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

Hotel Eberwein

Hotel Eberwein in Swakopmund is within easy reach of sporting facilities like golf, tennis, parachuting, horse and camel riding, as well as the natural attractions of its dramatic desert environment.

A classic hotel in Swakopmund with all rooms are furnished in the Victorian style.
Hotel Eberwein
Namib Desert Lodge

Nestled at the base of the ancient, fossilized dunes of the Namib, Namib Desert Lodge is a must-visit destination—and it’s easy to see why. The lodge offers a family-friendly swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring the stunning desert landscape.

With 50 en-suite rooms, each featuring a private veranda, you’ll have the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the breathtaking sunset over the dunes. It’s an experience that combines comfort with the rugged charm of one of Africa’s most iconic deserts.
Namib Desert Lodge
Etosha Mountain Lodge

Etosha Mountain Lodge is a unique and exclusive safari retreat, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the bushveld. Surrounded by a rich diversity of wildlife and vibrant birdlife, the lodge provides stunning 180-degree views, ensuring an unforgettable and truly unique stay.

Activities at Etosha Heights Game Reserve are designed to excite and inspire. From rhino tracking to guided game drives, every experience is thoughtfully crafted. For a closer connection to nature, bush walks provide an amazing way to explore the reserve on foot.
Etosha Mountain Lodge
Kalahari Anib Lodge

Kalahari Anib Lodge is the ideal destination from which to explore and experience all that the surrounding Kalahari has to offer.

Located with the Anib Kalahari Private Game Reserve, game drives and sunset drives are part and parcel of one's stay.

Kalahari Anib Lodge is located between Windhoek and the attractions in the south of Namibia, including the Fish River, Kgalagadi and the Southern Namib.
Kalahari Anib Lodge
Atlantic Villa Guesthouse

Atlantic Villa Guesthouse is situated at Vogelstrand, Swakopmund, approximately 6 km from the town centre.

The magnificent Atlantic Villa has breathtaking sea views of Swakopmund and is only a short walk away from the Atlantic Ocean.
Atlantic Villa Guesthouse
Little Kulala

Little Kulala, the crown jewel of Namibia's stunning Sossusvlei region, has long been a magnet for discerning travellers. Renowned for its impeccable facilities, warm hospitality, and unbeatable location near the iconic towering dunes, it offers a truly exceptional experience.

With its luxurious accommodations and thoughtful design, Little Kulala seamlessly blends comfort with the breathtaking beauty of its natural surroundings, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking both adventure and indulgence.
Little Kulala