Swakopmund Surrounds

The region surrounding Swakopmund is very diverse. One can find the characteristic sand desert and gravel plains, as well as savanna and mountainous landscapes of the Great Escarpment. The areas within the Namib Naukluft Park and the Dorob National Park are especially scenic.

Climate of the Swakopmund Surrounds

The climate is strongly influenced by the interplay of the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert. Due to the cold Benguela Current the temperatures drop significantly compared to the temperatures inland. The prevailing south west winds are cooled down by the Benguela Current to such an extent that it prevents the formation of clouds. However a fog bank is formed above the Atlantic floating above the coastline on 200 days a year, sometimes spreading quite far inland.

Flora and Fauna of the Swakopmund Surrounds

Especially in the areas of the Namib Desert a lot of endemic species can be found – perfectly adapted to the hostile environment. The endemic head stander beetle (Onymacris unguicularis) for example uses his body to catch the fog condensation, which he can then drink. The Welwitshia Mirabilis, found numerously in some areas around Swakopmund, can become very old. The plant is also found on the national coat of arms.

Here we provide an overview of activities, highlights and sights of the Swakopmund Surrounds region. In the Namib Naukluft Park the traveller finds the Sandwich Harbour, a place where ocean and dunes meet in a very special way. In this region there are uncountable specimen of the Welwitschia Mirabilis and there is an exciting desert research station. Furthermore one of the largest seal colonies is also situated in the Swakopmund Surrounds region.

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