Walvis Bay Shore Excursion: Flamingos, Dune 7, Swakopmund

This seven-hour shore excursion in Namibia offers a true taste of the country’s dramatic natural beauty and charming towns. While it’s designed for cruise travelers wanting to make the most of their limited time, it also appeals to anyone eager for a quick but authentic snapshot of Namibia’s coast and desert. What makes this trip stand out are its spectacular flamingo viewing and the chance to conquer Dune 7, the tallest dune in the area, plus a visit to the German-influenced town of Swakopmund.

A couple of things to keep in mind: the entry permit for Dune 7 costs around N$150 per person, which is an extra expense. Plus, lunch at Goanikontes Oasis is at your own cost—roughly N$300 per person. Still, the convenience of port pickup and drop-off and the knowledgeable guides make this experience well worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural exploration without the hassle of organizing logistics on your own.

Key Points

• Wildlife viewing: See thousands of flamingos in their natural habitat, a highlight for bird lovers.
• Scenic landscapes: Explore the lunar-like terrain of the Moon Landscape and the impressive Dune 7.
• Cultural charm: Discover Swakopmund’s German-influenced architecture and quaint streets.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at Walvis Bay Port simplifies logistics.
• Value: Includes park entry permits and bottled water, offering a seamless experience.
• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides enrich your understanding of Namibia’s natural and cultural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting at Walvis Bay Port

The tour begins right at the cruise port, which is incredibly convenient. A driver from Red Dune Safaris will meet you there, and after a short briefing, you’ll head straight for the lagoon—an ideal spot for flamingo viewing. We loved the way the guides emphasize geography and wildlife, helping us appreciate the significance of these birds in Namibia’s ecosystem. You’ll see thousands of flamingos in their natural habitat, often standing in the shallow waters, their pink plumage creating vibrant splashes of color against the lagoon’s blue background.

Flamingos and the Lagoon

This part of the trip is a definite highlight. The guides are usually well-informed and eager to share facts—like how flamingos filter-feed with their beaks and their seasonal migration patterns. As one traveler put it, “Great trip with a great tour guide. Pick up at the port worked perfectly.” The experience of seeing these elegant creatures in the wild is a reminder of how Namibia’s coast is a vital bird haven.

Climbing Dune 7

Next, the adventure shifts to Dune 7, the tallest in the region at 132 meters (about 433 feet). Climbing Dune 7 isn’t just for thrill-seekers; it offers jaw-dropping views of the desert landscape and the surrounding area. Be prepared for a bit of a workout—the dune’s loose sand makes the ascent more challenging than it looks. Once at the top, you’ll understand why this dune is such a favorite among visitors.

The entry permit costs N$150, so be sure to bring some cash if you want to climb. The views are well worth the effort, and some travelers have noted that “JP showed and explained a lot to us,” making the climb both educational and memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Plains

After Dune 7, you’ll visit the Moon Landscape, a stark, otherworldly terrain that looks like it belongs on a different planet. This is an ideal spot for photos and contemplating the raw power of nature. Nearby, you’ll see the Welwitschia Mirabilis, an endemic plant often called a living fossil. It’s incredible to think that such ancient flora has survived here, and guides typically offer insights into its unique biology.

Lunch Stop at Goanikontes Oasis

Next, the tour pauses at Goanikontes Oasis, a peaceful spot in the desert. Here, you can buy lunch—roughly N$300—at your own expense. The oasis offers a refreshing break, with shaded areas and a chance to stretch your legs. Pack some snacks or drinks if you prefer to avoid a wait or to save money, as the guide does not include lunch in the price.

Exploring Swakopmund

Finally, the trip takes you to Swakopmund, a charming German-influenced town on Namibia’s Atlantic coast. You’ll have time to explore at your own pace, wandering the streets, browsing local shops, or snapping photos of the historic buildings. Many find Swakopmund’s blend of seaside charm and European architecture a delightful contrast to the desert landscapes seen earlier.

Return Along the Coast

The day ends with a scenic drive back along the coast, enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Namibian landscape. The guides are usually eager to share additional information about the region’s ecology and history, making the journey both relaxing and educational.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The real strength of this experience lies in its combination of wildlife, scenery, and culture. You’re not just ticking off sights but engaging with Namibia’s environment through close-up animal viewing, dramatic landscapes, and a culturally rich town. The guides’ knowledge is a recurring theme in reviews—many travelers appreciated how guides explained the significance of each location, turning a sightseeing tour into a mini-lesson about Namibia.

The Balance of Cost and Value

While $200 per person might seem like a modest investment, it includes park entry permits and bottled water, reducing the hassle of paying for these separately. The price covers a lot of ground in a compact day, making it good value for travelers wanting a rundown without stressing about logistics. Keep in mind, you’ll need to budget separately for lunch, which most find reasonable considering the convenience and quality of the experience.

Managing Expectations

This tour isn’t suited for everyone—pregnant women or those with mobility issues might find the Dune 7 climb challenging. Also, since it’s a group tour with a set schedule, travelers who prefer complete flexibility might find it less ideal. However, the small group size and live English-speaking guides make for an engaging and personalized experience.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This excursion is perfect for cruise passengers eager to maximize their time ashore without feeling rushed. The port pickup and drop-off eliminate worries about transportation, and the itinerary hits key highlights in a compact package. It’s an especially good choice for those who’re interested in birdwatching, dramatic landscapes, and quaint coastal towns.

Travelers who value guides who share their knowledge will appreciate the reviews praising the guides’ explanations. If you’re interested in Namibian wildlife and scenic deserts, this tour delivers those in spades. And for those curious about the local culture or wanting a taste of Namibia’s unique environment, it offers a well-rounded experience.

The Sum Up

This Walvis Bay shore excursion provides a solid, engaging snapshot of Namibia’s coast and desert landscapes. The combination of flamingo viewing, Dune 7, and Swakopmund’s town charm makes it a well-rounded day trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see notable highlights without the hassle of organizing on their own.

The value for money is good, especially with included permits and water, and the guides’ expertise makes a difference in making the experience more meaningful. It’s a day that balances adventure, nature, and culture with enough flexibility to enjoy at your own pace.

If your cruise stops in Walvis Bay and you’re looking for a memorable, authentic taste of Namibia in just a few hours, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour is generally accessible, climbing Dune 7 might be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of a hike.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, for Dune 7 entry permits and lunch, you’ll need cash—roughly N$150 for the permit and about N$300 for lunch at Goanikontes Oasis.

Will I see animals other than flamingos?
The focus is on flamingos at the lagoon, but guides often share insights about the local ecosystem, so you might learn about other bird species and desert flora like the Welwitschia.

Are refreshments provided?
Bottled water is included, but snacks and other drinks are not. You might want to bring some extra water or snacks for your comfort.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Availability varies, so check your cruise schedule. The tour lasts about 7 hours, so mornings or early afternoons are likely best to avoid late-day heat or schedule conflicts.

Is the tour guided in a language I understand?
Yes, the guides are English-speaking and live, ensuring you get informative commentary throughout the trip.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a set group tour, customization isn’t typical. However, you can plan your own meals or explore Swakopmund further after the guided portion if time allows.

In all, this Walvis Bay shore excursion offers a well-balanced, memorable look at Namibia’s unique coastal and desert environments, with the added bonus of expert guides who make every stop informative and engaging. It’s a strong choice for travelers seeking a meaningful, hassle-free day ashore.

You can check availability for your dates here: