October 7 2023
Swakopmund travel guide - perfect guide for what to see and do
Welcome to our detailed Swakopmund travel guide, the perfect guide to a captivating coastal gem nestled in the heart of Namibia! This charming town, renowned for its fusion of German colonial architecture and African charm, is famous for being where the desert meets the ocean, creating a captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure.
Located on the western edge of Namibia about 350 kilometres from Windhoek, Swakopmund sits at the meeting point of the vast Namib Desert and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Its unique geographical setting will provide you with stunning vistas of rolling sand dunes on one side and crashing waves on the other. This makes Swakopmund a haven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Swakopmund has some of the best things to do in Namibia on offer. The region caters to diverse interests. From its unique architecture such as the Swakopmund Railway Station and the Woermannhaus, to vibrant markets, or adrenaline-pumping activities like sand boarding and quad biking. If you’re a wildlife enthusiasts, you can take safaris to encounter the region’s desert-adapted creatures. Otherwise, a short stroll through the charming streets, lined with quaint cafes and boutiques, provides a delightful glimpse into Swakopmund’s cultural fusion.
No Swakopmund travel guide is complete without mentioning Walvis Bay
Just a short distance away lies Walvis Bay, known for its diverse birdlife, flamingo colonies and thrilling experiences like dolphin cruises and kayaking among playful seals. Together, these coastal havens offer a gateway to explore the Namib Desert’s pristine beaches, towering dunes, and the unique marine ecosystem of the Atlantic coast.
Swakopmund and Walvis Bay offer an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter your travel style. Now let’s get into our detailed Swakopmund travel guide!
If you’re looking for more Namibia inspiration, we have a detailed 2-week road trip itinerary, a comprehensive guide to visiting Sossusvlei and an entire post dedicated to the top 12 best things to see and do in Namibia. You’ll likely need your own vehicle to get around, so we’ve also put together a comprehensive guide to hiring a car in Namibia.
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In this article - swakopmund travel guide
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Highlights mapHighlights map
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Best time to visitBest time to visit
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How to get to Swakopmund & Walvis BayHow to get to Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
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Best things to do in Swakopmund & Walvis BayBest things to do in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
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How much time to spend thereHow much time to spend there
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Where to eatWhere to eat
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Where to stayWhere to stay
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Extra tips for your visitExtra tips for your visit
Highlights map for Swakopmund travel guide
Swakopmund travel guide - Best time to visit
The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season. This typically runs from May to October (winter). This period offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. Perfect weather for outdoor activities such as the quad biking, sand boarding, and water activities on offer in this region. The weather is more moderate at this time of year as well. There are cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings, making it comfortable for exploring the diverse landscapes of Namibia. You’ll certainly appreciate the cooler weather if you’re camping. There is nothing worse than roasting in a tent as soon as the sun rises!
It’s worth noting that popular destinations can get crowded during the peak months of July and August. We would recommend booking your accommodation and activities in Swakopmund well in advance if you’re planning on visiting during these busy months. We went in June and the weather, and fairly small crowds, were absolutely perfect.
If you’re averse to crowds, the months of November to April offer a chance to witness migratory bird species and the vibrant bloom of desert flowers. Camping at this time of year probably won’t be ideal however as it will be quite warm (this is summer in Namibia).
Expect pink lakes and huge flamingo colonies on your visit to Swakopmund
Swakopmund travel guide - How to get to there
Swakopmund is a popular destination in Namibia. It can be reached in a variety of ways depending on where you’re coming from and how much time you have. We think that Namibia is the ultimate road trip country. So if you’re visiting Swakopmund and Walvis Bay as part of a larger trip, we strongly recommend that you hire a car to get around. Hiring a vehicle will give you the greatest flexibility and allow you to experience Swakopmund at your own pace.
Swakopmund travel guide – arriving by Air
The nearest international airport to Swakopmund is Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. From the airport, you can take a domestic flight to Walvis Bay Airport. This is the closest airport to Swakopmund, located about 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) away. Several airlines offer flights between Windhoek and Walvis Bay. From Walvis Bay, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach Swakopmund, which is approximately a 30 minute drive.
