Namibia, a country in southwestern Africa, is home to stunning landscapes and unique natural wonders. Its capital, Windhoek, is centrally located, while Walvis Bay lies further west along the Atlantic coast. Originally a South African enclave, Walvis Bay was returned to Namibia in 1994 and now serves as Windhoek’s primary seaport.
To the south of Walvis Bay stretches the vast Namib Desert, which gives the country its name. This proximity to the desert has created extraordinary landscapes and ecosystems, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
In this guide, we highlight three must-visit attractions in Walvis Bay, perfect for travelers looking to experience Namibia’s breathtaking beauty.
1. Dune 7 Adventures
Located on the eastern outskirts of Walvis Bay, Dune 7 is one of the few dunes in the vast Namib Desert that visitors are allowed to climb. While it may seem close at first glance, the trek to the summit is longer and more challenging than it looks, making it a rewarding adventure for thrill-seekers.
You can hike up the dune for an immersive desert experience, but for an adrenaline rush, many visitors opt for a dune buggy ride, speeding up the sandy slopes in seconds. If you’re up for an even more exciting challenge, try sandboarding—the desert’s version of snowboarding. Whether you climb on foot, ride a buggy, or glide down on a board, conquering Dune 7 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Namibia.
Since these activities are highly popular, it’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
Name: Dune 7 Adventures
Address: D1984, Namibia
Official Website: http://dune7adventures.com/
2. Bird Sanctuary
Just outside the city of Walvis Bay lies a stunning Bird Sanctuary, a shallow-water wetland that serves as a vital habitat for various bird species. The highlight of this sanctuary is the Greater Flamingo, which can be seen in large flocks along the water’s edge, showcasing their striking pink plumage.
Flamingos get their pink color from the pigments found in their diet of crustaceans and algae. If you visit early in the morning, you might even spot them standing on one leg while sleeping—a fascinating sight! Witnessing thousands of flamingos in one place, just minutes from an urban area, is a truly remarkable African wildlife experience.
Name: Bird Sanctuary
Address: Bird Sanctuary, C14, Namibia
3. Cape Cross Seal Reserve
Located about 100 km northwest of Walvis Bay, the Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a world-famous destination for nature lovers. This protected area is home to one of the largest Cape fur seal breeding colonies in the world, with up to 210,000 seals gathering here during the peak breeding season in November and December.
The sight of thousands of seals covering the golden sandy beaches and rocky shores—almost blending into the desert landscape—is truly spectacular. While Cape Cross is a bit far from Walvis Bay, joining a guided tour is a convenient way to visit.
For an unforgettable experience of Namibia’s vast wilderness, consider pairing this trip with a visit to the Namib Desert, another top attraction in the country.
Name: Cape Cross Seal Reserve
Address: Cape Cross, Namibia
Official Website: http://www.met.gov.na/national-parks/cape-cross-seal-reserve/214/
◎ Summary: Top Attractions in Walvis Bay, Namibia
We’ve highlighted three must-visit attractions in Walvis Bay, Namibia—a stunning coastal city known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The Namib Desert (Namib Sand Sea), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an iconic natural wonder and an absolute must-visit. Exploring its vast sand dunes and dramatic scenery is an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, Walvis Bay is home to a rich ecosystem, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can witness flocks of flamingos gracefully wading in the lagoons and observe huge colonies of Cape fur seals along the coastline—an experience unique to Namibia.