Walvis Bay
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Namibia

Walvis Bay

Namibia

Experience Walvis Bay

Located at the edge of the Namib Desert where the dunes meet the Atlantic, Walvis Bay (Whale Bay) has a rich maritime history. The city is built around a natural lagoon that is one of the most important wetlands in Southern Africa. Protected by the Pelican Point sand spit, the bay serves as a safe haven for sea vessels and a thriving hub for the fishing and salt-collection industries. Visitors are drawn here for the unique juxtaposition of heavy industry and raw nature; you can watch giant cargo ships drift past colonies of seals and pods of dolphins. The climate is mild and often foggy, providing a cool relief from the desert interior.

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Things to Do

Walvis Bay Marine Big 5 Luxury Catamaran Cruise

Walvis Bay Marine Big 5 Luxury Catamaran Cruise

3 Hours$82.00
Details
Marine Big 5 Luxury Catamaran Tour

Marine Big 5 Luxury Catamaran Tour

3 Hours$81.00
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Walvis Bay and Sandwich Harbour Tour

Walvis Bay and Sandwich Harbour Tour

2 Hours$142.00
Details
Walvis Bay Pelican Point Eco-Kayaking Adventure

Walvis Bay Pelican Point Eco-Kayaking Adventure

2 Hours$90.00
Details

Where to Stay

Lagoon Lodge
4

Lodge

Lagoon Lodge

Explore Property

Iconic Highlights

1

he Walvis Bay Lagoon: A Ramsar-listed wetland famous for its seasonal population of Greater and Lesser Flamingos.

2

Sandwich Harbour: Located south of the city within the Namib-Naukluft Park, where giant dunes roll directly into the Atlantic Ocean.

3

Dune 7: The highest dune in the Walvis Bay area, popular for climbing and sandboarding.

4

Pelican Point: A remote peninsula home to a massive Cape Fur seal colony and a historic lighthouse (accessible by 4x4 or kayak).

5

Marine Cruises: Boat tours that offer close encounters with "Marine Big 5" members, including whales, dolphins, and sunfish.

Wildlife & Nature

Flamingo

Dolphin

Whale

Climate & When to Visit

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly Averages

MonthTemp HighTemp LowRainfall
Apr19°C--°C-- mm
Aug16°C--°C-- mm
Dec19°C--°C-- mm
Feb20°C--°C-- mm
Jan20°C--°C-- mm
Jul18°C--°C-- mm
Jun19°C--°C-- mm
Mar20°C--°C-- mm
May19°C--°C-- mm
Nov18°C--°C-- mm
Oct17°C--°C-- mm
Sep16°C--°C-- mm

Travel Requirements

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months with 3 blank pages.

  • Visa: Nationalities from the UK, USA, Canada, and the EU now require a visa. You can apply for an E-visa online or obtain a Visa on Arrival at Walvis Bay Airport or the Harbour for approx. NAD 1,600.

  • Access: Walvis Bay has its own International Airport (WVB) and is a 4-hour drive from Windhoek via the B2.

  • Logistics: A 4x4 vehicle is strictly required for driving to Sandwich Harbour or Pelican Point; these areas are best visited via a guided tour due to dangerous tides and soft sand.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Where can I see the flamingos in Walvis Bay?
    The best viewing is along the Esplanade/Lagoon Drive. Flamingos are present year-round, but their numbers peak during the summer months (November to April).
    Can I drive to Sandwich Harbour myself?
    It is not recommended unless you are an expert sand driver with a recovery-equipped 4x4. The route involves driving on the beach at low tide, and many self-drive vehicles are lost to the rising ocean every year.
    Is Walvis Bay colder than Swakopmund?
    They share a very similar climate, but Walvis Bay can feel slightly windier due to its exposed lagoon and harbor. Always pack a windbreaker, even in summer.

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    Dest Type

    National Park

    Status

    Entry Permits Required

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