Swakopmund travel guide – arriving by car
Swakopmund is well-connected by road, and many people choose to drive here as part of a larger trip around Namibia. From Windhoek, you can take the B2 highway (also known as the Trans-Kalahari Highway) west towards Swakopmund. The drive takes around 4 hours (360 km / 224 miles), depending on road conditions and stops along the way. The roads are generally in good condition. They are paved the entire way making it a scenic, straightforward, and comfortable journey. Walvis Bay is right next to Swakopmund.
It is not recommended that you drive at night. In fact most car rental companies won’t allow you to. Plus your insurance won’t cover you after sunset. So if you’re planning on driving from Windhoek we suggest that you leave no later than lunch to be able to make it before sun down.
Wildlife of Swakopmund! We saw this beautiful jackal on our way out to Sandwich Harbour along with orxy, flamingoes and tonnes of other birdlife. The unique, translucent gecko on the left can be seen on a quad bike tour, where the guide will find Namibia’s ‘Little 5’
We’ve included distances and travel times for some other popular locations you may be traveling from to reach Swakopmund:
- Spitzkoppe: 1 hr 56 min (161 km / 100 miles)
- Etosha National Park: 5 hr 10 min (500 km / 310 miles)
- Sossusvlei: 5 hr 8 min (406 km / 252 miles)
- Fish River Canyon: 10 hr 43 min (910 km / 568 miles)
- Keetmanshoop: 8 hr 20 min (763 km / 474 miles)
- Luderitz: 9 hr 20 min (798 km / 495 miles)
Swakopmund travel guide – arriving by bus
Several bus companies offer services from Windhoek to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. This offers a more budget-friendly option compared to flying or driving yourself. The journey by bus takes around 4 hours. A popular bus company that does this route is Welwitschia Shuttle who depart once a day from Windhoek. They can even pick you up from the airport if required. Some bus companies also operate services from other major towns in Namibia to Swakopmund. Once you arrive in Swakopmund, you can easily explore the town on foot or use taxis, rental cars, or organised tours to visit nearby attractions.
Swakopmund travel guide – arriving by train
Although less common, there is also a train service operated by TransNamib that connects Windhoek to Swakopmund called the Desert Express. This train service was suspended during Covid and has not resumed service as of 2023. Tourism is picking up strongly however. So it’s likely only a matter of time before it’s up and running again.
Swakopmund travel guide - Best things to see and do
Marvel at the flamingo colonies
There are a few places to see flamingos in Walvis Bay:
- The Bird Sanctuary
- The Flamingo Lagoon at the esplanade
- Out at the pink lakes
- Or on your drive into the desert as part of your Sandwich Harbour tour.
There are two species of flamingos in Walvis Bay. These are the Greater Flamingos (taller and whiter) and Lesser Flamingos (shorter and pinker).
We would suggest you skip the Bird Sanctuary. It’s located between a literal tip and a mining operation. You also have to park on the side of a very busy road with large trucks passing carrying mining equipment. The sanctuary is in a sad state. The birds are literally walking through trash and standing in polluted water.
Instead we suggest you head to the esplanade. The best time to see flamingos is apparently between December and March. However, the number of flamingos we saw at the esplanade in June was amazing! They are very close to the shore here so you’ll get a great view. The flamingos out at the pink lake are more sparse, but they’re definitely there. Our favourite spot to see flamingos was in the more natural area in the desert behind the salt works on our way out to Sandwich Harbour. The area is much more unspoilt than in town (obviously). And it was idyllic to see the flamingos in the small little waterholes against the backdrop of the desert.
Dune 7
Dune 7 is a huge sand dune located in Walvis Bay, not far from the Bird Sanctuary. Rising to a height of about 383 meters (1,257 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest sand dunes in the world. Its name, “Dune 7,” comes from its status as the seventh dune located along the coastal strip of Namibia. Dune 7 attracts visitors due to its towering height that offers you panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscapes and the Atlantic Ocean. The summit is a popular spot for sunset, if you’re up for the challenging climb. Make sure you wear enclosed shoes if you want to climb the dune. Although it can be tempting to wear sandals because of the warm temperatures in Namibia, the sand can be very hot and may burn your feet.
You will find car guards here who will expect you to pay them to ‘mind’ your vehicle. This spot is known to be a little unsafe after dark so make sure you head back to the car as soon as the sun sets.
If you want to see more impressive dunes in the Namib Desert, then you should definitely check out Sossusvlei. Nestled within the Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia (the oldest desert in the world!), Sossusvlei is a mesmerising desert destination that will leave you in awe. It is a place of towering red sand dunes, stark white clay pans, and contrasting bright blue skies.
