Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert, Swakopmund, is one of Namibia’s most popular holiday destinations. With its colonial architecture, oceanfront promenades, historical sights, cozy guesthouses, and excellent restaurants, this laidback town has charm by the bucketloads.
A perfect base for exploring the coast – from boat and kayaking trips to dune quad biking, it is easy to fill several days with adrenaline-pumping fun. Swakopmund is also the main springboard for exploration of the dramatic Skeleton Coast, while more immediate attractions include the bird-rich lagoon at nearby Walvis Bay and at Sandwich Harbour, the adventure activities operating along the dune belt, and Welwitschia Drive in the nearby northern Namib.
The town’s famous Kristall Galerie houses a superb collection of semi-precious stones , of which the centrepiece is a remarkable 500-million-year-old quartzite crystal that stands twice as tall as a person. Weighing in at more than 14 tonnes, it is claimed to be the largest such formation in the world.
Aerial View
Swakopmund was founded in 1892 as the main harbour for the Imperial German colony
The Mole
The Mole breakwater beach offers plenty of opportunity for sunbathing and swimming
Lighthouse
Opened in 1902, the landmark lighthouse warned ships of the treacherous Skeleton Coast
Kristall
The renowned Kristall Galerie houses the largest crystal cluster in the world
Fact Box
| Region | Erongo |
| Coordinates | 22D41’S – 14D32’E |
| Population | 44,725 (2011) |
| Founded | 4 August 1892 |
| Average Temperature | 15 °C (59 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F) |