Pelican Point Guided Walk – offshore activity

Exploring Walvis Bay’s Pelican Point: A Guided Walk Worth Your Time

If you’re visiting Namibia and looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Pelican Point Guided Walk offers a fresh way to experience the region’s rugged coastline. This 4-hour journey, led by knowledgeable guides from Kelly’s Wild Adventures and Tours, promises a relaxed pace, incredible photo opportunities, and close encounters with local wildlife. While it’s a new activity in Walvis Bay, it’s already earning rave reviews for its authenticity and scenic beauty.

What we love about this experience is its combination of ease and adventure: a manageable walk along an isolated beach, stunning views at every turn, and the chance to see seals and bird colonies up close. Plus, the inclusive touches like snacks and drinks, and the opportunity to continue with a Sandwich Harbour tour, make it feel like a well-rounded day out. That said, it’s not for those looking for a high-intensity hike — moderate fitness is recommended, and some sections may require feet to get wet, so water shoes are advisable.

This walk is perfect for travelers arriving on a cruise or those craving a peaceful coastal escape with wildlife and photographic flair. If you enjoy slow-paced explorations, spectacular vistas, and guided insights, this activity should be on your list.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with a relaxed walking pace along Pelican Point’s pristine beach.
• Wildlife viewing including seals and bird colonies, notably at the famous seal colonies and shipwreck.
• Flexible options to extend your day with a Sandwich Harbour tour or return directly to Walvis Bay.
• All-inclusive amenities like snacks, bottled water, and refreshments at the end enhance comfort.
• Ideal for moderate fitness levels, with some sections where feet might get wet.
• Private tour experience ensures your group’s comfort and personalized attention.

A Full Breakdown of the Pelican Point Guided Walk

Starting Point and Route: From Salt Pans to the Beach

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Walvis Bay, passing the pink lakes at the Walvis Bay Salt Pans. These salt flats are a photographer’s dream, especially when the sun hits just right, casting a soft pink hue and attracting flocks of birdlife. The guide will share interesting facts about the salt production process and the local ecosystem, which adds an educational touch to the scenic drive.

Next, you’ll turn off the public road onto a 4×4 tract that leads toward Pelican Point. This route, while rugged, adds to the adventure and offers glimpses of the surrounding wetlands and salt flats. The drive is short but exciting, giving you a taste of the off-road experience, which is part of the charm for many travelers.

Stop 1: Walvis Bay Salt Holdings & Pink Lake Photo Stop

The first stop is a quick 15-minute visit near the salt works, where you can snap photos at Pink Lake. This spot is perfect for capturing striking images of the vivid pink water contrasted with the blue sky. Expect to see plenty of birdlife here as well, including flamingos and other waders, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

Stop 2: The Walk to Pelican Point

The core part of the experience is a 3-hour walk along an isolated beach, covering approximately 12 km. The trail takes you across firm sand and tidal flats, with some sections where you’ll need to wade through shallow water — water shoes are recommended, especially after recent rains or tides.

During the walk, your guide will share insights about the local ecosystem, the history of Pelican Point, and its significance for wildlife. The landscape is rugged and expansive, with panoramic views of the Atlantic and the distant dunes. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience that allows you to connect with nature away from crowded tourist areas.

Stop 3: Pelican Point and the Seal Colonies

Reaching Pelican Point, you’ll pass a famous shipwreck that’s become an iconic photo spot. Beyond that lie the seal colonies, where playful seals lounge on the rocks and swim just offshore. The guide will point out various bird species and share fun facts about these colonies, making it a highlight for wildlife lovers.

A picnic on the beach adds a touch of indulgence amid the wild scenery. As one reviewer mentioned, the guide Kelly, “not only knew a lot but made the experience enjoyable,” adding a personal and insightful element to the tour.

Post-picnic, guests can choose to be transferred back to Walvis Bay or continue with a Sandwich Harbour tour, which combines even more scenic 4×4 adventures in the area. This flexibility means your day can be tailored to your interest and energy levels.

Practical Details: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Transportation & Pickup: The tour offers convenient pickup options, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating in an unfamiliar area. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during transfers.

Duration & Timing: The core walk lasts about 3 hours, with additional time for pickup, stops, and optional extensions. The entire experience is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, fitting well into a morning or early afternoon window.

Group Size & Guide: This is a private tour, so you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your guide, Kelly, known for her friendly and knowledgeable approach. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more intimate and flexible.

Fitness & Clothing: Moderate fitness is recommended. Expect some walking on sand, possible water crossings, and uneven terrain. Water shoes are a good idea, especially if the tide is high. The tour is suitable for children aged 10 and up, making it family-friendly.

What to Bring: Apart from water shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. The weather can be variable, so layers are advised. Snacks and drinks are provided, but bringing a refillable water bottle is always a good idea.

The Value of the Experience

For just over $75 USD, the Pelican Point Guided Walk packs in a lot. You get a scenic drive, a lengthy walk on a pristine beach, close wildlife encounters, and the chance to capture stunning photos. The inclusion of snacks and refreshments adds comfort, especially after a long walk. Compared to other offshore or land-based activities in the area, this offers a more relaxed and authentic vibe — perfect for travelers who prefer experiencing nature on foot rather than from a vehicle or boat.

The reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable guides like Kelly enhance the trip, making it more than just a walk — it’s an educational journey with personal touches. The chance to see seals and birds in their natural habitat provides a memorable wildlife experience that’s hard to match.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a slow-paced, scenic outdoor activity that combines wildlife viewing with stunning coastal scenery. It’s well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as some parts involve walking on sand and crossing shallow water. Families with children 10 and older will enjoy the relaxed nature and wildlife encounters.

If you’re arriving from a cruise, this is an offshore activity that requires minimal physical exertion but offers maximum visual and wildlife rewards. Photographers will love the opportunities at Pink Lake, seal colonies, and the shipwreck. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore an unspoiled stretch of Namibia’s coast with expert guides.

The Sum Up

The Pelican Point Guided Walk presents a compelling blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural interest all in a manageable format. The small-group, private setting ensures a personalized experience, led by passionate guides who share their knowledge with warmth and humor. The inclusion of snacks and the option to extend your adventure makes it a flexible choice for a half-day outing.

This tour is best suited for those who want to enjoy Namibia’s coast at a gentle pace, soaking in the views and wildlife without the burden of strenuous activity. It’s a perfect introduction to the region’s natural charm, especially if you’re short on time but crave an authentic outdoor experience.

If you’re after a scenic, wildlife-rich walk led by friendly guides with great attention to detail, this tour is a smart choice. Prepare to be captivated by the wild beauty of Pelican Point and the peaceful rhythm of the Atlantic’s edge.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including pickups, stops, the walk, and optional extensions like the Sandwich Harbour tour.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your location in Walvis Bay and an air-conditioned vehicle for transfers.

What should I wear?
Dress for moderate activity — comfortable clothing, water shoes (recommended), sun protection, and layers depending on weather conditions.

Can children join this tour?
Children from age 10 and up are welcome, making it a family-friendly option for those with older kids.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Seals at the colonies and various bird species, including flamingos and waders, especially at Pink Lake, are common sights.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While it’s a moderate walk on uneven terrain, some sections may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.