Swakopmund is one of Namibia’s most popular holiday destinations. Its quaint coastal town is home to German colonial architecture and offers a wide range of fun activities.
Dune boarding, horse riding and quad biking are all popular options. But you can also take to the sky to enjoy breathtaking views of the desert from above with a hot air balloon ride.
1. Dune Bike Ride
The Dune Bike Ride is one of the most popular tours in Namibia. Riding a quad bike through the endless expanse of shifting sand dunes is nothing short of thrilling.
During this tour, you’ll get to see many different animals that live in the desert. During the ride, you’ll also learn about the history of the desert and the Topnaar tribe.
This three-hour trip will take you out to the dune belt between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Enjoy a thrilling ride over the dunes and then head out to the prime sand-boarding dune for an hour of fun.
2. Horse Riding
Horse riding is a sport that’s often perceived as an easy activity, yet it takes hours of hard work to become competition ready. This is because it’s a full-body, high-intensity sport.
Kids who learn to ride horses develop a sense of self-confidence and patience, which can help them grow into strong, independent adults. Riding also increases their self-discipline and focus.
Namibia offers a range of epic horse riding trails that take you across the world’s oldest desert. Depending on your experience level, some itineraries are longer and include tented camping, while others are shorter and include accommodation in lodges.
3. Skydiving
Skydiving is an awe-inspiring way to experience the breathtaking views of Namibia's Namib Desert. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated and ready to jump again!
Ground Rush Adventures / Skydive Swakopmund own and fly two Cessna 206 U-model aircrafts which are specifically equipped for skydiving. These aircraft are certified and maintained to the standard of the Directorate of Civil Aviation (DCA).
You will be collected with courtesy vehicles from your accommodation in Swakopmund and brought to our office where all paperwork is completed before you will be taken on the drop zone where you will be attached to a world class qualified Tandem Master for the life changing thrill of a tandem skydive!
4. Dolphin Tours
A dolphin and seal tour in Swakopmund is the perfect thing to do if you want to take a break from the desert and see some marine wildlife. Not only do you get to see a variety of marine animals but you can also watch them interact with each other in large pods, which is really cool.
The boat departs from the operator’s private pier in Walvis Bay, where guests have an unobstructed view over the harbour / lagoon area.
The tour takes you to Pelican Point where one of Namibia’s impressive seal colonies awaits your presence and where bottlenose, Heaviside’s and dusky dolphins can be spotted frequently. During the winter months (July to November) Humpback whales can also be spotted.
5. Fishing
The Atlantic Ocean and the coast of Swakopmund attract fishermen from all over Namibia. Whether by boat or from the beach, there is always a good catch to be had.
The waters around Swakopmund are home to a variety of fish, including Kabeljou (Cob), Steenbras, barbers and a large variety of sharks. During the summer months, boat fishing trips take place from near shore to 1 or more kilometers off-shore.
Enjoy a day of fishing on the shore or on a boat with a professional guide. This full-day tour includes beverages and a local lunch pack.