I love visiting the coastal city of Swakopmund. It is located on the western coast of Namibia, about 45 kilometers north of Walvis Bay. It is one of the largest cities in Namibia and is partially surrounded by desert.
You will be spoilt for choice in this seaside resort. destination What makes Swakopmund unique is that it you can go from desert to coast in a matter of minutes. The city boasts an array of activities for all ages and interests.
Traces of the old Harbour:
Swakopmund was the main port in the area during the colonial period. The jetty and historic landmark, which was nearly taken back by the seas, can still be enjoyed by all, after its restoration a few years back! There are restaurants housed within the jetty buildings. We had dinner at the famous Jetty restaurant and landmark not too be missed in Swakopmund. It is perfect for a romantic dinner as you can watch the sunset from your table.
The original working Lighthouse is still a well know landmark in Swakopmund. The original version was built in 1903. The light can be seen 33 kilometers into sea and saved many a ship from the treacherous Skeleton Coast.
German Historical Heritage:
Swakopmund is rich in Architectural history, which date back to the late 1880’s. There are still signs of colonialist architecture, with its German styled buildings in the city centre. Many of the buildings are still standing and today. These include the Old Prison, the Hohenzollern Building, Woermannhaus and the Lighthouse. A small part of locals in the town still speak German, when I closed my eyes for a second, I could be in Germany.
German influence in Swakopmund:
The German influence is not only found in the architecture, but in the food as well. Local stores sell traditional German delicacies including bread, meats, cheeses, beers and sweet treats. You even find German imported household items in certain supermarkets, like the local Spar and the German Grocer.
Chocolate:
Where do I begin? They stock some Lindt and other brands found in Germany. I even found this Christmas chocolate in the past, which I normally only found in Germany. Variety of Lindt which you find in Europe can be found at the local Spar. Needless to say, I stocked up on Swiss and German chocolate.
Activities in and around Swakopmund:
You can choose from an array of activities in this city, where it be strolls on the beach, going on a boat trip or something more adventurous. The adventurous activities include quad biking, sand boarding on the local sand dunes, camel rides, boat cruises, hot air ballooning over the desert, just to name a few. For a different experience of Swakopmund and the natural landscapes it has to offer, take to the skies and see the beauty unfold as you rise above the city. There are flights available from Swakopmund to the famous Sossusvlei.
Attractions close by:
Dune 7 is the highest dune in Namibia. It is located close to Walvis Bay International Airport. Be sure to climb the dune early morning or late afternoon as it gets very hot during the day.
Looking for otherworldly landscapes, then this moon landscape is not too be missed. It is only about 30 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund. Namibia is filled with areas of unusual natural beauty and this landscape was one that stood out for me.
Goanikontes Oasis and rest camp is located within the moonscape area. Visiting an oasis in the middle of the desert is a bit surreal. It is green, lush and a completely unexpected find in the desert!
Spitzkoppe is one of the most striking rock spires in Namibia. It is located on the road between Namibia and Windhoek. Unfortunately we did not have enough time to visit this natural wonder and have added it to our bucket list for the next visit!
Until next time:
Swakopmund has become one of my favourite cities to visit and whenever I travel to Namibia and I always try to spend a few days here if I can. Until next time, Adventure awaits.
Kim
How to get to Swakopmund:
Fly to Walvis Bay International Airport, which is the closest airport, or Windhoek airport as an alternative. It is approximately a 40 minute drive from Walvis Bay International Airport to Swakopmund.
Where I stayed:
I stayed at the Swakopmund Sands Hotel. The hotel is located close to the beach and is perfect for strolls to the jetty and exploring the beachfront.