About Galton House
Every desert, whether of sand or concrete, needs an oasis and Galton House fits the bill.
After a day travelling across Namibia’s great plains or weaving through Windhoek traffic, Galton House is a cool sanctuary of minimalist, state-of-the-art décor.
The old capital still bears traces of its German colonial past, and its newest kid on the block is like a time portal into the modern era. Think Scandi-cool in Africa, this is a smart boutique hotel in all but name.
Situated in a quiet, affluent suburb a few minutes from the city centre, its complex of nine rooms with a small pool is an interior designer's daydream of wood, glass and marble enlivened by canvas prints of striking wildlife photography and indigenous tribes.
The open-plan lounge is an invitation to relax with a book, and with friendly staff on hand to cook up amazing dishes served in the open-plan dining area, there's no need to head into town for dinner.
Since we're now back in the 21st century, high-speed WiFi, satellite TV and air conditioning are standard. After a long flight or day's sightseeing, there are few modern oases more welcome.
Our view
We were impressed by the simple and friendly yet stylish ambience on our most recent visit to Galton House. Its location is within easy driving distance of the city centre, shops and restaurants, whilst also offering a secluded feel on the outskirts of suburbia. We'd recommend Galton House as a comfortable and well-run overnight stop in Windhoek before or after your Namibia safari.
Accommodation
8 rooms & 1 suite
Children
Fine for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
Cultural excursion
Traveller reviews of Galton House
188 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 2 Nov 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 9 Oct 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 22 Oct 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 4 Oct 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 23 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 3 Oct 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 21 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 6 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 17 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 24 Sep 2024, 1 nights
"Galton House review"
Overall rating: Good














Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the trips. See our 39 pictures of Galton House to get the candid view.
View galleryTrips visiting Galton House
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


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Pelican Fly & Drive Safari
10 days • 5 locations • 1 country
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A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.
Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 3 other areas
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Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari
14 days • 7 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
An offbeat Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the epic Fish River Canyon and fascinating Kolmanskop ghost town in the south, before turning north via the classic highlights of Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Damaraland.
Visiting Luderitz & Aus, Fish River Canyon and 5 other areas
US$3,540 - US$3,750 per person


Hoopoe Fly-in Safari
11 days • 4 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This relaxed fly-in safari reveals Namibia at its best. Generous timings and a wide choice of activities help travellers to enjoy the best of the country’s most spectacular areas.
Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 2 other areas
US$8,100 - US$10,460 per person
Galton House: Our full report
Galton House, named after the early explorer Sir Francis Galton, is just ten minutes' drive from central Windhoek.
A modern yet homely guesthouse, with a backdrop of rolling hills, it was opened in the residential suburb of Eros in 2011. There's a mix of comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces in which to relax and the convenience of an in-house restaurant that caters for all meals.
From the outside, Galton House blends in with its suburban neighbours. Entered through a remote-controlled gate is a cobbled parking area in front of a relatively plain façade. Wide steps lead into the main building where the smart cream interior and cool slate floors are brightened by feature walls, colourful accents and striking photographic artwork of Namibia. There's a foyer with curio shop and reception, opening out to a spacious lounge area. The décor is fresh and uncluttered with contemporary furnishings and a selection of coffee-table books. Off the lounge is an open-plan indoor dining room, which is open to residence for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and where you’ll also find a marble-topped kitchen space with a tea/coffee station.
Large glass doors provide plenty of natural light and lead out to a sheltered al-fresco dining space to one side, and a small courtyard with water feature on the other. Ceiling fans help keep these areas cool during summer.
Steps access the upper terrace where a small swimming pool, sunloungers and shade umbrellas provide a peaceful place to unwind. There's also a changing room and shower facility here, where guests may freshen up if they're arriving on an early-morning flight, or departing in the late afternoon.
Galton house was a wonderful start to our trip around Namibia in April 2024. After a long flight, the spacious rooms and comfortable beds were a perfect welcome.
The nine en-suite guest rooms at are located off the upper terrace, lower courtyard and parking area. They vary in size, with four double (king-size beds) rooms, three twins and two-family rooms. All have air conditioning, satellite television, a desk, complimentary WiFi, telephone, hairdryer, safe and international power sockets, as well as an en-suite bathroom with shower. The décor matches the rest of the guesthouse with cream walls, photographic artwork and a different colour theme for each room.
The two family rooms are quite different. The larger of the two, also referred to as the pool suite, has one double bed and one single, perfect for a younger family. It is also the only room to have a bath. The second family room, which is perhaps better suited for a family with older children, is found off the parking area. It can be used as separate double and twin rooms, or the interleading door can be unlocked to turn it into a family unit.
Geographics
- Location
- Windhoek, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- For pre- or post-safari accommodation in Windhoek, we’d recommend one night at Galton House.
- Directions
- Galton House is located about ten minutes’ drive from the city centre, 20 minutes from the domestic Eros Airport or 45 minutes from Windhoek International Airport.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Galton House’s in-house restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with both indoor and outdoor dining areas to choose from. When we visited in April 2024, the food was absolutely delicious.
Breakfast combines a continental buffet with a variety of cooked options made to order.
An à la carte lunch is offered on request.
The set Dinner menu is updated daily. In April 2024 I enjoyed a delicious three-course meal, accompanied by homemade bread. After a refreshing grilled peach salad served with a honey-citrus vinaigrette, the main course was a perfectly cooked game steak with butternut squash and pumpkin seeds, risotto with green beans and pesto with parmesan shavings. For dessert we had Amarula pannacotta with candied popcorn - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- On request
- Drinks included
- Drinks are available at extra cost, including a good selection of wines as well as bottled water, soft drinks, beer and spirits. These can be ordered throughout the day from the guesthouse waiting staff.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Galton House.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions here.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- Galton House has two en-suite family rooms. One sleeps a family of four with twin beds, two single beds; the other sleeps a family of three with a twin/double and one single bed. A cot, highchair and baby bath can be provided on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes, Galton House is well equipped for children and has two family rooms.
- Notes
- Children should be under parental supervision at all times, especially by the pool.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are international power sockets in all the rooms.
- Communications
- There is a central telephone (landline) and excellent cellphone coverage. Complimentary WiFi is available in the main area and in the guest rooms – a voucher with an internet access number is available from reception.
- TV & radio
- There’s a satellite television in each room.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- The showers are plumbed, the toilets are flush and there is plenty of hot water.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The guesthouse manager is trained in first aid and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept on site. Good medical centres and hospitals are located very close by.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Galton House is fenced with secure off-street parking and a remote-controlled entrance gate. A security guard is on site over night.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are kept in the common areas of the guesthouse.
Activities
Cultural excursion
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available at extra cost, with items returned within 24 hours.
- Money
- There’s a safe provided in each room.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payments may be made by credit card (MasterCard, Visa, Diners and American Express) and in cash (Namibian dollars and South African rand).
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Galton House's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Galton House.
Excursions from Galton House
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Galton House. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Windhoek City Tour
three hour Windhoek City Tour
Windhoek city tours offer a mix of history, culture, and local flavour, showcasing Namibia’s colonial landmarks, vibrant markets, and cuisine.
More about Windhoek City TourOther lodges in Windhoek
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Elegant Guesthouse
The Elegant Guesthouse is a friendly, comfortable establishment with a lovely, tranquil garden, and is a good choice for an overnight stay in Windhoek.

