Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a protected area for the world’s largest breeding colony of Cape fur seals. During the breeding season in November and December, an estimated 210,000 animals may be there; this seasonal peak can vary from year to year. A boardwalk makes it easier to observe the seals. Check the boardwalk’s current condition before your visit.

An encounter with nature and history

In 1486, Portuguese seafarer Diego Cão landed at Cape Cross and erected a stone padrão there. A replica is visible today; the area, including a second replica, is designated a National Heritage Site. The seal colony and a tangible historical connection thus sit side by side at Cape Cross. Before your visit, also check the condition of the visible replica.

Rocky landscapes and protected areas

Natural landmarks in the northwest of the Erongo Region include the Brandberg, the distinctively shaped Spitzkoppe Mountains and the very old Messum Crater. Spitzkoppe is often called the “Matterhorn of Namibia” and is almost 700 million years old. Its highest point reaches 1,784 metres above sea level and lies around 700 metres above the surrounding plain. The first figure describes the absolute elevation, while the second describes the elevation difference from the plain—two different measures for the same peak.

Part of Namib-Naukluft Park lies in the south of the Erongo Region; the rest extends into the Hardap and Karas regions. Henties Bay, Swakopmund and the hamlet of Wlotzkasbaken lie within Dorob National Park in the Erongo Region. The strip of dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay is also in Dorob National Park. This helps explain Dorob both as a protected area with settlements and as a landscape of dunes.

Lagoons, birdlife and trails

Walvis Bay Lagoon and Sandwich Harbour are Ramsar-listed bird sanctuaries. Sandwich Harbour lies about 30 kilometres south of Walvis Bay. A 2015 travel description mentions boat trips departing from Walvis Bay and heading out to sea; sightings may include Benguela dolphins, seals, pelicans and sunfish, as well as the occasional southern right whale. Before making plans, check whether such trips are currently available.

Fishing, camping and hiking are listed as tourist activities in Dorob National Park. The 18-kilometre Jakkalsputz hiking trail is in the park; trails of 20 and 70 kilometres are also listed along the Omaruru River. In terms of length, the 18-kilometre Jakkalsputz trail and the 20-kilometre route listed along the Omaruru River are similar; the 70-kilometre route also listed for the Omaruru River is considerably longer. Before setting out, check the current access and condition of the routes, as well as whether the campsites are operating.

Cultural insights at Omandumba

The Living Museum of the Ju/'Hoansi San has been open to visitors at Omandumba since 2008. Visits include demonstrations of traditional dances and rituals, as well as games. This adds a cultural dimension to the region’s natural and scenic attractions.

Discover more destinations: Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Omaruru, Rand Rifles, Karibib, Uis, Henties Bay, Rossing, Usakos, Cape Cross, Langstrand, Uigaran

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