Swakopmund in Namibia – The Most German Town on the Atlantic
Our three-week Namibia road trip took us to many spectacular places, and Swakopmund was a welcome change of scenery. This charming coastal town with a German flair offers a refreshing ocean breeze and countless adventure opportunities.
For us, Swakopmund was the perfect stop to relax, enjoy delicious food, and embark on new adventures.
1. Swakopmund in Namibia: A Town with History
Swakopmund was founded in 1892 by the Germans as a port city and served as an important trading hub during the colonial era. The well-preserved architecture from that period gives the town its unique charm, blending European elegance with the African landscape—you can truly experience the architectural remnants of colonial history up close.
The cool Atlantic breeze and mild climate make Swakopmund a perfect place to unwind after hot days in the desert.
2. Our Accommodation: The Historic Hansa Hotel
During our stay in Swakopmund, we chose the legendary Hansa Hotel, which impresses not only with its comfort but also with its history. Built in 1905, it is one of the oldest buildings in Swakopmund.
With its elegant facade and nostalgic ambiance, it tells the story of the town’s rich past. Staying in this hotel feels like stepping back in time.
History of the Hansa Hotel
The Hansa Hotel is a true landmark in Swakopmund. For over a century, it has welcomed travelers from around the world, from adventurers to famous guests. Its central location, just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, makes it the ideal base for exploring Swakopmund. Despite modern renovations, the hotel has preserved its historical charm—from the tastefully furnished rooms to the exquisite dining hall.
Our Stay at the Hansa Hotel
The hotel impressed us with a mix of luxurious amenities and personalized service. Our highlights:
A cozy room combining modern comfort with classic style
An excellent breakfast buffet that left no wishes unfulfilled
A beautiful garden—an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the city
We highly recommend the Hansa Hotel to anyone looking for a special place to stay in Swakopmund.
3. Activities and Attractions in Swakopmund
Exploring the Town
A stroll through Swakopmund feels like a journey through time. Some must-see sights include:
Hohenzollernhaus: An impressive building from the German colonial era
Woermannhaus: Featuring a distinctive tower, one of Swakopmund’s most famous landmarks
Jetty 1905: This historic pier offers stunning views of the Atlantic
Kristall Galerie: Learn more about Namibia’s gemstones and admire giant crystals
Lighthouse: Built in 1902 by the German Schutztruppe, this 11-meter-high lighthouse is a must-see
Culinary Highlights
Swakopmund’s German heritage is also reflected in its cuisine. Some of our favorite dining experiences:
The Tug: Perfect for fresh seafood with an ocean view
Village Café: A cozy spot with delicious apple strudel and a charming atmosphere—great for breakfast or lunch
Swakopmund Brewing Company: Offering a variety of local craft beers
Adventures in the Namib Desert
Just a few kilometers from Swakopmund lies the breathtaking Namib Desert. Here, you can experience:
Sandboarding: Ride down the dunes on a sandboard
Quad Biking: Explore the endless sand dunes on a quad bike—pure adrenaline!
Living Desert Tour: A guided tour to discover the “Little Five” of the desert (chameleons, geckos, beetles & more)
4. Our Tips for Swakopmund
Best Time to Visit: The coastal town is worth visiting year-round
Clothing: Bring warm jackets—the Atlantic breeze can be chilly, especially in the evenings
Photography Spots: The architecture, desert, and ocean provide endless opportunities for stunning photos
5. Conclusion: Why Swakopmund is a Must-Visit
Swakopmund is a unique destination that impresses with its diversity: historical charm, breathtaking nature, and a vibrant town culture make it a highlight of any Namibia road trip. Our stay at the Hansa Hotel added a nostalgic touch that we particularly enjoyed.
For us, Swakopmund was the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, and we would return anytime to recharge between Namibia’s nature adventures.
Our next stop after Swakopmund was Walvis Bay.
Packing List for Swakopmund
Warm clothing for cool evenings
Sunscreen and a hat for desert activities
Camera for capturing the stunning landscapes and architecture
Comfortable shoes for exploring the town
Need more inspiration for your Namibia self-drive trip? Check out these articles:
Do you have questions about our stay in Swakopmund or need more travel tips? Feel free to reach out or follow our adventures on Instagram: tom_rbg_ and anna_rbg_!
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