Sandwich Harbour: Private Dune Tour & Walvis Bay Birds

Summary

Where desert dunes meet ocean waves in walvis bay

You’ll feel Namibia’s wild edge as you ride across towering dunes where desert meets ocean at Sandwich Harbour. Spot clouds of flamingos in Walvis Bay wetlands, taste salt on the breeze near Africa’s biggest salt mine, and share stories with your guide over snacks above crashing waves. This isn’t just scenery—it gets under your skin.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to taste salty so far from town. We’d barely left Walvis Bay when our guide, Johannes, slowed the 4x4 and pointed out a pink blur in the distance—flamingos, hundreds of them, picking through the shallows. The wind carried this strange mix of seaweed and something sharp, almost metallic. Johannes laughed when I squinted at the salt ponds—he said they harvest over 100,000 tons a month here. The water was actually pink. I tried to take a photo but it never looked right.

The drive south toward Sandwich Harbour felt like crossing into another planet. At one point we stopped to let some air out of the tires (apparently that’s how you don’t get stuck), and he explained how everything here has to adapt or disappear—plants curling up against sand, little lizards darting under rocks. It was quiet except for the wind and an occasional bird call. Then suddenly we were climbing these massive dunes, engine straining. My heart was pounding—not sure if it was nerves or excitement or both.

The view from up top just sort of hits you. There’s this endless sweep of sand falling straight into the Atlantic, waves chewing at the edge like they’re trying to swallow it all back. We had cold drinks and snacks up there (I spilled half my cider laughing at something Johannes said about tourists getting stuck), and I just sat for a while listening to nothing but wind and surf. I still think about that silence sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic Sandwich Harbour and Wetlands Tour

• Drive through Walvis Bay lagoon wetlands
• See thousands of pink flamingos and birds
• Pass the large Salt Mine with pink waters
• Travel south along the beach to Sandwich Harbour
• Experience roller coaster dune ride to viewpoint
• Enjoy stunning views and quiet desert ambiance
• Learn about desert plants and animals from guides
• Drop tyre air pressure and discuss bird species

Top questions

How long is the Sandwich Harbour dune tour?

The standard tour is a half day; there’s also a slower full day option with more stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this Sandwich Harbour tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours typically depart from Walvis Bay.

What wildlife can you see on this day trip?

You may see flamingos, pelicans, plovers, sandpipers, and other birds in Walvis Bay wetlands.

Are drinks or food included on this private dune tour?

Yes—beer, cider, bottled water, cold drinks, and snacks are included.

Is this tour suitable for young children or pregnant travelers?

No—it’s not recommended for infants (unless on an adult’s lap), pregnant travelers, or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

Can I book a German-speaking guide for this tour?

German guides are very limited and only available first come first serve during peak times.

What happens if bad weather cancels my Sandwich Harbour tour?

If rare bad weather cancels your tour, you’ll be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

How many people fit in each vehicle for the private tour?

The private Sandwich Harbour tour allows up to 4 people per car (sometimes up to 6).

What’s included

Your day includes a guided drive from Walvis Bay through flamingo-filled wetlands and past Africa’s largest salt mine before heading south along the coast to Sandwich Harbour; you’ll have cold drinks (beer, cider, water) and snacks along the way as your local guide navigates dramatic dunes and shares stories about life in Namibia’s shifting sands.