no alt text

Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Richard Holmes

The natural lagoon at Sandwich Harbour – 55kms south of Walvis Bay and within the Namib-Naukluft National Park – is renowned as one of the best birding locations on the African coast, attracting thousands of migratory fowl in early summer (October-November).

Designated a Ramsar ‘wetland of global importance’, the combination of dunes and lagoon is breathtaking, while the dramatic drive along the coast – with the chance to sight springbok and brown hyena – make this one of the Atlantic coastline’s natural wonders.

Price from: £75
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Operators will collect you from your hotel in Swakopmund or Walvis Bay for this full-day excursion into the deserts south of Walvis Bay. Transport is in comfortable 4WD vehicles, with refreshments and lunch provided.

It’s possible to visit Sandwich Harbour in your own vehicle, but it’s definitely not recommended. You’ll need a permit, and the shifting sands make finding the right route difficult.

When to do it

Tours run all year round, seven days a week, departing first thing in the morning.

The best time to visit Walvis Bay, and Namibia in general, is the dry season from June to October, but it is a year-round destination with generally pleasant weather. October and November, however, are especially good when the numbers of migratory birds reach their peak.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Half-Day Sandwich Harbour Tour from Walvis Bay with Lunch

Half-Day Sandwich Harbour Tour from Walvis Bay with Lunch

Walvis Bay

Sandwich Harbour, part of the Namib Naukluft Park, is a place many have heard of but very few have ever visited. Giant sand dunes run straig...

€123 | Rating 4.82 / 5 [41 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Sandwich Harbour 4x4 guided tours.Join us for an awe inspiring adventure.

Sandwich Harbour 4x4 guided tours.Join us for an awe inspiring adventure.

Walvis Bay

This tour is a must for any coastal visitor. From the start of this trip you will be awed by the natural beauty on offer. From the abundant ...

Z2,200 | Rating 4.97 / 5 [35 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Scenic Sandwich Harbour Tour

Scenic Sandwich Harbour Tour

Swakopmund

This will be your most memorable Dune Tour and your Namibia Highlight. We go where dune meets see, harsh and desolate area constantly changi...

Z2,250 | Rating 4.91 / 5 [49 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Sandwich Harbour Tour - Pelgrim Tours

Sandwich Harbour Tour - Pelgrim Tours

Walvis Bay

Sandwich Harbour is a lagoon on the Atlanic coast of Namibia, south from Walvis Bay, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Formaly a com...

Z2,500 | Rating 4.87 / 5 [8 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo

Our writer’s recommended tour operators to book with

No Image Available for this listing

Namibia Kayak Tours

Walvis Bay, Erongo, Namibia

Well-regarded local Walvis Bay tour operator offering affordable kayak tours off Walvis Bay’s Pelican Point, safaris to Sandwich Harbour and combos of both.

No Image Available for this listing

Sandwich Harbour 4×4

Walvis Bay, Erongo, Namibia

Walvis Bay company offering 4×4 excursions to Sandwich Harbour and the Walvis Bay wetlands. Combination tours with marine cruises, kayaking, and birdwatching tours are also available.

No Image Available for this listing

Turnstone Tours

Swakopmund, Erongo, Namibia

Swakopmund-based Bruno & Kate Nebe offers high-quality, private bespoke tours to all parts of Namibia, including some of the least accessible but most spectacular parts. Their Sandwich Harbour tours are among the best.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Desert Breeze Lodge

Swakopmund, Erongo Region, Namibia[79.8 miles]

This colourful lodge offers a welcome break from the tourist bustle of Swakopmund, with 12 spacious bungalows gazing out over the desert.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Namibia

Namibia

Desert adventure and desolate coastlines meet game-rich reserves and quirky towns in this unique and atmospheric country.

Website >
Overview >

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Walvis Bay [boating & kayaking]

Walvis Bay, Erongo Region, Namibia[48.3 miles]

This former whaling town is now a marine ecotourism hotspot. Birdlife is prolific, and close-up encounters with pelicans, flamingos Cape Fur seals, dolphins and penguins are all but guaranteed.

Best for ages: 5+ | £40 | Half-day

Website >
Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Tiger Reef Beach Bar
Experience

Tiger Reef Beach Bar

Swakopmund, Erongo Region, Namibia[78.7 miles]

With Adirondack chairs set just metres from the sea, this rustic beach bar in the mouth of the Swakop River is the best place in Swakopmund for sundowners. Make like the locals and drink beer, not Bellinis.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 1-2 hours

Website >
Overview >
The Tug
Experience

The Tug

Swakopmund, Erongo Region, Namibia[79.4 miles]

If you’re not devouring your weight in eisbein at the Brauhaus, beachfront seafood eatery The Tug is the best place to eat in Swakopmund. Phone ahead for a window seat.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free | 1-2 hours

Website >
Overview >
A large group of seals looking at the camera at Cape cross
Experience

Cape Cross Seal Colony

Cape Cross, Erongo Region, Namibia[185.6 miles]

One of the largest seal colonies in the world, Cape Cross is a worthwhile day out from Swakopmund, and the lonely 200km round-trip offers fantastic sea and desert panoramas.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free | 1 day

Website >
Overview >