Swakopmund Cape Cross seal colony Day Tours
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This four hour tour has both a morning (09.00) and afternoon (13.00) departure.
After picking you up at your Swakopmund accommodation, the tour leaves up the coastal road in a northerly direction. Cape Cross is 130 km from Swakopmund and along the route you will stop to marvel at the extensive lichen fields stretching away to the horizon, east of the coastal road.
Another point of interest before you reach the holiday town of Henitiesbay is the “Free Republic of Wlotzka’s Baken”, some 40 km north of Swakopmund. This self-sustaining settlement of wooden cabins and bungalows on the beach is the haven of many a beach angler.
Once past the town of Henitiesbay, the road leads past expansive salt pans where rock salt is mined and refined. Your guide will introduce you to the intricacies of salt crystals and saline algae, which are found in abundance.
Available options
Swakopmund Cape Cross seal colony Day Tours
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Alcoholic Beverages
Snacks
Refreshments
Detailed itinerary
1
Cape Cross is situated 53km north of the Atlantic coastal fishing town of Henties Bay. The replica of the original cross, erected by Cão at Cape Cross in 1484, as also the site of the original cross, were declared national monuments on 1st November 1968. The 2nd replica of the padrão does not form part of the proclaimed monument.
Many ships were wrecked on this barren Skeleton Coast over the 400 years after Cão landed. It wasn't until 1884 that the first sightings of Cape fur seals were recorded off the coast of Southern Africa, substantiated by entries into the log book of the German cruise ship, the Möwe. When guano, the waste left by fish-eating birds used as fertilizer, was discovered in 1895, people began to settle in Cape Cross. Guano is an Inca word for a mix of eggshell, feathers, decayed corpses and bird excrement. It became so valuable, that it was called 'white gold' and to this day is harvested from platforms off Namibia's coast.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Cape Cross is situated 53km north of the Atlantic coastal fishing town of Henties Bay. The replica of the original cross, erected by Cão at Cape Cross in 1484, as also the site of the original cross, were declared national monuments on 1st November 1968. The 2nd replica of the padrão does not form part of the proclaimed monument.
Many ships were wrecked on this barren Skeleton Coast over the 400 years after Cão landed. It wasn't until 1884 that the first sightings of Cape fur seals were recorded off the coast of Southern Africa, substantiated by entries into the log book of the German cruise ship, the Möwe. When guano, the waste left by fish-eating birds used as fertilizer, was discovered in 1895, people began to settle in Cape Cross. Guano is an Inca word for a mix of eggshell, feathers, decayed corpses and bird excrement. It became so valuable, that it was called 'white gold' and to this day is harvested from platforms off Namibia's coast.
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
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
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