Visiting Swakopmund: The Coastal Jewel of Namibia

Swakopmund is a beautiful coastal town in Namibia. Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the expansive Namib Desert, this charming town offers numerous tourist attractions. It is truly a must-see destination for those touring this gorgeous country.

Namibia’s climate is pleasant and mild year-round, so it can be visited any time of the year. May to October is considered the dry season, so if you are planning on observing wildlife, this is the best time to travel as the animals will be gathering around the watering holes.

July to October is considered the high season, so remember to book your car and hotel in Swakopmund well in advance. December to March is Namibia’s wet season. April and May actually experience very little rainfall, and offer rather moderate temperatures.

If you are planning on visiting this darling coastal town, here are ten things you don’t want to miss!

The Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast stretches all the way from Swakopmund to Angola. Sadly, over the years many ships have met their fate along this desolate coastline. The current is very strong, and all along the shore you can actually see the ship remains.

Quad Biking in the Sand Dunes

The sand dunes of the Namib Desert extend for miles in every direction. If you plan on touring this sandy wasteland, the best was is on a quad bike! There are numerous guides that will take care of you, so don’t stress about the safety.

Scenic Flights and Skydiving

The massive sand dunes and the harsh Skeleton Coast are nothing short of spectacular when viewed from the air. This is absolutely the best way to view Swakopmund. Helicopter flight times can vary, and you can choose between many scenery options.

There is also the option of skydiving! If you haven’t been before, the experience is like none other. Even if you are an experienced skydiver, you’ll absolutely have a free-falling experience with never before. Also, skydiving here is incredibly cheap compared to other parts of the world.

The Beach

Locals and tourists alike have a great time taking a quick dip in the ocean or relaxing on the sand. With so many restaurants nearby, it truly is the perfect way to spend your afternoon. Feel free to wander down the boardwalk and find more private spots on the beach if being right in the center of town isn’t what you had in mind.

The Fishing

If you are looking for the freshest seafood in Namibia, you’ll find it in Swakopmund. You cannot leave without trying the local catch! Or even better, you can head to the ocean and catch your own dinner. You can either fish from the beach, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing – which is only offered between October and February.

The Cuisine

You won’t be disappointed by all the different cuisine options offered here. There are so many different restaurants, it might even seem daunting to choose where you want to eat dinner. You’ll find everything from specialty pizzas, to German-inspired cuisine, to everything in- between.

The Craft Market

The outdoor craft market located in the center of the city is an excellent way to find whatever it is you are looking for. There are plenty of traditional works of art from Namibia, so if you want to pick something up to bring home, this is the place.

Guided African Safari Trips

If you are visiting Africa, a safari experience is just something you cannot miss. Many famous safari expeditions are in South Africa, and Swakopmund is no different. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Big 5: the elephant, the lion, the cheetah, the water buffalo, and the soon-to-be-extinct African rhinoceros.

Dolphin and Whale Watching

The South African coastline is known for its plentiful dolphin and whale sightings, making it one of the most popular activities offered in Swakopmund.

The opportunity to see pelicans and feed seals, and the chance of seeing dolphins leaping or whale tails fluttering is one you cannot pass up!

The Woermannhaus

The Woermannhaus is a great example of the city’s history and one of the most stunning buildings in all of Swakopmund. Swakopmund was once a German colony, and there’s still evidence of that today. The Woermannhaus is situated near the Swakopmund Jetty. This museum is actually a preserved colonial house that holds a rather large collection of artifacts.

A large tower overlooks the entire city. Pro tip: if the door to the tower is locked (which isn’t uncommon), all you have to do is ask a security employee for access. You will be allowed to unlock the door and take the 90+ stairs in solitude. Be sure to bring your camera!

Wrap Up

You will not find a lack of things to do in Swakopmund. There are activities and adventures for travelers of all walks of life. Whether you want a heart-stopping skydiving experience or are looking for historic German culture, this city has it all!