Attraction
Independence Memorial Museum
Free museum in a five-storey glass building on Robert Mugabe Avenue that tells the story of colonial rule, resistance and Namibia's road to independence.
Daan Viljoen Game Park
A 40-square-kilometre game park in the Khomas Hochland hills 24 km west of Windhoek, with hiking trails among zebra, kudu, oryx and around 200 bird species.
At a glance
- Type
- Game reserve
- Area
- Khomas Hochland (24 km west of Windhoek), Windhoek, Namibia
- Official site
- meft.gov.na
Good to know
- Hiking trails
- Rest camp
- Picnic sites
- Birdwatching
Why we recommend it
Daan Viljoen Game Park is the easiest way to see Namibian wildlife without leaving the Windhoek area. It lies in the Khomas Hochland highlands about 24 km west of the city, covers some 40 square kilometres and was proclaimed in 1968, when it was named after the then Administrator, Daan Viljoen. The park is managed under the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, and it makes a good half-day or full-day escape from town, or a gentle introduction before a longer safari.
The park's big attraction is that you can explore it on foot. The ministry lists springbok, kudu, eland, oryx, blue wildebeest and Hartmann's mountain zebra, along with leopard and klipspringer, which are much harder to spot. Birders come for the roughly 200 recorded species, including Rüppell's parrot, white-tailed shrike and Monteiro's hornbill, alongside many more common highland species. The landscape is rolling highland shrubland with acacias, kudu bush and buffalo-thorn.
Two day trails of about 3 km and 9 km start from the rest camp area, and there is a longer 32 km overnight route that must be booked in advance. The shorter trail suits families and anyone short of time, while the 9 km walk takes in the hills and gives better chances of seeing game. Early morning is the best time to walk: it is cooler, the light is softer and animals are more active. Carry plenty of water, wear a hat and proper shoes, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife, especially zebra and wildebeest.
The rest camp has bungalows, campsites and picnic areas, and staying overnight lets you enjoy the quiet and the night sky only half an hour from the capital. Day visitors pay an entry fee at the gate; check current fees and gate times with the park or a local operator before you go, as they change from time to time.
You will need a car, taxi or tour to get there; the drive west from the city centre takes around half an hour. Several Windhoek operators run morning hikes and drives in the park if you would rather not drive yourself. Allow at least three hours for a meaningful visit.
Daan Viljoen Game Park FAQs
How far is Daan Viljoen from Windhoek?
It is about 24 km west of the city, roughly half an hour's drive.
What animals can I see?
Springbok, kudu, eland, oryx, blue wildebeest and Hartmann's mountain zebra, with leopard and klipspringer present but rarely seen.
Can you hike in the park?
Yes. There are day trails of about 3 km and 9 km, and a 32 km overnight trail that must be booked.
Is it good for birdwatching?
Yes. Around 200 bird species have been recorded, including Rüppell's parrot and Monteiro's hornbill.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. The park has a rest camp with bungalows, camping and picnic sites.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning, when it is cooler and the animals are most active.
Do I need my own transport?
Yes, or join a tour, as there is no public transport to the park.
How big is the park?
About 40 square kilometres.