How to Spend 3 Days in Swakopmund

With its desert surroundings, modern amenities, and oceanfront, it’s no wonder Swakopmund remains one of Namibia’s most popular travel destinations. From food tours to night walks, sandboarding to wildlife watching, here are our top tips for optimizing three days in the city.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Familiarize yourself with Swakopmund, taking advantage of guided tours that include suburbs such as Mondesa and the Democratic Resettlement Community for a comprehensive overview of life in the city. Don’t miss attractions like Swakopmund Museum and the Woermannhaus, which reveal Swakopmund’s colonial heritage. For alternative insight into the city’s modern culture, a food tour is a tasty option. Later, unwind with dinner and drinks in a beachside restaurant, savoring sweeping views of the Atlantic as dusk falls.

Day 2: Namibian Nature

Namibia is known for its striking scenery, and Swakopmund’s natural surroundings are no exception. Dedicate your second day to exploring the country’s coastal desert. From fishing on the Atlantic to wildlife watching in dunes, round-trip tour options are plentiful. Night walks can also be arranged, so you can continue sightseeing well into the evening. Once back in town, the city center’s lively bar scene provides lots of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and locals over a relaxing digestif.

Day 3: Adrenaline-Inducing Adventures

Now that you’re familiar with the city’s natural and cultural heritage, it’s time for one of Swakopmund’s biggest draws—extreme sports in the desert. The landscape is ideal for sandboarding, all-terrain vehicle rides, and cycling, and packages typically include pickup and drop-off. Access hidden parts of the desert, absorb the views from dune summits, then enjoy the thrill of cruising down sandy ravines. After an exciting day, spend your last night in an out-of-town lodge for an immersive nature experience with hotel comforts, or transfer directly to Windhoek or Walvis Bay to catch your departure flight with ease.