(173 rooms) Gustav Voigts Centre, 129 Independence Av, PO Box 2254; tel: 061 2800000; fax: 061 222260; email: ksands@sunint.co.za
Dominating the city's skyline in the centre of Independence Avenue, the Kalahari Sands Hotel is a large hotel owned by the Sun International group. Escalators whisk you through the shopping arcade below and into its lobby, which is pretty much like the lobby of any other four-star hotel.

The rooms are above the lobby, reached by one of several lifts, so most have good views of the city. All are carpeted and well-furnished, with air conditioning, direct-dial phones, Mnet TV, and en-suite toilet, bath and shower. Twin beds, or a king-size double, are the norm. Facilities include the Dunes restaurant, Oasis bar, Sands Casino, a small gym and a rooftop pool. Generally regarded as Windhoek's best hotel, the Kalahari Sands lacks character and feels like a good Sheraton. That said, it works well and is convenient for walks around the centre of town.