Swakopmund

Swakopmund sits on the northwestern coast of Namibia, to the west of the capital Windhoek. It is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Namib Desert on the other. Palm trees dot the streets and oceanfront promenade. The sandy beaches and coastal relief from the heat of Namibia's interior means the city draws many tourists to its beach resorts every year. It was founded as the main harbor to German Southwestern Africa in 1892, with elements of the culture like language and architecture still present today. Early mornings and evening can draw an Atlantic fog, which helps cool the desert heat, with the days being perfect for tropical sunbathing.

It is a excellent place to see the colonial architecture, or other attractions such as the Swakopmund Museum, the National Marine Aquarium, art galleries and the Swakop River with its swooping sand dunes. Thrilling adventures like skydiving, dune-boarding, hot air balloon rides, beach angling, deep-sea fishing and quad biking are available in the city and nearby areas. Historical sites can be found throughout the city and offer a intriguing glimpse into the area's past. Visit the Woermannhaus library, the Deutsche Evangelical Church and Hohenzollern Building.

Access to the city comes from B2 road by car, the Swakopmund Airport, or if visitors want a more nostalgic journey, the Trans-Namib Railway, which was started in 1895.

There is a great variety of accommodation in Swakopmund which cater for all tastes and budgets.