Private taxis

In and around Windhoek it's usually best to walk, as everything is central and close together. If you need a taxi then Windhoek Radio Taxis, at 452 Independence Avenue (near the Grab-a-Phone kiosk and bus terminal), is the largest taxi company (tel: 237070). Alternatively White Rhino Taxi (tel: 221029) is small but very reliable. Others include, Prime Radio Taxis (tel: 272307) and Express Taxis (tel: 239739). It's not a good idea to hail a taxi on the street, particularly for women on their own. In general, agree the fare before you take the taxi.

For independent drivers, using cellphones, it's best to ask your hotel or pension to suggest someone reliable. Otherwise, those who can currently be recommended include Elton (Eltons Radio Taxi, tel: 081 2505565), Lito (Kalahari Radio Taxi, tel: 081 249 2522), and A Kasera Radio Taxi (tel: 081 127 0557).

Hired car

Windhoek is extremely easy to navigate, with just a few main roads, good signposting, and surprisingly little traffic, even at so-called 'peak' times of the day. Parking is straightforward, too: there are meters along Independence Avenue and some side roads, costing N$0.50 for 20 minutes near the tourist information office, rising to N$0.50 for just ten minutes as you get nearer to the post office, Parking is free after 18.00 Monday to Friday, or after 13.00 on Saturday. Car guards – easily recognised by their orange or yellow vests – are regularly on duty on main roads. Ask them to keep an eye on your car in return for a tip of around N$1–2 for half a day, or up to N$4 in the evening. How vigilant they are is a matter for guesswork, of course, but their presence affords some sense of protection for your vehicle.

If you're shopping in the centre of town, secure and shady parking is available in the multi-storey car park behind the Kalahari Sands Hotel (turn down Peter Müller/Fidel Castro Street off Independence Avenue, then left again into Stübel Street; the entrance to the car park is on the left). Parking here costs N$2.60 per hour.

Shared taxis and minibuses

Shared taxis do shuttle runs between the centre of town and both Katutura and Khomasdal. These are primarily for workers from the townships, and as such are mostly at the beginning and end of the working day, though some do run at other times. They are crowded and inflexible, but very cheap