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
  • Olive Grove Guesthouse

    TThe Olive Grove Guesthouse in Windhoek is a stylish retreat in a quiet suburb, close to the city center. It offers a perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with free Wi-Fi and a relaxing swimming pool and outdoor area.

    Its location is ideal, just a short walk from the renowned Joe's Beer Garden, making it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and convenience. Olive Grove is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape with amenities that guarantee a memorable stay in Windhoek.

  • Wolwedans Boulders Camp

    Nestled deep within the breathtaking NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans Boulders Camp is a sanctuary of tranquillity and luxury. Surrounded by the dramatic beauty of giant granite boulders and endless desert plains, the camp offers guests an exclusive opportunity to connect with the untamed wilderness.

    Boulders Camp is the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. With only a few carefully designed tents, the camp offers unmatched privacy, ideal for escaping the ordinary. Guests can enjoy guided walks, scenic drives, and serene moments in the stunning desert.

  • Chobe Princesses Houseboats

    An unforgettable safari experience unlike any other awaits aboard the three luxurious "Chobe Princess." These exceptional houseboats offer a unique way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wildlife of the Chobe River.

    Imagine spotting majestic elephants, graceful antelope, and countless bird species right from the comfort of the boat's deck or venturing out on expertly guided game drives for an even closer encounter with nature.

  • Desert Horse Inn

    Desert Horse Inn is a spectacular base for exploring the captivating southern Namib Desert. It offers the perfect gateway for a day trip to Lüderitz, the iconic ghost town of Kolmanskop, or the rare chance to spot the elusive desert horses.

    Whether you choose to embark on thrilling mountain biking and walking excursions or simply soak in the serene beauty of this unique desert landscape, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. Discover an extraordinary side of the Namib that will leave you in awe.

  • Etosha King Nehale

    Located on the edge of Etosha National Park, Etosha King Nehale Lodge offers a memorable escape into Namibia's stunning wildlife and landscapes. Overlooking plains and waterholes visited by majestic animals, this Lodge combines tranquillity and adventure, perfect for a honeymoon or getaway.

    Blending modern luxury with traditional Namibian design, the Lodge features spacious suites with all the comforts for a relaxing stay. Each suite immerses guests in the surrounding beauty with private plunge pools and décor inspired by the region's rich culture.

  • Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge

    Nestled in Namibia's stunning Kalahari Desert, Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge offers an unforgettable safari experience. The lodge combines adventure and comfort, letting guests explore red sand dunes, golden savannahs, and vibrant wildlife.

    Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the Kalahari Desert. Enjoy guided game drives; nature walks, or peaceful sundowner excursions to see wildlife like springboks, oryx, and birds of prey up close.