Swakopmund

Geology And Climate Of Swakopmund

Swakopmund is located in the Erongo Region on the western coast of the country, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is situated about 352 kilometres (219 miles) west of the capital city, Windhoek. The town is located at the mouth of the Swakop River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Swakopmund covers an area of approximately 196 square kilometres (76 square miles) and has a population of around 50,000 people.

The city is characterized by a desert climate, with cool temperatures and low rainfall throughout the year. The surrounding area is dominated by the Namib Desert, which is considered one of the oldest deserts in the world.

History of Swakopmund

Swakopmund was founded by German colonists in 1892 in what was then known as German South West Africa. It quickly became an important port and administrative centre, as well as a popular destination for German tourists. During World War I, the town was captured by South African forces and remained part of South West Africa, which was administered by South Africa under a League of Nations mandate.

Swakopmund continued to develop throughout the 20th century and, after Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990, became part of the newly formed Republic of Namibia. Today, the town remains an important centre for tourism, commerce, and administration.

When to visit Swakopmund

Swakopmund is a coastal town in Namibia, known for its German colonial architecture, adventure Things To Do In Namibia, and natural beauty. Here is a month-by-month breakdown of the weather and events in Swakopmund that you should know before coming on Swakopmund Tours.

January-

The weather is hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 26°C (79°F). This is a great time to enjoy water activities like surfing, kayaking, and swimming.

February-

The weather is similar to January, with temperatures slightly increasing towards the end of the month. February is a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

March-

The weather starts to cool down, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 23°C (73°F). March is a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby desert.

April-

The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 21°C (70°F). April is a good time for wildlife sightings and bird watching.

May-

The weather starts to get colder, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 19°C (66°F). May is a good time for whale watching and dolphin watching.

June-

The weather is cool, with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 17°C (63°F). June is a good time for desert excursions and stargazing.

July-

 The weather is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 16°C (61°F). July is a good time for indoor activities like visiting museums and galleries.

August-

The weather is similar to July, with temperatures starting to increase towards the end of the month. August is a good time for surfing and kiteboarding.

September-

The weather starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 20°C (68°F). September is a good time for adventure activities like sandboarding and quad biking.

October-

The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 23°C (73°F). October is a good time for exploring the nearby national parks and wildlife reserves.

November-

The weather starts to get hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 26°C (79°F). November is a good time for water sports and beach activities.

December-

The weather is hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F). December is a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

In a nutshell, the Best Time To Visit Swakopmund is May to September, which is the winter season in Swakopmund.

For a quick understanding, take a look at the following table.

Getting to Swakopmund

Getting to Swakopmund is easy. There are two different ways of getting to this city, one is by air and the other is by road. If you’re planning Swakopmund Tour, we suggest you choose the air option, it’s easy and convenient, especially for international travellers.

By air

The town has its own airport, Swakopmund Airport (SWP), which serves domestic flights from Windhoek and other major cities in Namibia. The closest international airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek, which is approximately 350 kilometres (217 miles) away.

By Road

Swakopmund is also connected to the rest of Namibia by a well-maintained network of roads. The B2 highway runs through the town, connecting it to Windhoek and other major cities in the country. There are also regular bus services that operate between Swakopmund and other towns and cities in Namibia.

Wildlife in and around Swakopmund

Swakopmund is located in a desert environment, and while it is not known for its wildlife, there are still some interesting animal species that you can find during your Swakopmund Safaris.

One notable species is the desert-adapted elephant, which can be found in the northern parts of the Namib Desert, including the region around Swakopmund. These elephants have adapted to living in a harsh environment with limited water and food resources.

Other animals that can be found in the region include oryx, springbok, Hartmann's mountain zebra, and the elusive brown hyena. The birdlife in the area is also diverse, with species such as ostriches, flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants being found along the coast.

In addition to the wildlife in the surrounding desert, there are also several nature reserves and parks near Swakopmund where visitors can see a variety of animals.

The nearby Dorob National Park is home to a variety of desert-adapted wildlife, including gemsbok, springbok, and the black-backed jackal. The Cape Cross Seal Reserve, located about 120 kilometres (75 miles) north of Swakopmund, is home to one of the largest breeding colonies of Cape fur seals in the world.

Here is a table for your quick understanding -

People and Culture in Swakopmund

Swakopmund is a vibrant coastal city in Namibia that is rich in culture and history. The city's population of approximately 50,000 people is a diverse mix of different ethnic groups, including the Herero, Damara, Nama, and the German community. This cultural diversity is evident in the city's architecture, cuisine, music, and festivals.

The Herero people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Namibia and are known for their colourful traditional attire and strong cultural traditions. The Damara people are known for their unique music and dance, while the Nama people are known for their distinct language and cultural practices. The German community is also a significant cultural influence on the city, with their colonial legacy evident in the city's buildings and cuisine.

Swakopmund is also known for its vibrant arts and music scene. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Swakopmund Arts Festival and the Namibian Music Awards, which celebrate local artists and musicians as well as showcase international performers.