Take a day trip to Spitzkoppe
Consider taking a day trip to the majestic Spitzkoppe National Park, a striking granite peak that rises dramatically from the vast Namibian landscape. Known as the “Matterhorn of Namibia,” Spitzkoppe is an iconic landmark that is a must see on any Namibian road trip. Its towering presence, unique rock formations, and rugged beauty make it a haven for climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. You can spend some time exploring the labyrinth of rock formations, discover ancient San rock art, and witness the MOST breathtaking sunsets that paint the surrounding plains in hues of gold, purple and pink. You can enjoy everything on offer at Spitzkoppe in a day and it is conveniently located only 2 hours from Swakopmund, or 2 and a half hours from Walvis Bay.
Take a whale or dolphin cruise
Flamingoes aren’t the only wildlife at Walvis Bay, this area is also incredibly popular for marine animal sightings including the ‘big 5’; whales, dolphins, sunfish, leatherback turtles and seals. There are plenty of tour operators leaving from the waterfront offering a variety of activities including kayaking, sunset sails, bird watching or whale watching tours. The best season for whale watching is from July to November with most sightings towards the end of that timeframe in October to November. All other marine life you will likely see year-round.
Visit the pink lake
At Walvis Bay, the “pink lakes” refer to a series of salt pans and lagoons that display a stunning pinkish hue. The most famous of these pink lakes is at the Walvis Bay Salt Works, where the phenomenon of pink water occurs due to the presence of microorganisms, particularly a type of salt-loving algae known as Dunaliella salina.
During certain times of the year, when environmental conditions are favourable, these microorganisms thrive in the highly saline water, resulting in a spectacular display of pink. The pink colour is caused by the production of carotenoid pigments by the algae, which intensifies when they are exposed to sunlight so aim to visit in the middle of the day for the brightest colouring.
The striking contrast of the pink hues of the lake, against the bright blue sky and the backdrop of the desert makes it a great stop for photography. The best time to witness the vibrant pink colour is typically during the dry season (winter, from June to August) when the water levels are lower, and the salt concentration is higher, allowing the microorganisms to flourish.
Sandwich Harbour – where the ocean meets the desert
Now this is what most people come to Walvis Bay for, and it wouldn’t be a Swakopmund travel guide without mentioning it (Walvis Bay is half an hour up the road from Swakopmund). Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, Sandwich Harbour is a photographer’s dream. This remote and untouched coastal paradise offers a captivating blend of towering dunes, sparkling lagoons, and abundant birdlife. Accessible only by 4×4 vehicles or boat, Sandwich Harbour provides a thrilling off-road journey through the shifting sands and rugged terrain of the Namib Desert. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of massive dunes cascading into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop for the pristine lagoon. Sandwich Harbour is an oasis of natural beauty, where the convergence of desert and ocean creates an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
We opted for a sunset photography tour with Sandwich Harbour 4×4 Adventures that left from Walvis Bay. Our guide Mossie was fantastic. Mossie spotted a tonne of wildlife on our way out, took us to a totally unique viewpoint over Sandwich Harbour (that had only become accessible a few months earlier), and put out a delish spread of local finger food including oysters and champagne as the sun went down over the dunes. This is a must do activity. We have never seen such a unique landscape and had so much fun 4WD’ing out into the desert.
Drive up the Skeleton Coast
Stretching along the rugged shores north of Swakopmund, the Skeleton Coast is a hauntingly beautiful destination that captivates the imagination. Its name derives from the shipwrecks that dot the coastline. Amidst this desolate landscape is the renowned Cape Cross Seal Colony, home to thousands of Cape fur seals.
We never expected seals to sound so ridiculous, or smell so bad. In peak season there are hundreds of thousands of seals here (breeding season is in November to December). While there weren’t quite so many when we visited there were still an astounding number of seals frolicking in the water and racing along the beach. As soon as you drive in you’ll already see a number of them lounging on the rocks bordering the car park. Be careful not to get too close, they are wild animals and will lash out if you disturb them. There is a little board walk along the top of the beach that gives you a great view down onto the colony at the water’s edge.
Expect to drive for about 1.5 hours each way to reach the seal colony as it is 130km from Swakopmund to Cape Cross. You can visit between 10am and 5pm daily. We have read that it’s not really worth driving further north into the Skeleton Coast as it can get fairly monotonous.
