Windhoek Railway Station is an elegant historical building situated in the very heart of the capital of Namibia. Built in the early 20th century, the station combines features of colonial architecture with the functionality of the country's main transport hub, operated by TransNamib.
Despite its modest size compared to major international hubs, the station possesses a distinct charm and serves as the departure point for the famous Desert Express tourist train. It is easy for passengers to navigate here: the building features a simple layout with a central entrance and direct access to the platforms.
Address: Bahnhof Street, Windhoek Central, Windhoek, Namibia
Inquiry phone: +264 61 298 1111 (TransNamib head office)
Opening hours: Ticket counters are usually open on weekdays from 08:00 to 16:30, as well as immediately prior to the departure of passenger trains.
Accessibility: The building entrance and access to the first platform are located on the same level, which is convenient for passengers with luggage and people with reduced mobility.
How to Get There
Getting to Windhoek Railway Station is straightforward, as it is located in the city's central business district. If you are staying in the centre, for example near Zoo Park or on Independence Avenue, you can reach the station on foot in 5–10 minutes.
For journeys from more distant areas, it is best to use an official taxi. Public transport in the city is not widely developed and can be challenging for tourists, so a taxi remains the most reliable option. A trip from most hotels within the city limits will take no more than 10–15 minutes.
Services and Amenities
A basic set of services is provided on the station premises. The main building houses a waiting hall with seating where one can take shelter from the sun. Ticket counters are operational, where travel documents for regular StarLine trains and tourist expresses can be purchased.
Restrooms are available to passengers; however, please note that there are no shower cabins or specialized nursing rooms here. There are no automatic lockers; luggage storage questions are best addressed to the duty staff. Wi-Fi is generally not provided on the station grounds.
Where to Eat
Directly inside the station building, the choice of establishments is extremely limited; often one can only find small kiosks selling water and light snacks. There are no full-fledged food courts at the station.
However, thanks to the central location, finding food is easy. Just a few minutes' walk away, on Bahnhof Street and the adjacent Independence Avenue, there are various cafes and restaurants. For quality coffee or a lunch, you can visit the establishments at the Hilton Windhoek hotel, which is located practically across the road.
Station History
The history of Windhoek Railway Station dates back to the era of German colonial rule. The first building was erected in 1912, and in 1929 it was expanded with the addition of a northern wing in the same architectural style.
The building is a fine example of the Wilhelminian style with Art Nouveau elements. Today, it is not only an active transport facility but also an important historical monument, serving as a reminder of the development of the railway network in South West Africa. The building also houses a small TransNamib transport museum.
Passenger Tips
Passenger transport in Namibia has its own specifics. Regular StarLine trains are often mixed consists that move slowly and make many stops. Be sure to take a supply of water and food for the journey. If you are travelling on the luxurious Desert Express, the level of service and comfort will correspond to a high class.
Regarding safety: the station area is quite calm during the day, but after dark, one should remain vigilant and avoid waiting outside alone. Always keep your luggage under supervision. It is recommended to purchase train tickets personally at the ticket counter in advance, as the schedule may change.
