Set on Namibia's Atlantic coast at the edge of the Namib Desert, it is a town of stark differences. Early mornings and evenings in Swakopmund can be cold throughout the year, as the cold Atlantic Ocean meeting the Namib Desert creates a fog bank.
Approaching via the roads from Windhoek, Walvis Bay or the Skeleton Coast - passing by towering dunes - you are greeted by striking sights of Bavarian church spires, palm lined streets, seaside promenades and german inspired architecture. There are a variety of guesthouses and hotels in Swakopmund as well as some well known restaurants.
One of the town's most iconic landmarks is the Swakopmund jetty that has recently been restored and boasts a small restaurant and bar area, the Jetty 1905 restaurant. Another favourite restaurant is the Tug Restaurant which is a small beachfront restaurant that has been built around a real tug boat.
German Influence
The town is also famous for its German-themed architecture and culture - many locals speak German and during October there is even a beer festival. Enjoy traditional German pastries, German beer and a schnitzel in restaurants such as the Swakopmund Brauhaus. A real feeling of continental German life in this desert town...Things to Do in Swakopmund
Just outside of town, there are several adventure activities near Swakopmund that include sand boarding, quad biking, camel rides and skydiving. A visit to the Cape Cross Seal Colony is worth a day visit where you can get a taste of the Skeleton Coast. Swakopmund Saltworks or the Walvis Bay Lagoon is a must for bird enthusiasts as in season you are sure to see thousands of flamingos.
The Welwitschia drive is a must for keen botanists and introduces you to the fauna and flora of the Namib Desert. Go in search for the giant Welwitschia Mirabilis - and extraordinary plant that is estimated to be over 2 000 years old.
Stopver in Swakopmund
Swakopmund is a popular stopover for a few nights during a self-drive holiday to Namibia. It is the perfect place to get some rest between visiting the dunes of Sossusvlei in the south and the Damaraland in the north.We recommend at least a minimum of 3 nights in Swakopmund and can easily be combined with several other Namibia highlights. Anything is possible. Contact our Destination Specialists to tailor make your dream Namibia holiday to suit your individual needs and budget.
The coastal town of Swakopmund is the adventure capital of Namibia. Various Swakopmund adventure activities, from sandboarding to quad bikin...
Stay at Swakopmund Hotels to enjoy all the attractions of this delightful Bavarian-style town in Namibia situated snugly between sea and des...