Best hotels in Windhoek

Named after the famous explorer, Sir Francis Galton, Galton House is one of Windhoek's most fabulous accommodation options, with a relaxed but efficient style and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interior decor combines modern minimalism and understated chic, highlighting the dramatic photographic prints and canvases of local wildlife that adorn the walls. Galton House lies in a quiet suburb and anyone staying here can be assured of peace and tranquillity. The food is superb – the owner's wife operates a popular restaurant in the city, so expect to eat well. And you're guaranteed strong Wi-Fi throughout the house.

Drive 30 minutes east of Namibia's Windhoek International and you'll find yourself deep in the country's savanna landscapes – the setting for the 900-square-kilometre Zannier Reserve by N/a’an ku sê (established by the Belgian hotel group and a local conservation foundation), and its new Omaanda lodge. This slice of wilderness wards off city sprawl to provide an important refuge for wildlife like leopard and giraffe, warthog, antelope, ostrich and jackal, and also surrounds the Shiloh Wildlife Sanctuary, an intermediary reserve for injured or abandoned rhinos and elephants. Commendable ethics and attractive modern design make Zannier Omaanda a no-brainer.

At the heart of any safari experience is the desire to connect, or reconnect, with something – oneself, the earth, a sense of space. Fulfilling that need for deeper human connections is the core mission of the Habitas group of international hotels and camps. The group's latest venture is in the Namib Desert, an hour's drive from the Namibian capital, Windhoek. Here, on a private 35,000-hectare reserve, you'll find a camp where the real luxury lies in its simplicity, from the clean lines and practically wall-less structures to the guided bush walks and emphasis on local knowledge and culture.

This friendly guesthouse, with superb facilities, is located in the leafy suburb of Klein Windhoek, just 45 mins drive from the international airport. A former family home, it has been renovated into a contemporary, eleven-roomed guesthouse, complete with a large shaded terrace, open-plan kitchen, small plunge pool and a wellness treatment room. It shares the same views of the olive grove and city skyline, as its neighbour, the Olive Exclusive. The food and wine list are fantastic, especially for a property of this size and price range. The staff are attentive and welcoming, providing a warm start to your Namibian adventure.

Naankuse Lodge is a unique luxury lodge a short distance from Windhoek, with striking architectural features and extravagant accommodation. It is situated within a private nature reserve and wildlife rehabilitation sanctuary, and what sets this one apart from other safari lodges is that guests are invited to experience life behind the scenes of this community-driven reserve, with the chance to encounter several species of rescued and rehabilitated wildlife, including caracal, cheetah and baboons. There is also the fascinating opportunity to discover aspects of the ancient art of San bush lore from the local community.

Set smack bang in the heart of Windhoek, The Hilton occupies apretty good location whether you’re in the city on business or about to head off on safari. Contemporary in style, the hotel is modern and fresh and there are several restaurants and bars to choose from if you’ve got a limited amount of time, serving everything from hearty breakfasts to light bites and cocktails. And if you have a little bit more time, the rooftop swimming pool and accompanying bar are the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

GocheGanas is a luxury safari lodge and spa about 30 kilometres from Windhoek within a small private game reserve, offering the wonderful combination of an indulgent health spa retreat and a laid-back safari experience. Its name means “place of camel thorns” in the local Damara language, and this scenically diverse part of Namibia is particularly interesting for its desert-adapted flora and fauna and fascinating geological history. The lodge has a traditional African feel with all the necessary modern comforts, and the chance to connect with nature while making the most of the huge choice of pampering spa treatments and facilities.

River Crossing Lodge is a mere five-minute drive from the city of Windhoek, yet its setting within the Moltkeblick Private Reserve gives it a remote feel. From its vantage point on a rocky ridge of hills, the night lights of Windhoek are visible from one side, with far-reaching views over the rugged mountains and landscapes of the edge of the Namib Desert out in front. Twenty guest chalets offer comfortable accommodation, with a spacious main lodge reminiscent of an original German farmstead on the outside, and a stylish modern interior. A variety of safari activities are offered.

The Protea Hotel Windhoek Furstenhof is a centrally located property that sits just five minutes' walk from Windhoek's bustling CBD, offering travelers a convenient base with modern amenities including a sparkling pool and spa services.