando Street Festival (March) and Windhoek Karneval (late-April). For cheap flights to Windhoek, the best time to visit is between December and March.

South African passport holders do not require a visa to visit Namibia. You will need to ensure your passport has a validity of at least 6 months and has empty pages for entry stamps. If you are visiting from abroad, you will need a tourist visa (although some countries are exempt from obtaining visas). Visas are valid for 90 days.

Visit the VisaHQ website for more information and to find out if your country is exempt from obtaining a visa.

Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa. However, it is still recommended that you take certain precautions and use common sense as you would in any other unfamiliar city. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is recommended.

Remain vigilant and avoid flashy displays of wealth and carrying large sums of cash, valuables and important documents, as pick-pocketing does happen. Avoid driving outside of the city at night as wildlife and stray livestock pose a serious hazard. Townships should be avoided at night. Familiarise yourself with the local laws and customs before arriving.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from an infected area. Malaria is a risk in certain parts of Namibia, so the necessary precautions should be taken to avoid infection. Immunisation against hepatitis A & B, typhoid and rabies are recommended. Other routine vaccinations include MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio and influenza.

Windhoek is a large, sprawling city, so accommodation options are varied and available in abundance.

The suburbs of Ludwigsdorf, Suiderhof and Pioneers Park offer an exceptional selection for those wanting to experience the easy-going rhythm of Namibia, while Windhoek Central offers easy access to restaurants, transport and the nightlife. If it is your first time in Windhoek, staying in the city centre is recommended.

Accommodation in Windhoek ranges from ritzy safari hotels and lavish resorts offering glorious panoramic views, decadent spa facilities and sprawling golf courses, to charming guest houses and affordable hostels. Expect world-class facilities and exceptional hospitality.

Windhoek is a pedestrian-friendly city, so walking is one of the best ways to explore the city. However, private taxis are a great option for cross town trips or when temperatures are sweltering. A number of agencies operate within the city. Taxis can be organised through your hotel reception.

If you plan to venture out of the city limits, car rental offers superb freedom and flexibility. Kiosks for reliable car rental agencies such as Bidvest, Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Thrifty can be found at Hosea Kutako International Airport.