Home › Destinations › Tintenpalast
Tintenpalast, Namibia - Things to Do in Tintenpalast

Things to Do in Tintenpalast

Tintenpalast, Namibia - Complete Travel Guide

Tintenpalast, literally meaning 'Ink Palace' in German, serves as Namibia's seat of parliament and government in the capital city of Windhoek. This striking colonial-era building, constructed between 1912-1913 during German South West Africa period, stands as one of Namibia's most significant architectural and political landmarks. The building's distinctive design combines German colonial architecture with practical adaptations for the African climate, featuring beautiful gardens and impressive facades that reflect the country's complex colonial history. While Tintenpalast itself is primarily a government building with limited public access, it sits in the heart of Windhoek's government district, surrounded by other important historical buildings, museums, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the surrounding area to gain insights into Namibian politics, history, and the transition from colonial rule to independence. The building and its environs offer excellent opportunities to understand Namibia's journey as a nation and its current democratic processes.

Top Things to Do in Tintenpalast

Guided Government District Walking Tour

Explore the historic government quarter including exterior views of Tintenpalast and surrounding colonial buildings. Learn about Namibia's political history, independence struggle, and current governmental structure while walking through tree-lined streets filled with significant architecture.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost N$200-400 per person and are best booked through local tour operators or the Windhoek Information Centre. Morning tours (9-11 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Parliament Gardens Photography Session

The beautifully maintained gardens surrounding Tintenpalast provide excellent opportunities for photography and peaceful walks. The landscaped grounds feature indigenous plants and offer great views of the building's architecture against Windhoek's skyline.

Booking Tip: Access is free during daylight hours, but security may restrict movement during parliamentary sessions. Best visited early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

National Museum and Archives Visit

Located nearby in the government district, explore Namibia's comprehensive historical collections including independence documents, colonial artifacts, and cultural exhibits. The archives contain important documents related to the building and functioning of Tintenpalast.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are around N$20 for adults. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 AM-5 PM. Guided tours available for N$50 extra and highly recommended for historical context about the government buildings.

Colonial Architecture Heritage Trail

Follow a self-guided or organized trail through Windhoek's colonial district, examining German-era buildings including Tintenpalast, Alte Feste, and Christuskirche. Learn about architectural styles and their adaptation to local conditions.

Booking Tip: Self-guided maps available free from tourism offices, or join organized tours for N$300-500. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. Tours run year-round but avoid midday heat in summer months.

Independence Memorial Museum Experience

Visit this modern museum located within walking distance of Tintenpalast to understand Namibia's path to independence and current democratic institutions. The museum offers excellent context for understanding the significance of the parliamentary building.

Booking Tip: Entry costs N$30 for adults with discounts for students and groups. Open daily 9 AM-6 PM. Audio guides available in multiple languages for an additional N$40. Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit.

Getting There

Tintenpalast is located in central Windhoek, easily accessible from Hosea Kutako International Airport (45km away) via taxi, shuttle services, or rental car. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and costs N$400-600 by taxi. From within Windhoek, the government district is walkable from most central hotels and can be reached by local taxis or the city's limited public transport system. The building is situated on Robert Mugabe Avenue, one of Windhoek's main thoroughfares.

Getting Around

The government district around Tintenpalast is best explored on foot, as most significant buildings and attractions are within a few blocks of each other. Windhoek's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, though sidewalks can be uneven in places. Local taxis are available for longer distances, and several car rental agencies operate in the city center. The area has limited parking, so walking or using drop-off services is recommended. Security is generally good during daylight hours in this well-patrolled government area.

Where to Stay

City Center/Government District
Klein Windhoek
Windhoek West
Olympia
Eros
Pioneers Park

Food & Dining

The government district and nearby city center offer diverse dining options ranging from traditional Namibian cuisine to international fare. Local restaurants serve game meats like kudu and springbok alongside German-influenced dishes reflecting the colonial heritage. Street food vendors near government buildings offer affordable local snacks and drinks. Upscale restaurants in nearby Klein Windhoek provide fine dining experiences, while traditional beer gardens and cafes around the area serve as popular lunch spots for government workers and tourists alike.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Windhoek

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

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

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tintenpalast and Windhoek is during the dry winter months from May to September, when temperatures are mild (15-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. This period offers clear skies ideal for photography and comfortable conditions for walking tours of the government district. Summer months (October-April) can be very hot with afternoon thunderstorms, though early morning visits are still pleasant. Parliamentary sessions typically run from February to December with breaks, so check the legislative calendar if hoping to see government activity around the building.

Insider Tips

Security around Tintenpalast is tight, so always carry identification and respect photography restrictions near the building itself
The nearby Zoo Park offers a pleasant break from sightseeing and often hosts cultural events and markets on weekends
Visit during weekdays to see the government district at its most active, with parliamentarians and civil servants creating a bustling atmosphere around the building

Explore Activities in Tintenpalast