Welcome to Swakopmund

Swakopmund is Namibia's playground, a holiday destination for tourists and locals alike looking to escape the heat of the interior and to have a little adventure.

While there's plenty to do within city limits, the real action happens in the desert surrounding Swakopmund. Quad-biking, sand-boarding, sand-skiing, parasailing and dozens of other guided adrenaline inducing activities are available by reservation from many of the adventure companies operating in the area. At Walvis Bay, visitors can join a dolphin cruise or explore the lagoon on a kayak tour.

The Atlantic has never looked better in Swakopmund. Explore its delightful beaches. Stop by the National Marine aquarium to get a first hand look at its sharks and rays. Stong waves by the beach make it perfect for surfing, kiteboarding and sport fishing.

Spot flamingos and Cape cormorants at Bird Island Bay or crank up the fun with some adventure sports in the Namib desert. Other places of interest include: Snake park, Swakopmund museum, Martin Luther (Steam tractor) Museum.

Even with all this excitement Swakopmund serves as a good break during a busy vacation. Relax and have fun in a place well suited for both.

Swakopmund has a mild climate with cool evenings.

Thick coastal fog is predominant with rain missing. Summer (December – January ) is the peak time for inbound travelers

Eating out in Swakop could be quite pricey but there’s always something for everyone. Get a taste of the amazing seafood readily available

Most restaurants are loved by locals and tourists alike for its quirky character and good service.  Go get your share of the food, generous portions, friendly staff and a wonderful atmosphere.

As with other Namibian cities, there is no public transport in Swakopmund. But the city is small enough to get around easily on foot. All the major attractions and facilities are downtown. It's hard to get a taxi in city centre (there are no taxis on a Saturday after 7PM), but once you get one it takes you wherever you want for the same rate as the Windhoek Taxis. 

For children, the snake park is worth a visit - try to visit when the snakes are being fed. There is sandboarding on the dunes. Even young children can partake - they have them sit rather than stand on the boards - tobogganing with an african twist.

English is the official language and is widely spoken. Older Namibians in the South are more likely to speak Afrikaans or German.Afrikaans is spoken by many and is the first language of the Coloureds and the Afrikaners. English is spoken as a first language by the remaining English families, and German is spoken by the Namibians of German descent

The Namibian Dollar (NAD; symbol N$) is in note denominations of N$200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of N$5, N$1, 50 cents, 10 cents and 5 cents. It is linked to the South African Rand (R) on a 1:1 basis (South African Rand = 100 cents). The South African Rand is also acceptable as currency in Namibia.

Swakopmund has only a limited amount of nightlife and entertainment to chose from. tripwolf helps you find the best nightlife and entertainment in Swakopmund and around. 

·         The Tug Restaurant, (at the jetty) - A great seafood restaurant. It is an actual tug with a great view of the sea - reservations are essential.  edit

·         Light House Pub, (Located at the Mole). Try the calamari and seafood dishes, serves pub meals and restaurant. Big room, so nothing if you want to feel homely. 

·         Weinmaus, Poststraße. - Very friendly host. Not many tables, so make a reservation

·         Kückis Pub, Tobias Hainyek -  Warm and enjoyable atmosphere with great service. Limited menu, but interesting dishes (shark steak, etc) and very well prepared. 

·         De Kelder. A little bit hidden, does not look attractive from outside. But everything else is perfect!  edit

·         Tiffanys. Fresh fish, good wine, reasonable prices. The locals eat here

·         GK Restaurant, (at Hotel Gruner Kranz), GK Restaurant-new owners 

·         Kupferpfanne. Game food and good wines

There are many nice shops that sell very attractive souvenirs and art 

Whether you set out on your own self-drive safari or join a group of like-minded travelers, Namibia is Africa's best-kept safari destination secret. In Namibia, you have the opportunity to venture into the unknown and yet be completely safe. Visitors can take in the beautiful wildlife and unique landscapes at their own pace, on their own terms. Like nowhere else in Africa, Namibia provides the visitor the opportunity to escape stress, experience peace and freedom, sit and admire the breathtaking landscapes and reflect. From game-packed parks to the silence and spectacle of the desert, this incredible country, its landscapes, people and wildlife are waiting.