Swakopmund vacation rentals
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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Swakopmund
Total rentals | 560 properties |
|---|---|
Rentals with a pool | 40 properties have a pool |
Pet-friendly rentals | 80 properties allow pets |
Family-friendly rentals | 290 properties are a good fit for families |
Total number of reviews | 9.9K reviews |
Nightly prices starting at | $10 before taxes and fees |
Your guide to Swakopmund
All About Swakopmund
The Atlantic Ocean exerts a large presence in Swakopmund, Namibia's largest coastal town: You can smell its salt in the air, walk along its shores or out the long jetty that extends into the water, survey the ocean’s expanse from a historic lighthouse, and taste its bounty in the dining rooms of the city’s high-quality restaurants. Ornate, German-influenced architecture dominates the public buildings and private homes in the city center. Swakopmund is also home to the largest privately run museum in the country, whose displays document the minerals, flora, and fauna of the region.
The Namib Desert extends to the east of town. Just 25 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Dune 7, a 1,200-foot sand dune that is the desert’s highest, and guided tours may bring you to other spots where you can sandboard down the dunes. With the coast and the desert so close to town, Swakopmund makes an excellent base for exploring a number of nearby attractions, such as Walvis Bay, with its abundance of marine wildlife, and the jagged valley referred to as Moon Landscape.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Swakopmund
Namibia's climate is desert subtropical, which means hot, dry days, cool nights, and very little rainfall. There is some variation in average temperatures between summer (December through February) and winter (July and August), but not so extreme as to make a real difference to what you can see and do here. If you’re interested in spotting marine life, the best time to see whales is between June and November and the best time to spot flamingos is from October to April.
Top things to do in Swakopmund
Moon Landscape
The so-called Moon Landscape, 25 miles east of Swakopmund in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, makes a fascinating day trip. Here, the Namib Desert’s surreal landscape is indeed reminiscent of a barren lunar vista. You may also encounter a true prehistoric relic, the Welwitschia mirabilis plants endemic to the Namibian and Angolan deserts. The plants average 400 to 500 years of age, although some are as old as 1,500 years.
Swakopmund Jetty
This wooden pier extends 300 yards into the south Atlantic Ocean and is the perfect place for a sunset stroll. You might even get to see a pod of dolphins frolicking in the water as you gaze out at sea. Back on the coast, you’ll find a restaurant on the water, and a few blocks inland is a quaint downtown area with more places to grab a bite to eat and shops selling handmade jewelry and crafts. Be aware that wooden boards of the jetty might be slippery, and that the temperature can drop drastically at night, so bring a warm windbreaker along with you.
Walvis Bay
A 40-minute drive down the coast to Walvis Bay will bring you to a wildlife and birdlife oasis. Here, the tidal lagoon is home to pelicans, terns, cormorants, and many other seabirds. Between November and April, you might see tens of thousands of pink flamingos in the aptly named Flamingo Bay. You can also take a boat tour to see leatherback turtles, cape fur seals, and sunfish. Between November and April, you are also likely to see whales and dolphins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Swakopmund?
Swakopmund has a desert climate, but its temperatures are often moderated by the cool Atlantic Ocean. Summer temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to about 12°C (54°F) during the day. The city also experiences foggy conditions about 180 days of the year, which can significantly reduce visibility.
What are some of the best things to do in Swakopmund?
In Swakopmund, you can enjoy activities such as sandboarding on the dunes, quad biking, camel riding, or visiting the local craft markets. Dolphin and seal watching tours are also frequently suggested. For history enthusiasts, the Swakopmund Museum and the Hohenzollernhaus are worth exploring.
What is the best time of year to visit Swakopmund?
The most popular time of year to visit Swakopmund is during the southern hemisphere's summer months, between December and April. During this time, the Swakopmund Carnival, also known as the 'Swakop Karneval', takes place. This fun, family-friendly event typically includes parades, costume competitions, and live music.
What are the best places to stay in Swakopmund?
Visitors often choose to stay in areas such as Vineta, with its close proximity to the beach, or Central Swakopmund, known for its colonial architecture. Waterfront and Kramersdorf are also popular choices, offering easy access to local attractions and dining options.
What are the best places to visit in Swakopmund?
You might enjoy exploring the Swakopmund Museum, the National Marine Aquarium, or the Kristall Galerie, home of the world's largest quartz crystal cluster on display. The Jetty 1905 and the Martin Luther Steam Locomotive are also popular attractions. For nature lovers, the Welwitschia Plains and the Rossmund Desert Golf Course are often recommended.
What are some hiking trails in Swakopmund?
Rossmund Desert Golf Course has several walking trails perfect for nature enthusiasts. Moon Landscape is another area with several hiking trails, offering a unique view of the lunar-like surroundings. Please remember to respect the environment and always stay on marked trails, as the area is environmentally sensitive.
What are some family activities to do in Swakopmund?
Visiting the National Marine Aquarium, taking a camel ride, or participating in a sandboarding tour are all activities that families frequently enjoy in Swakopmund. The Snake Park is another popular choice, as is the Swakopmund Museum that provides an insight into Namibian culture and history.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Swakopmund?
Experience a day trip to the nearby Walvis Bay, where you can explore the flamingo-filled lagoon, or visit the Sandwich Harbour, part of the Namib Naukluft Park. Another popular day trip is to the Spitzkoppe, a group of bald granite peaks located approximately 120 km (75 miles) from Swakopmund.
Are there Swakopmund apartment rentals on Airbnb with pools?
Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 10 apartment rentals with pools in Swakopmund, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!
How much does it cost to stay in bed and breakfast rentals in Swakopmund?
Experience the best of Swakopmund with our bed and breakfast rentals, starting at about $10 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
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