Walvis Bay, Namibia

The only natural deep water port on the coast of Namibia, Walvis Bay can be reached by sailing alongside a gorgeous coastline of undulating golden dunes, beaming sunshine, and pristine beaches.  This, however, is just a sample of the outstanding natural beauty surrounding the town. Countless seabirds, including pelicans and flamingos flock to the azure expanse of the lagoon that marks the mouth of the port. The bay’s defining feature, the lagoon is home to thousands of migratory birds and is one of the most revered wetlands in the whole of Africa. The township itself is a sprawling, bustling harbour town of some 50,000 people, vibrant with the success of a booming fishing industry and filled with sights, sounds and tastes that have to be experienced to be believed.

Sightseeing in Walvis Bay

Langstrand

This winding, dazzling coastal road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay is 30 kilometres of scenic beauty that will leave even the most experienced cruiser in awe. As well as being home to luxury beach resorts sheltering their customers from the sweltering Namibian heat beneath the largest sand dunes in the world, thrill seekers will be in heaven, as many excursion companies run activities such as quad bike riding to the peak of sand dunes, night camping in the astounding plains of the Namibian desert, and windsurfing along the coast.

Kuiseb River Delta

South east of the Walvis Bay district, the orange hued expanse of the Kuiseb Delta stretches toward the horizon in a snaking trail that has a wealth of potential for sightseers.  Guided tour companies regularly run out of Walvis Bay, giving unprecedented access to the dunes. The prehistoric Kuiseb river is older than the Namib Desert, and its delta has been untouched by human intervention in the time intervening. The area is totally deserted, and aside from other members on a tour of your choice, you won’t be running into other people. This gives the Delta an authenticity that can be rarely found when exploring other famous historical sites. A great example of how unique an experience a visit to the delta can be is the fact that many of the descendants of the original residents of the Delta, known as the Topnaars, still reside in villages along the stretch of its riverbeds and plains, herding livestock and crafting, as isolated from the modern world as their tribe has ever been. The Kuiseb River Delta is truly rare- incredible excursion just miles away that won’t have you swamped with crowds.

Shopping in Walvis Bay

The local markets upon the waterfronts sell exotic produce from all over the region, but of special note should be the antique and curio shops that can be found amongst the narrow streets in the centre of town. For a souvenir which is both beautifully crafted and personal, Glass Chameleon offers sandblasted art pieces of every shape and size, arrayed in all their bright pastel hues and kaleidoscope shades.

Eating Out in Walvis Bay

Lyon Des Sable serves French cuisine garnished with exotic spices and flavours, but the relaxed atmosphere and exceptional service is what makes it so popular with tourists and natives alike. With three sides of the restaurant presenting wonderful views of the sea, you’ll find it hard to concentrate on your plate, but the quality of the seafood, like fresh mussels and oysters will probably make its an agonising decision .