Travel (before you arrive)
Please familiarise yourself with the entry requirements into Namibia. If a visa is required, It is recommended to apply for a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) visa. Please contact us if you need an official invitation letter.
Transportation (after you arrive)
It is recommended to pre-arrange an airport shuttle, hotel/hostel transfer, or use ride hailing apps like LEFA, Yango, or trusted taxi. Hosea Kutako International Airport is about 45 km from Windhoek, so participants should arrange airport transfer before arrival, especially for evening flights. International participants should confirm pick-up arrangements before arrival and keep the accommodation address ready for the driver, avoiding last-minute transfer arrangements. Aforementioned booking platforms may help compare hotel location, but transport should still be confirmed directly with the hotel.
Note that Windhoek is a safe city; however, regular precautionary measures are advisable, including avoiding walking alone at night, selecting reliable transport modes, and confirming hotel/transfer details before travelling. A handy summary can be found here.
Accommodation
Below you will find some non-exhaustive accommodation options
Tate Village may be particularly suitable for students and early-career participants seeking affordable accommodation. Participants should confirm room type, sharing options, breakfast availability, cancellation terms, and transport arrangements before booking.
Chameleon Backpackers & Guesthouse:
A good option for students and early-career researchers because it offers a mixture of budget rooms, private rooms, and dormitory-style accommodation. It may suit participants who prefer a social and affordable setting.
Windhoek Gardens Boutique Hotel:
Suitable for participants who prefer hotel-style accommodation while still being reasonably close to the conference venue and central Windhoek amenities. This may suit invited speakers, senior participants, or guests who prefer private rooms.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Windhoek Fürstenhof:
Suitable for participants who prefer hotel-style accommodation, international hotel standards, and a more formal setting. It may be suitable for invited guests, senior researchers, or participants whose institutions require hotel accommodation.
Avani, Hilton, and Heinitzburg Hotels:
These options may suit participants who prefer higher-end accommodation or wish to compare a wider range of hotels through public booking platforms. Participants should check distance from the conference venue, price, cancellation policy, and whether breakfast is included.
Sightseeing
Nearby/central options include Independence Memorial Museum, Christuskirche area, Namibia Craft Centre, guided city tours.
Going out
For group/social meals, possible options include Joe’s Beerhouse, The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro, Avani/Hilton-area restaurants, and other central Windhoek restaurants. Group bookings should be made in advance.
Childcare
Please contact the organisers at gfpara@utu.fi in order to coordinate childcare services if needed.