If you’re seeking an activity that combines outdoor adventure with wildlife viewing in Namibia, the Half Day Original Seal Kayak Adventure at Pelican Point might just be your perfect match. This tour promises a blend of scenic drive, guided kayaking, and the chance to see seals, dolphins, and a variety of birdlife—all while respecting the natural environment.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the inclusive nature of the trip—everything from transportation to kayaking gear is arranged for you, making logistics simple. Second, the focused wildlife encounters provide a non-intrusive way to observe seals and dolphins. Lastly, the friendly, knowledgeable guides ensure you get the most out of your time on the water.
That said, it’s worth noting the weather dependency—since it’s an outdoor activity, poor weather could lead to cancellations. This tour suits travelers who love active experiences, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed, eco-friendly way to explore Namibia’s coast.
Key Points
- All-inclusive package: Includes transportation, kayaking equipment, and guided support.
- Wildlife spotting: Expect seals, dolphins, flamingoes, and pelicans in their natural habitat.
- Eco-friendly approach: Tours respect local wildlife and promote sustainable tourism.
- Comfort and convenience: Travel comfortably in a 4×4 with scenic views along the way.
- Group size: Limited to 22 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
- Weather-dependent: Activity may be canceled due to poor weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
The adventure begins early, with a pickup around 8:00 am from a centrally located meeting point in Walvis Bay. The journey to Pelican Point is part of the experience—covering approximately 40 km in a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, the drive itself offers plenty of chances to admire Namibia’s diverse landscapes. You’ll pass over salt pans, see protected wetlands, and observe a variety of bird species such as flamingos, pied avocets, and pelicans.
As you arrive at Pelican Point, the scenery is breathtaking. The towering lighthouse marks the beginning of your kayaking route, which stretches along the coast. Guides from Eco Marine Kayak Tours, known for their friendliness and expertise, will give you a quick safety briefing and fit you with gear that’s included in the price—no need to bring your own paddling equipment.
Once on the water, the focus shifts to wildlife. Expect seals to be curious and playful—many reviewers mention how seals often approach or swim around your kayak, creating fantastic photo opportunities. Bottlenose dolphins are also seen frequently, sometimes surfacing just meters away, adding an exhilarating element to the trip. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy the birdwatching opportunities, with many noting the abundance of flamingoes and pelicans.
The kayaking stretch is manageable, designed for most travelers, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Guides are attentive to safety and keen to share their knowledge about the local ecosystem, making this a genuinely educational experience. Reviewers have praised guides Kevin and Graham for their hospitality and organization, which adds a layer of comfort and trust to the outing.
The return trip takes you back to Walvis Bay, with your kayak adventure wrapping up after about four and a half hours in total. Many travelers find the combination of activity, scenery, and wildlife viewing to be a perfect balance—leaving with memorable photos and stories to tell.
Looking for more options in Walvis Bay? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $72.12 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusiveness and exclusive access to wildlife in a pristine environment. The fact that everything is organized for you—from the drive through wetlands to the essential kayaking gear—means you can focus solely on the experience.
The guided nature of the tour also ensures you’re not just paddling aimlessly; instead, you’re learning from guides who know where to find the seals and dolphins and how to spot the best birdwatching spots. The small group size (max 22 travelers) fosters a more intimate setting, perfect for snapping photos and asking questions.
Since the tour is highly praised by visitors—receiving a perfect 5-star rating based on 56 reviews—you can trust that it delivers on its promises. Many reviewers mention how hospitable and knowledgeable the guides are, and the fact that most travelers book this experience about a month in advance indicates its popularity.
Transportation & Logistics
The tour’s starting point is conveniently located in Walvis Bay, with a pickup scheduled at 8:00 am. The scenic drive to Pelican Point is a highlight itself—passing through protected wetlands and salt pans, which are home to an incredible array of bird species.
Transportation is via a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, which can handle the terrain and offers a panoramic view of Namibia’s landscape. The tour is designed to be flexible in case of weather issues; if bad weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
The duration of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes includes travel time, kayaking, and a chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings afterward. For travelers coming from cruise ports or nearby accommodations, the pick-up location is close and easy to access.
The Kayaking Experience: Up Close With Wildlife
The kayaking part of this tour is truly what sets it apart. It’s a non-intrusive way to observe seals and dolphins, and reviewers frequently comment on how friendly and curious the animals are. One reviewer, Elizabeth G, mentioned that guides Kevin and Graham were “hospitable, organized, and catered to us,” which made the whole experience seamless and enjoyable.
Travelers often say that seals come quite close to the kayaks, sometimes even approaching in playful manners—adding a fun and interactive element to the outing. Similarly, bottlenose dolphins are known to pop up nearby, providing that magical moment when wildlife seems to acknowledge your presence without disturbance.
Birdwatchers will appreciate the chance to see large flocks of flamingoes and pelicans, which are abundant in the wetlands leading to Pelican Point. These sights are best enjoyed with guides who are well-versed in identifying species and sharing interesting insights.
The Guides and Service
Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides, which greatly enhance the tour. Kevin and Graham, in particular, are praised for their hospitality and knowledge. They go beyond just guiding—you can tell they love their environment and want to ensure guests have an authentic, informative experience.
The tour’s emphasis on protecting local wildlife also resonates with eco-conscious travelers. Guides explain the importance of respecting the animals and their habitats, making this not just a fun activity but also an educational one.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
Since outdoor activities are vulnerable to weather, it’s important to note that the tour operates only in good weather conditions. If canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers, but given its popularity and positive reviews, cancellations are rare.
Because the activity is non-refundable once booked, travelers are encouraged to confirm their plans early, especially if visiting during peak seasons.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy being on the water and want to see Namibia’s wildlife without disturbing it. It suits those looking for a relaxed pace but with plenty of engaging moments, especially if you appreciate birdwatching and marine mammals.
Families, couples, and solo travelers will find this experience rewarding, especially with the small group size ensuring personal attention. However, travelers with mobility issues or those uncomfortable with water-based activities should consider their comfort level, as kayaking is involved.
Final Thoughts
The Half Day Original Seal Kayak Adventure at Pelican Point offers a rare opportunity to get close to Namibia’s coastline wildlife in a respectful, eco-friendly way. The combination of scenic drive, guided kayaking, and wildlife observation makes it a well-rounded day out—especially for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly approach shine through, making the experience both educational and fun. The opportunity to see playful seals, curious dolphins, and vibrant birdlife from close quarters creates memories that last and photos that impress.
This tour delivers excellent value for the price, thanks to its inclusive setup, intimate group size, and focus on authentic encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time kayaker, you’ll find this experience accessible and rewarding. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to explore Namibia’s coast with a responsible, guided approach that emphasizes wildlife and landscape.
FAQs
Is the kayaking equipment included?
Yes, all kayaking gear is provided as part of the tour, so you won’t need to bring your own.
What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at a conveniently located meeting point in Walvis Bay, with pickup scheduled for 8:00 am.
Can I participate if I haven’t kayaked before?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are attentive to safety, making it suitable even for beginners.
What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see seals, bottlenose dolphins, flamingoes, pelicans, and other wetland birds.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues or who are uncomfortable on water should assess their comfort level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the activity, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, kayaking, and return.
In essence, this tour perfectly combines adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to experience Namibia’s coast while respecting its environment—an authentic, memorable outing for nature lovers.