Windhoek Rediscovered

I grew to love mountains. Born and raised in the Omaheke region of Namibia, I was accustomed to flat, sandy plains and thorny vegetation. Apart from family holiday trips to the coast with its frigid Atlantic depths and wind-whipped dunes, this pretty much encapsulated what I knew and understood of landscape, and, of the world.

Traveling abroad for the first time at nineteen, I was immediately introduced to scenery far more mountainous and tropical compared to the lonesome desert spaces of Namibia. Ranges, ridges; snowy summits. Sprawling cities, gardens fringed with banana and avocado trees – pedestrians spilling over into crowded streets. These impressions drew sharp contrasts compared to the measured sparseness of suburban Windhoek!

After nearly a decade dotted by frequent overseas travels, I found myself unexpectedly settling in Windhoek. It has signified a slow process of reacquaintance with a city I hardly knew before.

Naturally, I gravitate towards scouring the local topography for the existence of some, well, substantial geographical altitude. Much to my delight, Windhoek is surrounded by a ring of hills (namely the Khomas Highland, Auas and Eros mountains), which has in recent years been developed for cyclists and avid hikers eager to escape the daily grind.

Yellowstone Trails – a farm on the outskirts of Windhoek, affords the nature-loving urban dweller such an opportunity. Established in 2022, Yellowstone Trails is a family and pet friendly farm behind Avis Dam in Ludwigsdorf.

Originally a canine training and tracking unit, the farm quickly expanded and now offers a surprising array of diverse outdoor activities. These include an outdoor gym and karate studio; an archery shooting range, go karting and horse riding.

Yellowstone`s expansive scenic routes are ideal for hiking, running, mountain biking and even dirt bike adventures.

My personal favourite: the farm`s clearly marked paths, often winding through the hills with a cluster of thorn trees perched on rugged peaks, and a flight of swallows sweeping overhead. If you`re not much of a hiker – no need to fret! These trails are easily accessible and suited for every fitness level. Yellowstone Trails also offers guided and educational group hikes on weekends for anyone curious about our ecosystem.

Yes, I know what you are thinking. Nature is wonderful, but what about...coffee? Beer?! Glad you asked! Located right on the farm`s property sits Das Bos - a restaurant and beer garden, serving drinks and mouth-watering food. For those with little ones there is a petting zoo and playground, conveniently located next to Das Bos so parents can still keep a watchful eye.

It`s perfect for slumping into the shade after a strenuous morning hike – or if you simply want to kick back with friends after a long week.

I wonder where to next with an acquired affinity for mountains and good coffee? Join me as I trek through Windhoek`s new, emerging trails. Pleased to meet you, Windhoek – as if for the first time.

Madeleen Duvenhage

Important info:

• Entrance fee - N$20 per person.

• Opening hours - Gates open at 6am and close at 7pm.

• Attire - Wear comfortable hiking shoes as trails can be uneven/rocky.