Sandwich Harbour Day Tour: Walvis Bay Lagoon & Desert Wildlife

Summary

Full-Day Sandwich Harbour Adventure from Walvis Bay

If you want to see wild flamingos up close, taste local treats, learn about Namibia’s salt industry, and watch seals play on a windswept peninsula—all with an expert guide who knows every hidden corner—this full-day Sandwich Harbour tour is for you.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked off just after sunrise—cool air, a bit salty from the Atlantic, clinging to our jackets as we met our guide by the waterfront. He knew every shortcut out of town and pointed out the sleepy pelicans still huddled on the docks. The drive to Walvis Bay Lagoon was short, but you could already hear the distant chatter of birds before we even got out of the vehicle.

Standing by the lagoon, I’d never seen so many flamingos in one place—hundreds, maybe thousands—wading through shallow water that shimmered pink in the morning light. Our guide explained how this spot draws birdwatchers from all over. There was a faint smell of brine in the air, mixed with something sweet from a nearby vendor selling koeksisters (those sticky local pastries). We grabbed a few for the road.

The next stop was Namibia’s biggest salt refinery. You can’t miss it—the mountains of white salt look almost like snow against the desert. Our guide shared how they process sea water here; apparently, most of southern Africa gets its table salt from this very place. It’s oddly beautiful and industrial at once.

Then came my favorite part: heading into the Namib Desert itself. The sand dunes seemed endless and alive—sometimes you’d spot a springbok darting between them or catch sight of a hardy welwitschia plant clinging to life where nothing else grows. The sun started to bite around midday, but our air-conditioned 4x4 made it easy to keep exploring without melting.

We wrapped up at Pelican Point Peninsula. The wind picked up and you could hear seals barking before you saw them—a whole colony sprawled across black rocks, some flopping into the surf. It felt wild and remote, but also peaceful in its own way. Heading back to Walvis Bay Waterfront, I realized I’d barely checked my phone all day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sandwich Harbour Excursion

• Meet guide and driver at hotel or waterfront
• Visit Walvis Bay Lagoon to see flamingos and birds
• Learn about Walvis Bay Salt Refiners
• Explore Namib Desert wildlife and plants
• Drive to Pelican Point Peninsula to see seals
• Return to Walvis Bay Waterfront

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Yes, families often join us! Just note that young children should be comfortable with bumpy rides and wildlife viewing.

What should I bring along?

Sunscreen, sunglasses, comfy shoes, and a light jacket for early mornings work best. We provide drinks and snacks.

Will I see flamingos year-round?

You’ll usually spot flamingos at Walvis Bay Lagoon any time of year—numbers peak between October and April.

Is lunch included?

No full lunch is served but we offer snacks and drinks throughout the day. Feel free to bring extra if you like!

What’s included

Your day includes park permits, snacks (think local pastries), bottled water, soft drinks or a cold beer if you fancy it, plus comfy transport with AC—and your guide takes care of everything else so you can just enjoy the ride.