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Walvis Bay, Namibia - Things to Do in Walvis Bay

Things to Do in Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay, Namibia - Complete Travel Guide

Walvis Bay is Namibia's principal port city and a gateway to some of the country's most spectacular natural attractions. Located on the Atlantic coast, this charming harbor town is renowned for its massive lagoon, which serves as a crucial feeding ground for thousands of flamingos and other migratory birds. The city's unique position between the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean creates a dramatic landscape where towering sand dunes meet the sea. Beyond its natural beauty, Walvis Bay offers visitors incredible marine wildlife experiences, including dolphin and seal encounters, whale watching, and world-class fishing. The nearby Sandwich Harbour, where desert dunes cascade directly into the ocean, provides one of Namibia's most photographed landscapes. With its relaxed coastal atmosphere, excellent seafood, and proximity to both Swakopmund and the Namib Desert, Walvis Bay serves as an ideal base for exploring Namibia's diverse attractions.

Top Things to Do in Walvis Bay

Flamingo Watching at Walvis Bay Lagoon

The shallow lagoon at Walvis Bay hosts one of southern Africa's largest concentrations of lesser and greater flamingos, with populations sometimes exceeding 50,000 birds. The best viewing spots are along the waterfront promenade and the salt works area, where you can observe these magnificent pink birds feeding alongside pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting and bird activity.

Booking Tip: No booking required for self-guided viewing from the waterfront. Guided birding tours cost around N$400-600 per person and include transportation and expert commentary. Visit during high tide when birds concentrate in smaller areas for better viewing.

Dolphin and Seal Boat Cruise

Marine cruises from Walvis Bay harbor offer close encounters with playful dolphins, Cape fur seals, and seasonal whale sightings. These excursions typically include fresh oysters and sparkling wine served on board while dolphins ride the boat's bow wave. The nutrient-rich Benguela Current attracts abundant marine life, making wildlife sightings almost guaranteed.

Booking Tip: Half-day cruises cost N$600-900 per person including refreshments. Book with established operators like Mola Mola or Catamaran Charters. Morning trips often have calmer seas and more active marine life. Advance booking recommended during peak season (July-September).

Sandwich Harbour 4x4 Adventure

This spectacular destination where massive sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean is accessible only by 4x4 vehicle during low tide. The journey includes driving along the beach and through desert terrain to reach this UNESCO World Heritage site. The contrast between golden dunes, blue ocean, and diverse birdlife creates unforgettable photographic opportunities.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost N$1,500-2,200 per person including lunch and transfers. Only licensed operators can access the area - choose companies with good safety records and knowledgeable guides. Tours depend on tide times, so flexibility with dates is important. Bring sun protection and warm layers.

Dune 7 Sandboarding and Quad Biking

Located just outside Walvis Bay, Dune 7 is Namibia's highest sand dune and offers thrilling sandboarding experiences for all skill levels. The massive dune provides panoramic views of the desert landscape and Atlantic coastline. Quad biking tours explore the surrounding desert terrain and smaller dunes, suitable for beginners and experienced riders.

Booking Tip: Sandboarding costs N$200-400 per person including equipment and instruction. Quad biking tours range from N$500-800 for 1-2 hours. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Most operators provide safety equipment and brief training sessions. Closed shoes and sun protection essential.

Pelican Point Kayaking

Paddle through the calm waters of Walvis Bay lagoon to Pelican Point lighthouse, encountering seals, dolphins, and various seabirds along the way. This eco-friendly activity offers a unique perspective of the coastline and opportunities for close wildlife encounters without disturbing the animals. The shallow, protected waters make it suitable for beginners.

Booking Tip: Half-day kayak tours cost N$450-650 per person including equipment, guide, and light refreshments. No experience necessary as guides provide instruction. Morning tours offer better wildlife activity and calmer conditions. Book with operators who emphasize responsible wildlife viewing practices.

Getting There

Walvis Bay Airport receives domestic flights from Windhoek (1 hour flight) with Air Namibia and other carriers, costing around N$2,000-3,500 for economy class. By road, it's a scenic 4-hour drive from Windhoek via the B2 highway, with car rental available from N$400-800 per day. Intercape and other bus companies operate daily services from Windhoek (N$200-350) and other major towns. The town is also easily accessible from Swakopmund, just 30 kilometers north via a good tar road.

Getting Around

Walvis Bay is compact and walkable, with most attractions within the town center accessible on foot. Car rental is recommended for visiting Sandwich Harbour, Dune 7, and other desert attractions, with several agencies in town offering 4x4 vehicles from N$600-1,200 per day. Taxis are available but limited - arrange through your accommodation or tour operators. Many visitors use Walvis Bay as a base and join organized tours that include transportation to major attractions.

Where to Stay

Walvis Bay Waterfront
Lagoon Area
Town Center
Pelican Point Peninsula
Long Beach
Kuisebmond

Food & Dining

Walvis Bay's dining scene revolves around exceptional fresh seafood, with the harbor providing daily catches of kingklip, sole, crayfish, and famous Walvis Bay oysters. The Raft Restaurant offers fine dining with lagoon views, while Anchors@thejetty serves casual seafood in a relaxed harbor setting. Local favorites include traditional Namibian game dishes and German-influenced cuisine reflecting the country's colonial heritage. Several restaurants along the waterfront specialize in oyster platters and sushi made with ultra-fresh local fish. For budget dining, try local takeaways serving fish and chips or traditional kapana (grilled meat) from street vendors.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Namibia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

BlueGrass

4.6 /5
(1139 reviews) 2

Gabriele's Italian Pizzeria

4.7 /5
(700 reviews) 2

Godenfang Restaurant Walvis Bay

4.7 /5
(591 reviews) 2

Ankerplatz Restaurant and wine bar

4.7 /5
(399 reviews)

Seoul Food

4.8 /5
(359 reviews)

ZEST - Mediterranean Restaurant

4.5 /5
(299 reviews)
cafe store

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Walvis Bay is during the cooler, dry winter months from May to September when temperatures range from 15-22°C and rainfall is minimal. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing as marine animals are most active, and flamingo populations peak. October to April brings warmer weather (20-25°C) but can be windy with occasional fog. Summer months (December-February) are ideal for water activities but can be crowded with domestic tourists. Whale watching is best from July to November when southern right whales migrate along the coast.

Insider Tips

Visit the salt works early morning for the best flamingo photography - the pink birds create stunning reflections in the shallow evaporation ponds
Walvis Bay oysters are considered among the world's best - try them fresh from the harbor at local restaurants for a fraction of export prices
Combine your visit with nearby Swakopmund to experience both coastal charm and desert adventures within a 30-minute drive

Explore Activities in Walvis Bay