Cape Cross Seal Colony Tour from Swakopmund, Namibia
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our clients get to see some 80,000 to 100,000 Cape Fur Seals at close quarters. This is an experience of a lifetime. During October, large adult males haul out to establish breeding territories, and those that do, stay for six weeks or more. The bulls expend considerable energy reserves and lose weight establishing and maintaining territories, herding females and fighting other males. A single pup is born in late November or early December and during a 34 - day period, 90% of the pups are born. The black pups suckle soon after birth and the females remain with it for the first week. This close association establishes a strong maternal bond between the pup and its mother. The initial bonding period is very important as it enables her and the pup to identify one another amongst the thousands of other seals. Without milk from the females, the pup's chances of survival are virtually nil. When they are separated the mother bellows for her pup and miraculously they find one another.
Available options
Cape Cross Seal Colony Tour from Swakopmund, Namibia
Pickup included
What's included
Clients have a choice between mineral water, Coca Cola or Fruit Juice.
Detailed itinerary
1
Depart from Swakopmund and travel along the Skeleton Coast in the direction of Cape Cross. En route visit some salt-pans where flamingos can be seen. Your guide will explain the nature and characteristics of these shore birds. Continue along the coast and stop to take a closer look at a ship wreck. Your guide will relate the history of this wreck. Inspect some endemic lichen-fields which occur near Cape Cross.
2
Proceed to Cape Cross seal reserve. Here in 1486 a Portuguese explorer named Diego Cao, the first European to set foot in Namibia, erected a stone cross in honour of King Juan of Portugal. Today there is a large colony of Cape Fur Seals which can be viewed at close quarters and is an experience of a lifetime. Since the introduction of legislation controlling the utilisation of seals in Namibia in 1922 the seal population at Cape Cross has increased to more than 250,000. Your guide will provide all relevant information about the seals.
3
The return journey to Swakopmund includes a sightseeing tour of the small holiday resort, Henties Bay. Henties Bay developed from a mere sprinkling of fisher huts into a very popular holiday resort within a few decades. Your guide will relate the origin and history of this settlement.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
3.3
4 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In front of the Strand Hotel
About Swakopmund
Swakopmund is a coastal city in Namibia, known for its German colonial architecture and adventure activities. It offers a unique blend of desert and ocean landscapes, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adrenaline seekers.
Top Attractions
Swakopmund Museum
A small but informative museum showcasing the natural history and cultural heritage of the region.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Swakopmund Jetty
A historic jetty that extends into the Atlantic Ocean, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the city's maritime history.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Dune 7
One of the highest sand dunes in the area, offering thrilling sandboarding and quad biking experiences.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Biltong
Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, often made from beef or game.
Snack
Contains meat
Kapana
Grilled meat, often sold by street vendors, typically made from beef or game.
Street Food
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Quad biking
Skydiving
Beach walks
Sunset cruises
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and low humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans, German
- Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Namibian Dollar (NAD)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Swakopmund is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Walvis Bay Airport • 30 km from Swakopmund
By train
Swakopmund Station
By bus
Swakopmund Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable but can be crowded. They operate on a fixed route and schedule.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Waterfront
Day trips
Walvis Bay
30 km • Half day
A nearby coastal town known for its lagoon, birdlife, and water sports.
Skeleton Coast
100 km • Full day
A remote and rugged coastline known for its shipwrecks and seal colonies.
Festivals
Swakopmund Carnival • February
Oktoberfest • October
Pro tips
- Book adventure activities in advance
- Carry water and sunscreen at all times
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems
- Try local seafood dishes
- Visit the Swakopmund Museum for a deeper understanding of the region's history
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
