Walvis Bay- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Walvis Bay, situated on Namibia's Atlantic coast, hosts the nation's largest harbor and a population fluctuating between 55,000 and 65,000 due to seasonal fishing industry workers. The name "Walvis Bay" means "Bay of Whales" in Afrikaans, a nod to its rich maritime history. Discovered by Portuguese sailor Diaz in 1487, the bay became a sought-after fishing ground by the 18th century, attracting North American and European fishermen. Founded by Dutch settlers in 1793, the town was quickly annexed by the British. By 1850, Walvis Bay was thriving due to its strategic port. It remained a British enclave through various geopolitical changes until Namibia's independence in 1990, when the area was officially handed over to Namibia in 1994. Today, Walvis Bay is Namibia's third-largest city and only deep-sea harbor, renowned for its high-quality fish, oysters, and rock lobsters. Key attractions include coastal boat trips where dolphins and seals can be seen, sometimes even jumping into the boat, and occasional whale sightings. The 10-kilometer-long lagoon at Sandwich Harbour is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting over 120,000 birds, including pelicans and flamingos. "Dune 7," the highest dune in the area, offers spectacular views and sandboarding opportunities. Just 30 kilometers away, Swakopmund provides additional attractions. The extensive salt fields around Walvis Bay, covering 3,500 hectares and producing 400,000 tons of salt annually, add to the region's unique charm. This blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse activities makes Walvis Bay a compelling destination.