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Parliament Gardens, Namibia - Things to Do in Parliament Gardens

Parliament Gardens

Parliament Gardens, Namibia - Complete Travel Guide

Parliament Gardens is a charming residential suburb located in the heart of Windhoek, Namibia's capital city. This well-established neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, colonial-era architecture, and proximity to key government buildings and cultural attractions. The area serves as an excellent base for exploring Windhoek's rich German colonial heritage, busy markets, and impressive natural surroundings. As part of greater Windhoek, Parliament Gardens offers visitors easy access to the city's main attractions while providing a quieter, more residential atmosphere. The suburb is characterized by its mix of historical buildings, modern amenities, and beautiful gardens that give the area its name. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed pace of life while being just minutes away from Windhoek's bustling city center, making it an ideal location for those seeking to experience authentic Namibian urban culture.

Top Parliament Gardens

Windhoek's Historic City Center

Discover the fascinating blend of German colonial and modern African architecture in Windhoek's compact city center. Visit landmarks like the Christuskirche, the old German fort Alte Feste, and the distinctive Independence Memorial Museum with its striking tower offering panoramic city views.

Booking Tip: Most historical sites are free to visit or charge minimal entrance fees (N$10-50). Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best photography light and cooler temperatures. The Independence Memorial Museum charges around N$30 for adults.

Local Craft Markets and Galleries

Browse authentic Namibian crafts, artwork, and souvenirs at the busy local markets and galleries throughout Windhoek. The Namibia Craft Centre and Post Street Mall offer excellent selections of traditional Himba jewelry, wood carvings, and contemporary Namibian art.

Booking Tip: Markets are typically open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm. Bargaining is acceptable at outdoor markets but not in formal galleries. Budget N$100-500 for quality crafts, with higher-end pieces costing N$1000+.

Traditional Namibian Cuisine

Sample authentic Namibian dishes including game meat, traditional breads, and local specialties at restaurants and food markets. Try kudu, springbok, or ostrich meat paired with traditional sides like pap (maize porridge) and morogo (wild spinach).

Booking Tip: Restaurant meals range from N$80-300 per person. Make reservations for upscale restaurants, especially on weekends. Look for restaurants that source ingredients locally and offer game meat options for the most real feel.

Day Trip to the Khomas Hochland

Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Khomas Hochland plateau surrounding Windhoek, featuring dramatic landscapes, wildlife viewing opportunities, and traditional farming communities. The area offers excellent hiking trails and photography opportunities with sweeping views of the central Namibian highlands.

Booking Tip: Self-drive rental cars cost N$400-800 per day. Guided tours range from N$800-1500 per person. Best visited during dry season (May-October). Ensure your vehicle has good ground clearance for rural roads.

Sunset Views from Parliament Gardens

Enjoy spectacular sunset views over Windhoek from various elevated points around Parliament Gardens and nearby areas. The peaceful residential streets and small parks provide perfect vantage points for watching the sun set over the Khomas Highland mountains.

Booking Tip: Free activity best enjoyed between 5:30-7:00pm depending on season. Bring water and light snacks. Some of the best viewpoints are accessible by short walks from the main residential areas.

Getting There

Parliament Gardens is easily accessible as part of Windhoek, which is served by Hosea Kutako International Airport located about 45 kilometers east of the city. Airport shuttles, rental cars, and taxis provide transportation to the city center, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes and costing N$300-500 for a taxi or N$150 for shuttle services. Most visitors arrive by air, though overland travel from South Africa via the Trans-Kalahari Highway is also popular for those with more time.

Getting Around

Parliament Gardens and greater Windhoek are best explored by car, with rental vehicles widely available from international and local companies at rates of N$300-800 per day. Taxis are readily available but should be arranged through hotels or reputable companies for safety. Walking is pleasant within Parliament Gardens itself due to the quiet residential streets, though distances to major attractions may require transportation. Local buses serve main routes but are less convenient for tourists.

Where to Stay

Parliament Gardens residential area
Klein Windhoek
Windhoek Central
Eros neighborhood
Olympia suburb
Dorado Park area

Food & Dining

Windhoek's dining scene offers an excellent mix of German, Afrikaans, and international cuisine, with many restaurants featuring locally-sourced game meats and traditional African dishes. The city center and Klein Windhoek areas host the highest concentration of quality restaurants, from casual bistros serving schnitzel and local beer to upscale establishments offering kudu steaks and South African wines. Local markets and street food vendors provide affordable options for traditional dishes like kapana (grilled meat) and fat cakes, while several German-style breweries and beer gardens maintain the city's colonial culinary heritage.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Windhoek

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Goodfellas Pizza and Pub

4.5 /5
(704 reviews) 2
bar

Cassia Thai Restaurant

4.6 /5
(232 reviews)

Hennie's Windhoek

4.6 /5
(224 reviews)

The Handle Bar

4.6 /5
(106 reviews)
bar

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Parliament Gardens and Windhoek is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are mild (15-25°C), rainfall is minimal, and wildlife viewing is optimal. The winter months of June through August offer the most comfortable weather with cool nights and warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months (November-March) bring higher temperatures and occasional rainfall, but also lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, making it a good option for budget travelers who don't mind occasional afternoon thunderstorms.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at banks rather than hotels for better rates, and always carry some cash as many local establishments don't accept cards
Book accommodations well in advance during peak season (June-September) as Windhoek has limited hotel capacity
Rent a 4WD vehicle if planning day trips outside the city, as many scenic routes require higher ground clearance

Activities in Parliament Gardens