Reviews of trips to Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
935 holiday reviews from our travellers of holidays which include Swakop' & Walvis Bay.
"Simply a wonderful trip"
We did not see all Namibia has to offer but enough to appreciate how much it has to offer and be able to confidently recommend others to go. We would also recommend others to opt for the larger car. The driving was a joy. Although the distances varied each day we reached our destinations by 2 pm every day except the last and this allowed us to relax and, from Hohenstein, enjoy a swim,
Indeed the quality of the lodges (accommodation and food); their locations and scenery; and the chance to experience the cool freshness in the early morning and relax with a drink as the sun went down; were probably as important in our enjoyment as seeing the amazing dunes and the rich variety of game animals.
So, a huge thank you
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
We are lost to think of anything" Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 11 on a Namibia trip
"My Aug 2018 trip"
The typical Namibian lodge we stayed in was in a good location (a bit of a drive from the main road), had well appointed rooms with a view, a warm welcome, a sundowner spot or drive, a 'signature' activity, and a nice dinner and breakfast. Service in general was good everywhere. 2 night stops in most locations worked well - we generally needed a full day to do whatever the 'signature' activity was.
Our highlights were Fish River canyon - it's a long, long drive south, but really worth it, Tok Tokkie Trails - sleeping under the stars, and Etosha - Okaukuejo camp facilities weren't great, but the water hole made it so much better than staying outside the park.
4WD car essential, together with an ipod for the long drives and in September in the south the nights were very cold - need jacket and a hat!
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Can't fault anything about the trip.
We had a couple of problems - delayed bag, forgotten Kindle, on both of which we were helped by the local team - thank you!" Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 17 on a Namibia trip
"Namibia August/September 2018"
The advice we received at Expert Africa was second to none and Tom always allowed us as much time as we wanted to ask numerous questions; we never felt rushed into making a decision. We'd have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Expert Africa to friends and family.
The highlights of our trip were, without question: (i) our stay at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge - we can't wait to go back there; (ii) the rich and diverse wildlife we saw from our base in Namutoni, Etosha; (iii) our stay at Okonjima Bush Camp. On reflection we wouldn't return to Okaukuejo Camp - sadly the accommodation is in need of an upgrade.
In short, 'out of this world'." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 19 on a Namibia trip
"Namibia Zambia"
In Namibia, very long drives between locations, 6-7 hours per day over corrugated roads." Read full review: 22 nights in Africa; 12 on a Namibia trip
"Our 2nd trip to Namibia - no disappointments"
Since our last visit in 2013, the condition of some of the gravel roads has deteriorated quite a lot, and we noted that most other guests at our lodges were driving the Toyota Hilux , a much tougher vehicle that our X-trail. We only met one grader this time and the road approaching Spitzkoppen Lodge and the road from there to Uis were particularly bad. Money (Chinese?) seems to be being spent in upgrading the tarred roads on which we travelled, most of which had already adequate surfaces.
Although you quoted for flights when we enquired, you did point out that we might get better rates elsewhere. We thank you for that, as we were able to fly from Southampton (25 miles from us) to Windhoek via Schipol with KLM for a very reasonable price, without the hassles of transit at Jo'burg - thankyou." Read full review: 18 nights in Africa; 16 on a Namibia trip
"Our 2018 Namibian Adventure"
The one thing we would change would be go for 3 weeks rather 2 (as per many of the other Europeans!) if we could get the time off. Namibia is such a varied country with amazing landscapes, teeming with wildlife and great hospitality.
Every place we stayed (and there were 7) had a wow factor and I wonder if any other country will ever offer us so much again.
We only saw one other British family when we were there so it really is one of those best kept secrets!" Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 14 on a Namibia trip
"It's hard to see Namibia in 2 Weeks"
Expert Africa helped us translate our vague plan into a trip that fit our needs very well. The drive/fly itinerary gave us the experience of driving in Namibia, but allowed us more time to enjoy the camps. We're very glad we stayed for 3 nights in most of the camps. The balloon ride was expensive, but worth it.
Our best memories are the subtle beauty of the landscape and the close interactions with animals that are possible in very few places in the world. We were very lucky to (follow someone who could) track and find 4 black rhino, 2 leopards and a cheetah.
Now that we're home, we face the daunting task of turning several thousand of photos into a few dozen that succinctly communicate the experiences we had on this trip." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 14 on a Namibia trip
"My Aug 2018 trip"
Perhaps erred a bit on the luxurious side, but we didn't really complain." Read full review: 33 nights in Africa; 26 on a Namibia trip
"Namibia trip"
"Amazing "
It was organised to perfection and the accommodation was all perfect, amazing considering we didn't think a trip was possible due to most of the accommodation was fully booked.
Etosha was the highlight, it seemed to get better the more time we spent there, but each stop on the trip had highlights and created memories for a lifetime.
Namibia is our new favourite African destination." Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 12 on a Namibia trip
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Inspire meWhere to stay in Swakop' & Walvis Bay
Our suggestions for places to stay in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Sam's Giardino
Welcoming, professionally run, and mildly eccentric, Sam’s Giardino lifts the level of hospitality in Swakopmund to unusual heights.
Strand Hotel
One of the larger hotels in Swakopmund, the Strand is well-placed on the seafront with good access to restaurants and the centre of town.
The Stiltz
Not your typical guesthouse, The Stiltz occupies a glorious location over the Swakop River on the edge of Swakopmund.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund Guesthouse
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Sea Breeze
Just north of Swakopmund, the delightful Sea Breeze Guesthouse is bright and well-looked after with welcoming and helpful owners.
Organic Square
Organic Square is a modern guesthouse across two properties in the centre of Swakopmund.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
