Pelican Point Kayaking Half-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of a hands-on wildlife encounter in Namibia’s stunning coastal landscape, the Pelican Point Kayaking Half-Day Tour offers just that. While we haven’t personally paddled through these waters, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear: this experience is a must for nature lovers wanting an authentic, close-up look at seals, seabirds, and the scenic beauty of Walvis Bay.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to paddle among a massive colony of Cape fur seals, second, the beautiful bird sightings like flamingos and pelicans, and third, the expert guidance that ensures safety and fun. One thing to consider? The physical fitness level required is moderate, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some activity.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s ideal for those eager for an active, immersive wildlife experience with excellent value, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of photo moments. If you’re after a scenic, wildlife-rich adventure that’s friendly for beginners, this might just be your next highlight in Namibia.

Key Points

• Close encounters with thousands of seals in their natural habitat
• Educational guides who share insights about local wildlife and conservation
• Inclusion of breakfast, bottled water, and gear, making it a hassle-free experience
• Scenic stops for bird and flamingo photography, enhancing the trip’s visual appeal
• Safe kayaking on a protected part of Pelican Point, suitable for most fitness levels
• Flexible cancellation policy with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Pelican Point Kayaking Tour

The Booking and Planning Experience

Booking the Pelican Point Kayaking Half-Day Tour is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 54 days ahead on average. The price sits around $79.37 per person, which offers pretty good value considering the full experience — transportation, breakfast, gear, and guided expertise. Most reviewers agree that the tour’s cost is justified by the quality of wildlife viewing and the professional organization behind it.

Meeting Point and Ease of Access

The adventure kicks off at the Anchors Waterfront Restaurant in Walvis Bay, a convenient location if you’re arriving via cruise or local accommodation. Guides like SJ and Jasmine have been praised for their punctuality and helpfulness, with some reviewers mentioning they even come to pick guests up from the cruise port. This personal touch is appreciated, especially since the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan accordingly.

Transport to Pelican Point

The journey to Pelican Point involves a 4×4 drive along the lagoon and salt mines, providing a scenic prelude to the paddling session. Most reviews describe the drive as comfortable and informative, with guides sharing interesting tidbits about the area’s industry and environment. The drive adds a layer of excitement, giving you a taste of Namibia’s rugged coastal landscape before the water-based adventure begins.

The Kayaking Experience: Up Close with Seals

The core of this tour is paddling on tandem kayaks in a protected part of the peninsula. Guides ensure safety and make the activity accessible, even for beginners, by providing waterproof clothing and boots. Reviewers like Vanessa and David highlight how easy and fun the kayaking is, mentioning that even those with little experience find it manageable.

What makes this trip stand out? Being so close to the seal colony of over 20,000 seals. Reviewers often mention how seals swim right up to the kayaks, and some even hop onto them — an experience described as “once in a lifetime” by Robin. Guides like SJ or Francois are praised for their enthusiasm, attentiveness, and their efforts to make everyone comfortable while snapping photos with waterproof cameras.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

Apart from the seals, the tour offers excellent opportunities to see flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants along the way. Stopovers during the drive allow for spectacular photo moments, especially with flamingos in their vibrant pink plumage. Reviewers mention how guides are keen on sharing conservation insights and ensuring everyone gets a good shot of these beautiful birds, adding educational value to the sightseeing.

Additional Activities and Highlights

Many guests rave about the food and drinks included — a simple breakfast and bottled water that help keep energy levels up. The final stop often involves a snack on the beach, as some reviews describe, with scenic views and the chance to relax after paddling.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledgeable and Caring

Reviewers consistently point out how guides like SJ, Jasmine, or Francois go above and beyond. They’re described as passionate about wildlife and conservation, providing interesting commentary, answering questions, and ensuring safety. Jasmine, for example, is celebrated for her local knowledge and her ability to spot and describe wildlife, making the experience both fun and educational.

The Experience’s Suitability and Physical Demand

While the activity is described as safe and manageable, it does require a moderate physical fitness level. Reviewers note that the trip is relaxed but active — paddling in tandem kayaks, often with playful seals swimming nearby. The tour is best suited for those comfortable on the water and willing to spend around 2 hours paddling.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

From the reviews, one of the key selling points is the close proximity to the seals — some travelers report seals swimming so close that they could almost touch them. The interaction with playful pups and curious adults gives the experience an authentic wildlife safari feel. Plus, the expert guidance and the inclusion of useful gear reduce the hassle and let you focus on the fun.

Value and Overall Impression

For around $80, this tour offers a well-rounded package: scenic drive, wildlife encounters, safety gear, tasty breakfast, and professional guides. Many reviewers mention that the overall organization is top-notch, with excellent communication and timely pickups. The chance to see Namibia’s coast from both land and sea makes this a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy active outings and scenic views. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and interested in up-close animal encounters in a safe environment. Families with children (who are supervised and accompanied by adults) will find it manageable and memorable.

If you’re a photography buff, the tour provides plenty of opportunities for stunning shots of seals, flamingos, and the Namibian coastline. It’s also perfect for cruise travelers, thanks to the convenient pickup, and for anyone wanting an authentic, hands-on experience of Walvis Bay’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The Pelican Point Kayaking Half-Day Tour offers a unique chance to interact intimately with Namibia’s marine life in a safe, well-organized setting. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and plenty of wildlife encounters, it stands out as a value-packed adventure that combines activity, education, and stunning visuals.

This tour really shines for wildlife lovers eager to see seals in their natural habitat up close — not from a distance, but beside them in their environment. The inclusive setup, with gear and breakfast, makes it effortless to relax and enjoy. It’s best suited for those wanting an active, memorable, and authentic Namibia experience that beautifully blends nature and adventure.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, paddling, and stops.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation in a 4×4, breakfast, bottled water, waterproof clothing and boots, and guided kayaking with photos taken by your guide.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the activity is described as suitable for those with moderate physical fitness — making it manageable for families with older kids.

Do I need kayaking experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The guides handle safety and provide the know-how needed to paddle comfortably.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activity, and expect that waterproof clothing and boots are provided. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses for extra protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Anchors Waterfront Restaurant in Walvis Bay and concludes back at the same location.

Are there scenic stops during the drive?
Yes, the drive along the lagoon and salt mines offers great photo opportunities of flamingos, pelicans, and the salt flats.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather might lead to cancellation, with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

This captivating, wildlife-rich kayaking tour is a fantastic way to connect with Namibia’s coast and its playful seals. With stunning scenery, engaging guides, and a relaxed pace, it’s an experience you’ll cherish and talk about long after you leave Walvis Bay.