Sandwich Harbour is one of the very famous sites in Namibia. However, also one of the least visited of them all. Sandwich Harbour is part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park and has become one of the most unique places in Namibia. This is where the massive sand dunes of the desert descend into the Atlantic Ocean. Thereby, creating some magnificent scenery. Driving through the sand dunes of the Namib Desert is a perfect way to experience this amazing place.
The history of Sandwich Harbour
Once upon a time, Sandwich Harbour actually worked as a habour. It was founded in 1486 by Portuguese sailors. However, what the harbour was used for is still unknown. Some claim that the harbour was based on small-scale fishing and whaling during the 19th century. Then in 1884 it became a supply harbour for the colony of German South-West-Africa. But after a few years this ended, as the port of Swakopmund gained importance. Nowadays the harbour isn’t functional as it has been covered by the descending sand dunes. Only the stunning landscape and scenery of the lagoon are left to be explored.
Everything you need to know for a visit to Sandwich Harbour
Before you visit the incredible landscape of Sandwich Harbour there are a few things you might find useful to know. Therefore, we have gathered everything you need to know for a visit to Sandwich Harbour in Namibia.
Getting to Sandwich Harbour
Sandwich Harbour can only be reached through a guided tour. These take place in a 4-wheel drive that drives you the 42 kilometers from Walvis Bay to the harbour. This drive will take you along the beach, as well as on a bumpy ride through the massive sand dunes of the Namib Desert.
Time spent at Sandwich Harbour
How much time you spend at Sandwich Harbour depends on whether you join a half-day tour or a full-day tour. Below, we have made a short outline of what you should expect from each type of tour to Sandwich Harbour.
Half-day tour Sandwich Habour tour
A half-day tour of Sandwich Harbour in Namibia is often set to take about 4 hours. These take place in either the morning or afternoon. Morning tours start around 8:30 and return around 12:30. While the afternoon tour will start at 12:30 and return around 16:30.
A half-day tour of Sandwich Harbour often involves the following:
- A stop at Walvis Bay Lagoon to watch masses of flamingos.
- A drive through Kuiseb river delta where you may spot springbok, oryx, or jackals.
- Sandwich Harbour – with stops at several viewpoints.
- A light lunch
- A stop at the pink lake.
Full-day tour Sandwich Harbour tour
A full-day tour of Sandwich Harbour takes about 8 hours. This kind of tour starts at around 8:30 and ends at 16:30. This tour involves the same activities as the half-day tour, however, the morning hours are spent kayaking to Pelican Point and the seal colony that lives there.
Prices
The prices of the Sandwich Harbour tours will always vary depending on which company you end up booking through. However, the prices tend to be somewhat similar. In the tables, you are able to see what the prices for a Sandwich Harbour tour might look like.
| Sandwich Harbour tickets | Half-day tour | Full-day tour |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 2.000 NAD | 3.000 NAD |
| Children under 12 years | 1.500 NAD | 2.000 NAD |
NB: These aren’t the specific prices and might vary.
The Namibian roller coaster
A Sandwich Harbour tour in Namibia is also known as the Namibian roller coaster. This is due to the drives through the massive dunes. They get very bumpy! If you are prone to car sickness you might want to skip this one. For others, it is an exhilarating drive.
Tip: Bring water to help with motion sickness
Best time to visit Sandwich Harbour in Namibia
The best time to visit Sandwich Harbour is in the morning hours. If you join a morning tour, you are able to drive along the beach towards Sandwich Harbour. However, there isn’t actually a bad time to visit Sandwich Harbour. In the morning you might experience some fog which can impact the views. If you join an afternoon tour, you are not able to drive along the beach due to high tide. This means that an afternoon tour will take you through the sand dunes both to and from Sandwich Harbour. And that can be quite bumpy – but also fun at times!