Take an quad biking tour
If you’re up for another adventure activity then consider taking a quad biking tour through the desert. These guided tours allow you to navigate the captivating desert landscapes on powerful, all-terrain quad bikes. Expert guides lead the way, ensuring your safety while sharing their knowledge about the desert’s unique ecosystem. We got to see all of the ‘Little 5’ that we never would have seen on our own, including the translucent web-footed gecko, the wheel spider (the one that cartwheels down dunes), the namaqua chameleon, the shovel-snouted lizard, and the side-winder puff adder (the fastest snake in the world). Our guides knew exactly where to look and how to find them all, we were so impressed.
Along the journey, you will take in the breathtaking views of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, which create a stunning backdrop for your adventure. You’ll also get the chance to sand board down enormous dunes on freshly waxed boards.
We took this quad biking living dunes tour and would highly recommend it. They collect you from where you’re staying, which means you won’t have to worry about packing up your tent first thing in the morning if you’re camping. The early slot from 8-11am is preferable to increase your chances of seeing the little animals. However, be aware that you will most likely be surrounded by mist which is almost a daily occurrence in the mornings in this coastal region.
Swakopmund travel guide - How much time do you need
Both Walvis Bay and Swakopmund offer a range of attractions and experiences, so here are some guidelines to help you decide:
Walvis Bay
If you’re primarily interested in marine tours, kayaking, boat cruises, and birdwatching, 1 to 2 days will be sufficient. If you want to explore the nearby sand dunes and experience desert adventures, consider adding an extra day to your stay. However it is possible to take a kayaking tour in the morning, and a sunset tour to Sandwich Harbour allowing you to complete both activities in a day.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund has a variety of desert activities, including dune boarding, quad biking, and desert safaris. Plan for at least 2 days to enjoy these activities and explore the surrounding dunes and attractions such as Cape Cross. If you’re interested in the town’s cultural attractions, such as exploring the architecture, and trying local cuisine, an additional day may be beneficial.
Combined Stay (recommended for this Swakopmund travel guide)
If you want to experience both the marine attractions in Walvis Bay and the desert adventures in Swakopmund, a total stay of 2 to 3 days for both towns is sufficient. Both Walvis Bay and Swakopmund are popular tourist destinations, and they offer a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Many people find that a few days in this area allows for a more leisurely pace, and it is a good opportunity to take some down time here as part of a larger Namibia road trip itinerary. If you’re a bit tight on time, and you aren’t interested in doing multiple tours you can get away with seeing most things in 1 full day / 2 nights.
Swakopmund travel guide - Where to eat
Both Swakopmund and Walvis Bay offer a variety of local cuisine, including incredible seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of Namibia’s unique dishes, such as fresh oysters, grilled fish, and game meat.
Swakopmund is the perfect location for dinner at some beautiful establishments overlooking the powerful Atlantic Ocean. We tried both Jetty 1905 and The Tug and loved both restaurants. The Tug offers a daily shuttle service for dinner which is very convenient and worth taking advantage off to avoid having to deal with the ‘car guards’ in town. Jetty 1905 would probably be our favourite though. It’s a gorgeous restaurant sitting above the water at the end of the jetty (you can actually feel the ocean swaying the building), the prices were great, the service was the best we experienced in Namibia, and the food was unbelievable.
We also made it to Brewer & Butcher in Swakopmund for a quick beer one afternoon and wished we’d had more time to relax there trying some of the local craft beers. It’s tucked away in a pretty corner of town overlooking a swimming beach.
In Walvis Bay, try Rojo Pub and Restaurant at The Walvis Bay Yacht Club, The Raft Restaurant or Anchors Waterfront Restaurant, all serving delicious seafood (and other dishes if you’re not into seafood), while overlooking the picturesque lagoon.
View from The Tug, Swakopmund
Swakopmund travel guide - Where to stay
You can choose to stay in either Swakopmund or Walvis Bay, as they’re only half an hour away from each other. We chose Swakopmund as it looked like a prettier town and we wanted to try some of the restaurants on the jetty. Walvis Bay definitely felt more industrial. However, we didn’t spend too much time there other than to see the flamingo colonies and to start our Sandwich Harbour tour.
