Walvis Bay Shore Excursion: Flamingos, Dune 7, Swakopmund

The Walvis Bay Shore Excursion offers a captivating adventure for visitors to Namibia. From spotting flamingos in their natural habitat to scaling the iconic Dune 7, this guided tour showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. Explore the historic town of Swakopmund, indulge in local cuisine, and discover unique souvenirs – all while immersed in the area’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s an experience that’s not to be missed.

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Key Points

Explore the natural wonders of Walvis Bay, including the iconic Dune 7, flamingo-filled lagoons, and the historic German-influenced town of Swakopmund.
Climb to the summit of Dune 7, the highest sand dune in the area, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Observe thousands of flamingos in their natural habitat, learning about their unique adaptations and the ecological importance of the wetland ecosystem.
Discover the rich cultural heritage and architecture of Swakopmund, with opportunities to browse local shops, museums, and savor traditional German cuisine.
The shore excursion includes pickup, park entry permits, lunch, snacks, and drinks, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Walvis Bay Shore Excursion: Flamingos, Dune 7, Swakopmund tour is priced from $200.00 per person and lasts for 7 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Walvis Bay Port, park entry permits, bottled water, lunch, snacks, drinks, and gratuities.

However, the cost of lunch at Goanikontes Oasis and the Dune 7 entry permit are extra.

This shore excursion isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Looking for more options in Swakopmund? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup at the Walvis Bay Port, allowing passengers to embark on their excursion. The first stop is to view thousands of flamingos in their natural habitat. Next, guests will challenge themselves by climbing to the summit of Dune 7, standing 132 meters tall. An exploration of the Welwitschia Mirabilis plant, an endemic living fossil, and the lunar landscape of the Welwitschia Plains follows. A lunch break at the Goanikontes Oasis precedes a visit to the old German town of Swakopmund for shopping and further discovery before returning via the coastal road.

| Itinerary Highlights | |

| — | — |

| View flamingos | Climb Dune 7 |

| Explore Welwitschia Mirabilis | Visit Welwitschia Plains |

| Lunch at Goanikontes Oasis | Explore Swakopmund |

Flamingo Viewing

Thousands of flamingos call the saline lagoons near Walvis Bay home, creating a stunning display of pink and red hues against the backdrop of the desert landscape.

This shore excursion offers the opportunity to witness this natural spectacle up close:

Observe the flamingos feeding, nesting, and socializing in their natural habitat
Learn about the flamingos’ adaptations to the harsh environment, such as their specialized beaks and salt-filtering kidneys
Admire the graceful, synchronized movements of the flocks in flight
Capture breathtaking photographs of the flamingos against the dramatic desert scenery
Gain insights from knowledgeable guides about the ecological importance of these wetland ecosystems.

Climbing Dune 7

After witnessing the awe-inspiring flamingo colonies, the tour moves on to scaling Dune 7, one of the tallest and most iconic sand dunes in the Namib Desert.

Standing at 132 meters (433 feet) tall, Dune 7 offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can test their endurance and climbing skills as they ascend the steep, shifting sands.

The climb may be challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning vistas from the top make it a memorable highlight of the excursion. Proper footwear and hydration are recommended for this exhilarating dune-climbing adventure.

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Welwitschia Mirabilis and Welwitschia Plains

Following the Dune 7 climb, the tour next explores the unique Welwitschia Mirabilis plant and the surreal Welwitschia Plains. This endemic plant is a living fossil, surviving in the harsh desert climate for over a millennium.

Visitors marvel at its gnarly, twisting leaves and learn about its remarkable adaptations. The Welwitschia Plains feature a lunar-like landscape, with the plants dotting the vast, arid expanse.

Guests can:

Observe the Welwitschia Mirabilis up close and take photos
Learn about its biology and role in the desert ecosystem
Appreciate the barren, otherworldly beauty of the Welwitschia Plains
Understand the unique adaptations that allow this plant to thrive
Gain insights into the region’s ancient geological and climatic history

There's plenty more to explore in Swakopmund

Lunch at Goanikontes Oasis

The tour then stops for lunch at the Goanikontes Oasis, where guests can enjoy a meal at the cost of approximately N$300.00 per person.

This scenic oasis offers a welcome respite from the desert landscapes. Guests can savor local dishes and refreshments in the peaceful setting.

The lunch break provides an opportunity to recharge before continuing the exploration of Namibia’s natural wonders.

With restrooms available at this location, it’s a convenient spot to take a break during the full-day excursion.

Exploring Swakopmund

From the tranquil Goanikontes Oasis, the tour heads to the historic town of Swakopmund.

Passengers have the opportunity to explore this charming German-influenced town, known for its colonial architecture and seaside promenade.

Some highlights include:

Browsing the shops and boutiques along Swakopmund’s main street, filled with locally crafted souvenirs, artworks, and handicrafts.
Visiting the Swakopmund Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture.
Admiring the iconic Swakopmund Jetty and taking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Indulging in traditional German cuisine at one of the town’s cozy cafes or restaurants.
Strolling along the lively waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of this coastal oasis.

Preparation and Considerations

Before embarking on the Walvis Bay Shore Excursion, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Before embarking on the Walvis Bay Shore Excursion, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, so it’s crucial to assess your physical capabilities.

Bring necessary items like sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the Namibian sun.

Luggage and large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light.

Toilets are only available at the lunch stop and in Swakopmund, so plan accordingly.

With these preparatory steps, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and immersive experiences on this unforgettable shore excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, lunch, snacks, and drinks, so there’s no need to bring your own. However, you can bring a camera and other personal items.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?

The tour operator doesn’t provide specific time allocations for each activity. However, the 7-hour duration allows guests to explore the major highlights, including the flamingo viewing, Dune 7 climb, and visit to Swakopmund, at a comfortable pace.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed 7-hour excursion with a set itinerary. Customers can’t add extra time or activities to the package.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned?

The tour information doesn’t mention any additional fees or taxes beyond the stated pricing. Customers should expect to pay only the listed costs for the tour, park entry permits, and optional lunch at the Goanikontes Oasis.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit Any of the Sites?

The itinerary indicates that a permit is required to climb Dune 7, costing N$150.00 per person. No other special permits are mentioned for the other sites on the tour.

The Sum Up

The Walvis Bay Shore Excursion offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture. From witnessing the graceful flamingos to conquering the iconic Dune 7, the tour culminates in the charming town of Swakopmund, where visitors can indulge in local cuisine and shop for unique souvenirs. This excursion promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the stunning landscape and vibrant atmosphere of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: