Exploring Namibia's Central Region
The central region of Namibia is the starting point for most trips organized around the country, since the capital Windhoek with its international airport, Hosea Kutako, lies in the centre of the region.
A well-maintained road structure and many guest farms, B&Bs and lodges make the Central region an ideal stopover for visitors en route to the Etosha Pan in the North, the Fish River Canyon in the South, or the West Coast. Vegetation is typically bushy (thornbush savanna) with lots of grasslands, bushy shrubs, camelthorn trees and many hills and mountains which makes for interesting scenery.
About 300 bird species have been recorded in this vegetation zone, from ground feeders like Red-billed Francolin, and helmeted Guineafowl to those that look for food in the canopies of trees like the beautiful Pied Barbet. Game is abundant also in this area with many species of antelope (especially kudu) being a common sight.
Most game farms, however, hold a wide variety of game ranging from leopard, rhino and lion right down to the smaller game like springbok and open vehicle game viewing is a daily activity on offer at all farms.
Places of Interest in the Central Region:
Windhoek, the heart of Namibia!
The capital of Windhoek lies in the heart of Namibia. It possesses a unique charm due to the harmonious blend of African and European cultures. Despite being one of the smallest of the African capitals, it has over the years developed into a thriving, efficient city with a superb infrastructure which has gained popularity as a safe tourism, business and conference destination.
With two airports, Hosea Kutako International Airport, which lies about 40km East of the capital and Eros Airport, situated on its outskirts, international and domestic/regional flights are well catered for.
Since Namibia’s independence in 1990, tourism has boomed and Windhoek offers many world-class restaurants, coffee shops, guest houses, B&B and hotels to choose from.
Visit the local markets in the North-Western suburbs of Windhoek to gain insight into the true Namibian community way of life, visit the many monuments and historical buildings in and around the capital and browse at leisure through local craft markets and the many curio shops on Independence Avenue.
For advice on outings and day tours, visit the Windhoek Tourism Info Office in Post Street Mall, situated right opposite the Zoo Park, in the heart of the city. Healthcare facilities are top class with two state hospitals and three private clinics (Rhino Park, Roman Catholic and Medi Clinic) offering well-equipped facilities and well-qualified medical practitioners.
Intensive Care units and 24-hour medical emergency services are always on call. Car hire companies and tour operators are manifold in the capital. Air Namibia is the national airline of the country with many travel agents and offices around town.
Most guesthouses and B&Bs offer booking advice and services regarding transport, trips and tours around the country.
The Namibian post and telecommunications network is well established and cell phone companies offer the usual packages and satellite reception of good international standard.
Internet cafés have sprung up like mushrooms – so there’s no need to lose touch with your loved one’s when travelling in Namibia. Banks are well represented in the capital and all offer efficient foreign exchange facilities.
Autobanks also offer Saswitch transactions and are usually well-serviced and maintained. Shopping for mementoes or stocking up on your travelling kit is a worthwhile pursuit when in Windhoek and coffee shops and restaurants offer scrumptious meals and the best coffees since your last Italian cappuccino.
