Embark on a day tour to the Swakopmund Cape Cross Seal Colony and explore the stunning lichen fields. Experience beach angling and learn about salt crystals and saline algae along the way.
- Nande Junia’s Explorer Tours - Located 53km to the north of Henties Bay, a fishing town on the Atlantic coast, Cape Cross is home to a replica of the original cross planted by Cão in 1484. Both the replica and the site of the original cross were designated as national monuments on November 1st, 1968. However, the second replica of the padrão is not included in the national monument designation.
Over the course of 400 years following Cão’s arrival, numerous ships met their demise along the desolate Skeleton Coast. The first documented sightings of Cape fur seals in the waters off Southern Africa occurred in 1884, as noted in the logbook of the German cruise ship, the Möwe. The discovery of guano in 1895, a fertilizer derived from the droppings of piscivorous birds, led to the establishment of settlements in Cape Cross. The term ‘guano’ originates from the Inca language, describing a substance composed of eggshells, feathers, decomposed bodies, and bird droppings. Due to its high value, often referred to as ‘white gold,’ guano continues to be collected from platforms along the coast of Namibia.
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Refreshments
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
This excursion, lasting four hours, offers both a morning (09.00) and afternoon (13.00) launch.
We will pick you up from your stay in Swakopmund before we embark north up the coastal roadway to Cape Cross, which is 130 km away. Along our route, we will take a moment to appreciate the sprawling lichen fields that sit east of the coastal road, reaching out towards the horizon.
Before we get to the vacation hub of Henitiesbay, we will pass by the “Free Republic of Wlotzka’s Baken”, a self-reliant community comprising beach cabins and bungalows about 40 km north of Swakopmund. This area is a popular retreat for beach fishing enthusiasts.
Once we have passed Henitiesbay, the route will take us by sizeable salt pans used for rock salt mining and refinement. Your guide will enlighten you about the complex nature of salt crystals and the saline algae, which are plentiful in this area.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