If you’re on Swakopmund Tours, you can witness the following cultural festivals

Swakopmund Arts Festival

 This festival celebrates local art, music, and culture through a series of exhibitions, concerts, and performances. The festival is held annually in August and attracts visitors from all over Namibia and beyond.

Namibian Music Awards

 This annual event celebrates Namibia's best musicians and performers across a range of genres. The awards ceremony is a highly anticipated event in the Namibian music scene, with winners selected by a panel of industry experts and fan votes.

Oktoberfest

 This festival is a celebration of German culture and tradition, with live music, traditional food and drinks, and a range of cultural activities. The festival is held annually in October and attracts visitors from around the world.

Swakopmund Christmas Market

 This festive market is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike during the holiday season. The market features a range of handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and holiday-themed activities and entertainment.

Annual Horse Racing Event

This is a highly anticipated event in the Swakopmund calendar. The annual horse racing event draws thousands of visitors from across Namibia and features a range of activities, including horse racing, live music, and traditional food and drink.

Food in Swakopmund

Visitors on the Swakopmund Day Tour will find that the food in Swakopmund is a unique blend of traditional Namibian cuisine and German influences, reflecting the city's colonial past. Seafood is a popular choice, with fresh fish, lobster, and oysters widely available. Game meat, such as kudu and springbok, is also a common feature on menus.

German-style dishes, such as schnitzel and sausages, are popular options, as are local specialties like kapana (grilled beef) and mopane worms. The city also boasts a range of cafes, bakeries, and coffee shops, serving up a variety of sweet treats and pastries.

Adventures Activities in Swakopmund

With so many adventure activities to choose from, visitors to Swakopmund Tours are sure to find something that suits their interests and adrenaline levels. Here we have mentioned some popular ones

Sandboarding

Swakopmund is surrounded by sand dunes, making it an ideal location for sandboarding. Visitors can experience the thrill of sliding down the dunes on a sandboard, with several companies offering guided tours and equipment rental.

Skydiving

 Swakopmund is known as one of the best locations in the world for skydiving, with its stunning coastal scenery and clear skies providing the perfect backdrop for a thrilling jump.

Quad biking

 Quad biking is a popular way to explore the desert landscapes around Swakopmund. Guided tours take visitors on a thrilling ride over the sand dunes and through the rugged terrain.

Kayaking and boat tours

Visitors can explore the coastal waters of Swakopmund by taking a kayak tour or a boat ride. These tours offer the chance to see dolphins, seals, and other marine life up close.

Camel riding

Camel riding is a unique way to experience the desert landscapes around Swakopmund. Guided tours take visitors on a leisurely ride through the sand dunes, providing a peaceful and scenic experience.

Scuba diving

Swakopmund is home to several shipwrecks, making it a popular location for scuba diving. Divers can explore the wrecks and see a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish.

Fishing

The coastal waters of Swakopmund are home to a variety of fish, including kabeljou, yellowtail, and snoek. Visitors can go on fishing tours to try their luck and catch their own fish.

Hiking and walking tours

Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Swakopmund on foot by taking hiking or walking tours. Guided tours take visitors through the sand dunes, along the beach, and through the city's historic neighborhoods.

Paragliding

Paragliding is another thrilling adventure activity that visitors can enjoy in Swakopmund. The city's coastal location and unique landscape make it a perfect location for paragliding.

Horse riding

Horse riding tours take visitors through the desert landscapes around Swakopmund, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. Some tours also offer the chance to see wildlife, such as zebras and oryx.

Here's a table summarizing the adventure activities in Swakopmund

Attractions in and Around Swakopmund

Swakopmund is a beautiful coastal town, around this city there are many places you can visit during Swakopmund Tour. Below, we have mentioned some of the most visited attractions-

Swakopmund Museum

The Swakopmund Museum displays the history of the town, including the Namibian culture, the German colonial area, end the natural history of the region. This museum was founded in 1651 by Dr. Alfons Weber.

Swakopmund Jetty

Swakopmund Jetty is a great place to visit on your Swakopmund Tours. Here you can go for fishing and a sublime view of the Atlantic Ocean. Swakopmund Jetty was constructed between 1904 and 1905.

Kristall Galerie

Kristall Galerie was founded in 1998 and it’s a museum of crystals and gemstones that showcase unique specimens from Namibia and other parts of the world.

Things to Do in Swakopmund

Being known for its stunning beaches, and German colonial architecture, Things To Do In Namibia, here’re are some of them -

Camel ride

Visitors to Swakopmund Safari can go on a camel ride along the beach or in the desert dunes near Swakopmund. The cost of a camel ride in Swakopmund is $150 for 20 minutes.

Living Desert Tour

A unique guided tour that takes visitors to explore the desert and its diverse flora and fauna including chameleons, geckos, and other creatures that have adapted to survive in such harsh conditions.

Dolphins and Sea Cruise

Visitors can explore the desert dunes on a quad bike, a thrilling adventure that offers spectacular views of the landscape.

Go for shopping

Swakopmund has many local shops and markets where visitors can buy souvenirs, jewellery, and traditional crafts.

