Swakopmund

Swakopmund

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert, Swakopmund is a must-visit destination for all visitors to Namibia. With a laidback charm, historical sights, German colonial architecture, excellent restaurants and beer houses, as well as fantastic guesthouses and hotels, Swakopmund will charm you to the point where you wish you had booked longer to stay.

Without question or doubt, Swakopmund is up there in the top 5 towns to experience in the whole of Africa.

Swakopmund Facts

  • Size: Approximately 120km²
  • When to visit the park: Year-round
  • Rainfall: Less than 15mm per annum, fog occurs and can reach as far as 140km inland
  • Altitude: Sea level
  • Location: Central West coast of Namibia
  • Accommodation: Swakopmund Hotels

Information On Swakopmund

Swakopmund, Namibia's second-largest city (town) and is the premier holiday destination of Namibia. During the December holiday season, the cool Namibian coast offers relief from the interior's intense heat, and thousands of Namibians flock to the coast.

The beautiful historical buildings in Swakopmund are a must-see, and these include the Old Provincial Court, the lighthouse, the museum and many beautiful townhouses. Walking the streets with a camera in hand can offer up excellent urban photography opportunities.

The Atlantic Ocean is usually too cold for swimming, although the water temperatures do become a bit more tolerable in summer.

For the adventure activity lovers, Swakopmund offers sandboarding, quad biking, dune carting, parachuting, hot air ballooning, shark fishing, deep-sea fishing and beach angling, to name but a few. The locals have an exciting mix of backgrounds, and there is no shortage of nightlife.

Where is Swakopmund located?

Just metres away from the Atlantic Ocean on the central west coast of Namibia is the town of Swakopmund, Namibia's most popular holiday destination by far.

  • Swakopmund to Windhoek = 352km
  • Swakopmund to Walvisbay = 43km
  • Swakopmund to the Spitzkoppe = 152km
  • Swakopmund to Etosha National Park = 492km

For a Google Map with Swakopmund street views, click on this link: Google Maps - Swakopmund

Best Time to Visit Swakopmund?

Swakopmund is a year-round destination; even in summer, the cold Atlantic Ocean keeps the town nice and cool. So even if the surrounding inland desert is well over 40 degrees celsius, Swakopmund is still nice a cool. In winter, a jersey or jacket is definitely needed.

For those wanting to spend a few hours sun tanning on the beaches, we would have to recommend summer for that, but otherwise, it does not matter what time of the year when you visit is heat is a concern.

If you are looking for a quiet time in Swakopmund, try to avoid the busy seasons of June and December, Namibian school holidays.

Main Attractions Of Swakopmund

  • Prime holiday destination
  • Excellent base from which to explore other parts of Namibia
  • Spectacular German Architecture
  • Excellent restaurants and bars
  • Beach fishing
  • Day tours into the Namib
  • Cape Cross
  • Walvisbay is excellent for birding
Namibia Travel Information
Namibia Lodges
Safaris In Namibia
Namibian Lodges Showcased
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Swakopmund Boutique Hotels And Guesthouses Map
Popular Namibia Lodges
  • Palmwag Lodge

    Palmwag Lodge, without a doubt, stands as one of Namibia’s most iconic and sought-after tourist destinations. Nestled among rustling palm trees and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this lodge offers an idyllic escape in the heart of the vast 450,000-hectare Palmwag Concession.

    The wildlife in and around this private Damaraland concession and Palmwag Lodge is nothing short of extraordinary. From towering desert-adapted elephants to elusive predators and a wide variety of plains game, the experience is one of rich biodiversity.

  • Ongava Tented Camp

    Ongava Tented Camp, located along the southern edge of Etosha National Park in the private Ongava Game Reserve, is a premier safari destination. Featuring a blend of stone, canvas, and thatch, the camp offers an intimate experience with accommodation for just 16 guests in elegant Meru-style tents.

    The camp provides excellent game viewing and guided safari drives, immersing guests in the stunning wilderness of the reserve. Ongava is one of Etosha's top lodges, offering luxury, exclusivity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters for a remarkable safari experience.

  • Etosha Safari Camp

    Nestled on the edge of Etosha National Park, Etosha Safari Camp offers travellers an inviting gateway to one of Namibia's most treasured wildlife sanctuaries. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the savannah, the camp combines the spirit of adventure with the comforts of modern accommodation.

    Etosha Safari Camp combines African charm with warm hospitality. Located near the Etosha National Park, guests enjoy easy access to self-drive game drives, along with amenities like a swimming pool and open-air dining.

  • Le Mirage Resort & Spa

    Nestled in the heart of the captivating Namib, Le Mirage Resort & Spa offers an unparalleled retreat where luxury and nature harmoniously converge. With its striking architecture resembling a castle, the Resort provides a unique escape, blending opulent comfort with stark beauty.

    Guests are greeted by the endless golden dunes and vast open skies that create a serene and magical setting, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. This extraordinary destination promises an experience unlike any other, where every moment is steeped in tranquillity and wonder.

  • Fish River Lodge

    Nestled on the dramatic edge of the world's second-largest canyon, The Fish River Lodge offers a truly unforgettable Namibian escape. Located in the heart of the Fish River Canyon region, the lodge combines breathtaking natural beauty with exceptional comfort.

    With panoramic views and minimalist architecture that blends into the rugged landscape, it invites guests to connect with nature in serene elegance. Its location is ideal for exploring one of Southern Africa's most remarkable geological wonders.

  • The Weinberg Windhoek

    The Gondwana Weinberg Windhoek, in the heart of Namibia's Windhoek region, combines luxury, comfort, and convenience for an unforgettable stay. This boutique hotel offers a serene escape with modern design, elegant decor, and warm Namibian hospitality.

    Whether you're embarking on a safari, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, The Gondwana Weinberg Windhoek serves as the perfect haven to begin your exploration.