Swakopmund
In general, we suggest you stay in Swakopmund if you prefer:
Urban atmosphere
Swakopmund has a more vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with a mix of colonial and modern architecture, trendy cafes, and shops. It’s a popular tourist destination with a wide range of accommodation options, lovely restaurants, and craft breweries.
Proximity to desert activities
Swakopmund is closer to popular desert activities like dune boarding, quad biking, and desert safaris. If you’re interested in exploring the nearby sand dunes and desert landscapes, staying in Swakopmund is more convenient. Most of these activities can pick you up from your accommodation in Swakopmund, however they won’t collect you from Walvis Bay.
Beach and ocean views
Swakopmund is located right on the coast, offering beautiful beachfront views and the opportunity to enjoy seaside activities like walking along the promenade or relaxing on the beach.
If you do decide to stay in Swakopmund, we would highly recommend Alte Brücke Resort. We camped here for 3 nights and really enjoyed our time. Not only are the campsites grass, which feels like a luxury compared to most camp grounds in Namibia which are sand, dirt or stone, but they’re also very private and spacious. The large bathroom and patio area were very comfortable, there’s a big fire pit, and you can fall asleep to the sound of the ocean if you grab a spot down near the west fence line. The compound is fully secure with security posted at the gate also. We paid 480 NAD for two people per night. For those not camping, you’ll find room options here too.
There is wildlife absolutely everywhere. Check out this beautiful jackal eating a flamingo, and an oryx walking along the base of a dune
Walvis Bay
Alternatively, stay in Walvis Bay if you prefer:
Water-based activities
Walvis Bay is known for its lagoon, which is home to diverse birdlife and pink flamingos. The town is a hub for water-based activities such as boat cruises, kayaking, and dolphin watching tours. If you’re interested in marine experiences, staying in Walvis Bay might be more suitable. Walvis Bay is also closer to Sandwich Harbour and most tours will depart from here.
Quieter atmosphere
Walvis Bay has a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to Swakopmund. This makes it ideal for travelers seeking a quieter and less touristy environment.
Scenic Beauty
The Walvis Bay area offers stunning views of the ocean, dunes, and wildlife. If you enjoy nature and wildlife photography, Walvis Bay can be an excellent base to explore these natural wonders.
Heads up: Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are much cooler than the rest of Namibia. This is due to a unique environment from to the coastal atmosphere butting right up against the desert heat. Every morning when we were camping in this area we woke up soaked due to the condensation in the tent. We had to dry out our bedding each day. We were fortunate to be staying in a place where we could leave our bedding out while we did day trips.
Swakopmund travel guide - Extra tips for your visit
Stock up on groceries here
One of our biggest tips in this Swakopmund travel guide is to make sure you stock up on groceries during your visit. There aren’t many options for supermarkets outside of major towns and cities. Plus you’ll pay a premium to shop at the small stores at popular stops such as Spitzkoppe and Etosha.
Avoid walking
Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are considered to be relatively safe towns. However, use common sense and avoid taking valuables with you when you’re walking around and don’t go into isolated areas at night. These cities have a higher number of car guards that expect payment for watching your car. Don’t expect them to still be there at the end of the night once you’ve finished dinner though. You should never leave anything in your vehicle where it can be seen. Valuable or not, anything visible in your car could entice car break ins.
Expect different weather here compared to the rest of Namibia
The weather can be very unpredictable in Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. This is due to the position of this coastal town against the Namib Desert. Be prepared with layers for cold mornings and sun protection for the day. If you’re camping, be aware that it can be very damp overnight. You will likely wake up with dew inside of the tent that can saturate your bedding. We had this happen every night we were there. We were able to dry everything out during the day time. However, it wasn’t very comfortable to wake up to. If we were going to stay in a hotel anywhere, in hindsight it would have been here only to avoid the damp.
Book tours in advance!
If you’re interested in taking any tours, make sure you book well in advance. This is especially true during peak months such as June to September. The same goes for accommodation and restaurants. Like most attractions in Namibia, a little planning ahead of time will ensure that you aren’t disappointed by lack of availability on arrival.
Thanks for stopping by!
We hope we’ve helped you plan your visit to this beautiful part of Namibia with our Swakopmund travel guide.
If you’re looking for more Namibia inspiration, we have a detailed 2-week road trip itinerary, a comprehensive guide to visiting Sossusvlei and an entire post dedicated to the top 12 best things to see and do in Namibia.
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