For Days 3 and 4, your journey continues as you take a scenic flight from Sossusvlei to the seaside town of Swakopmund. As you fly over Namibia’s stunning landscapes, you will have the unique opportunity to view the haunting beauty of the Eduard Bohlen shipwreck from above. The ship, stranded in 1909, now lies half-buried in the sand dunes of the Skeleton Coast, a stark reminder of nature’s power. This rusted shipwreck against the backdrop of the barren desert and the azure sea makes for a mesmerizing sight.
Upon landing, you’ll find yourself in Swakopmund, a charming town set along Namibia’s beautiful coastline. Known for its wide-open avenues, colonial architecture, and surrounding desert terrain, Swakopmund blends German and Namibian cultures in a fascinating way. Established in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund now thrives as a seaside resort and the heart of the Skeleton Coast tourism area. The town’s cool sea breeze, diverse adventure options, and relaxed atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Namibia. During your stay, you can look forward to a plethora of exciting activities including quad biking, horse riding, paragliding, fishing, sightseeing, and captivating desert tours.
Your accommodation for the next two days will be the magnificent Strand Hotel Swakopmund, a destination in itself. Located on the historic Mole, an iconic site surrounded by the ocean on three sides, the hotel serves as a social epicenter for both visitors and residents of Swakopmund. With its unique restaurants, bars, deli, lobby-lounge, sea-facing terraces, beach kiosk, and state-of-the-art conference and banqueting center, the Strand Hotel offers a wealth of experiences.
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from Namibian-German history and blends it tastefully with modern amenities. The interiors aim to create a residential, non-hotel feel, a place as warm, welcoming, and comfortable as the town itself. As you enter the Strand Hotel, you’ll pass through the 13m high and 9m wide Ocean View Atrium that bisects the hotel, offering stunning sea views. Reception, comprising three individual desks and a cozy open fireplace, completes the homely atmosphere and ensures a warm welcome to all guests. This truly provides an added “sense-of-place” atmosphere to your Namibian visit.