Visit the Lighthous

The Swakopmund Lighthouse is a landmark of the town. From the top, you can observe how beautiful this coastal city looks.

Explore the Skeleton coast

The Skeleton Coast is known for its shipwrecks and eerie landscapes. You can take a scenic flight or drive along this coast.

Go on a quad-biking adventure

Visitors can explore the sand dunes and desert landscapes on a quad biking tour.

Taste the traditional Namibian Food

Swakopmund has a variety of restaurants serving traditional Namibian Cuisine such as game meat and seafood.

Where to Stay in Swakopmund

Swakopmund offers a wide range of accommodation options from luxury guest houses to affordable lodges and hotels. You can choose to stay in the following hotel and lodges while on your Tours in Swakopmund.

Egumbo Lodge

Visitors looking for luxury accommodation can stay in the Egnumbo Lodge. This lodge features exclusive accommodation in 9 rooms. Each room has a flat-screen television and espresso coffee machines.

Hansa Hotel

Hansa Hotel in Swakopmund offers you the finest and most luxurious accommodations in five different rooms for suites and 49 twin rooms. This hotel has also 2 restaurants and a main dining room.

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre offer 90 stylish rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a variety of dining options, a fitness center and a casino.

Here, visitors can enjoy activities like dune boarding, quad biking, and dolphins’ cruises.

Hotel Eberwein

Hotel Eberwein features 17 rooms with tv, minibars, and underfloor heating. Each room has en-suite bathrooms and a garden courtyard.

Where to Stay in Swakopmund

Swakopmund offers a wide range of accommodation options from luxury guest houses to affordable lodges and hotels. You can choose to stay in the following hotel and lodges while on your Tours in Swakopmund.

Egumbo Lodge

Visitors looking for luxury accommodation can stay in the Egnumbo Lodge. This lodge features exclusive accommodation in 9 rooms. Each room has a flat-screen television and espresso coffee machines.

Hansa Hotel

Hansa Hotel in Swakopmund offers you the finest and most luxurious accommodations in five different rooms for suites and 49 twin rooms. This hotel has also 2 restaurants and a main dining room.

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre offer 90 stylish rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a variety of dining options, a fitness center and a casino.

Here, visitors can enjoy activities like dune boarding, quad biking, and dolphins’ cruises.

Hotel Eberwein

Hotel Eberwein features 17 rooms with tv, minibars, and underfloor heating. Each room has en-suite bathrooms and a garden courtyard.

Where to Stay in Swakopmund

Swakopmund offers a wide range of accommodation options from luxury guest houses to affordable lodges and hotels. You can choose to stay in the following hotel and lodges while on your Tours in Swakopmund.

Egumbo Lodge

Visitors looking for luxury accommodation can stay in the Egnumbo Lodge. This lodge features exclusive accommodation in 9 rooms. Each room has a flat-screen television and espresso coffee machines.

Hansa Hotel

Hansa Hotel in Swakopmund offers you the finest and most luxurious accommodations in five different rooms for suites and 49 twin rooms. This hotel has also 2 restaurants and a main dining room.

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre offer 90 stylish rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a variety of dining options, a fitness center and a casino.

Here, visitors can enjoy activities like dune boarding, quad biking, and dolphins’ cruises.

Hotel Eberwein

Hotel Eberwein features 17 rooms with tv, minibars, and underfloor heating. Each room has en-suite bathrooms and a garden courtyard.

Comprehensive Travel Requirements For Swakopmund

If you are planning your next Tours in Swakopmund, here are some comprehensive Namibia Travel Requirements you should keep in mind:

• Passport: You must have a valid passport to enter Namibia. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Namibia. Some countries are exempt from visa requirements, while others can obtain a visa on arrival or must apply for a visa in advance.
• Vaccinations: There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Namibia, but it is recommended that you have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever. Depending on your travel plans and activities, other vaccinations or preventative measures may be recommended.
• Travel Insurance: It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip.
• Currency: The currency in Namibia is the Namibian dollar (NAD), but the South African rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted. You can exchange currency at banks or bureaus de change in Swakopmund.
• Climate: Swakopmund has a mild desert climate, with cool temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is from March to November when the weather is cooler and drier.
• Transportation: Swakopmund has a small airport that serves domestic flights, but most travellers arrive by car or bus from Windhoek or other cities in Namibia. There are also taxis and car rental options available in Swakopmund.
• Accommodation: Swakopmund has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Safety: Swakopmund is a safe and friendly town, but it is still important to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding walking alone at night.

Final Words on Swakopmund

Swakopmund is worth visiting, this coastal town has everything that you expect from a beach holiday destination. Whether you relax on its pristine beaches or take a stroll around its historic colonial building, or just enjoy surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, you will be overwhelmed by seeing what the city truly offers. If you’re planning where to spend your next holiday, then think about Swakopmund. And, if you’re already on Namibia Safaris, make some days for this city too, besides exploring other destinations.

To know more about, Swakopmund Tours, stay in touch with our guides.