River Crossing
Secluded on a private game reserve between Windhoek and the international airport, River Crossing is a tranquil place to start or end a trip.

Villa Violet
Villa Violet is a friendly, owner-run guesthouse in a residential area of Windhoek, just a few minutes' drive from the city centre and numerous restaurants.

Haus Sonneneck
Haus Sonneneck was one of Windhoek's best pensions just a few minutes' drive away from the city centre, however it has now closed.

Weinberg Hotel
In a quiet upmarket suburb of Klein Windhoek, the stylish Weinberg has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and luxury facilities.

Olive Exclusive
The Olive Exclusive is perhaps Windhoek's most luxurious boutique hotel but remains a friendly and unpretentious place to stay.

GocheGanas
For somewhere to really pamper yourself, Gocheganas Lodge & Spa offers wildlife combined with extensive wellness treatments.

Heinitzburg Hotel
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Etango Ranch G. Farm
Etango offers simple, clean, comfortable accommodation and it’s the closest accommodation to Windhoek International Airport.

Immanuel Wilderness
Within easy reach of Windhoek, Immanuel Wilderness Lodge is a good overnight option for those who don't wish to stay in the city.

Sun Karros Daan Viljoen
Situated within the Daan Viljoen Nature reserve Sun Karros is a simple lodge with gentle game viewing and bird watching opportunities.

Omaanda
Omaanda offers luxury accommodation and wildlife viewing within easy reach of the international airport and Windhoek City.

Hotel Thule
Windhoek’s Hotel Pension Thule offers stunning views across the city and a reputable in-house restaurant, within easy reach of the international airport.
When to go to Windhoek
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Galton House in Windhoek
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namibia in January
January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.
Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
- Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
- Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
- Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namibia in February
February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.
Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
- The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namibia in March
March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.
Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
- Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namibia in April
Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.
With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.
- Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
- Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
- Migrant birds have started to leave
- Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namibia in May
By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.
May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.
- Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
- The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
- Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
- Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
- Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namibia in June
Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.
Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.
Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.
- Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
- Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
- “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
- Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
- Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namibia in July
Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.
As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).
- Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
- Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
- The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Namibia in August
August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.
It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.
Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.
- Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
- Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
- Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namibia in September
September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.
In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.
- One of the best months for wildlife viewing
- Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
- Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
- Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
- High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namibia in October
Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.
In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.
- Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
- Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
- The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
- It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
- Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namibia in November
November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.
Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.
- A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
- With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
- Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
- Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
- Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namibia in December
December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!
Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.
Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.
- Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
- Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
- A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
- Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
- Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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