Namibia Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Swakopmund

Travel Tips, Highlights & Reflections from the Road | Escapes with TKay

As a proud African traveller, I made a promise to myself: to intentionally explore more African countries — not just as a tourist, but as a storyteller. Each African country has something deeply unique to offer. With every escape, I get to document the experience and share it with my trailblazer community — people who love travel, intentional living, and designing a life with both freedom and responsibility. One of the countries I recently visited — and one that has left a lasting impression on my soul — is Namibia 🇳🇦.

Located on the south-western coast of Africa, Namibia is a destination that blends raw natural beauty, calm, adventure, and reflection in a way few places do. In this post, I’m sharing practical travel tips, highlights from my trip, and honest reflections to help you plan your own Namibian escape.

A country of infinite opportunities and diversity

About Namibia: A Country of Infinite Possibilities

According to the official Visit Namibia tourism site, Namibia is a country of “infinite opportunities and diversity” — and I couldn’t agree more.

Namibia is best known for:

  • The Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world, stretching along the Atlantic Ocean
  • Vast open landscapes and dramatic coastlines
  • Rich wildlife and conservation areas
  • A sense of space and stillness that invites reflection

The country is divided into seven cluster regions:
Central, Eastern, North-West, Western/Coastal, Northern, North-Eastern, and Southern regions. Despite its size, Namibia offers depth — especially for travellers seeking experiences beyond crowded hotspots.

Swakopmund, a charming coastal town, blends adventure, culture, and calm, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.

Entry, Visa & Currency Basics

Passport: Required

  • Visa: Not required for travellers from Lesotho, South Africa, or Eswatini
  • Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD), pegged to the South African Rand
  • Payments: Cards widely accepted; expect ±2% foreign exchange fees

Getting There & Where I Stayed

Getting There & Where I Stayed

I booked a four-day travel package with a boutique travel agency, which included flights, accommodation, and activities — a great option if you want convenience without overplanning.

  • ohannesburg → Walvis Bay (±2 hours)
  • Stayed at Atlantic Villa Guesthouse, Swakopmund
  • Airport transfers included

Travel tip: Bring ear plugs — coastal winds can be loud during landing.

Quad biking in Dorob National Park

What to Do in Swakopmund

Some experiences I highly recommend:

  • Dolphin & Seal Cruise  (meals and drinks included): A must-do experience — including meals, drinks, and unforgettable ocean views. I even met fellow travellers from the UK and France, reminding me how travel connects people across borders.
  • Camel riding 🐪 & quad biking in the desert: A fun way to experience the desert landscape differently.
  • Bicycle hire to explore the town: Ideal for exploring the town at your own pace.
  • Sand Harbour Tour: where the desert meets the ocean.

These activities balance adventure with ease, making Swakopmund accessible for all travel styles.

Reflections from the Road

What stood out most wasn’t just the scenery — it was the people, the conversations, and the stillness.

This trip reminded me that travel isn’t something to postpone until retirement. With thoughtful planning, we can experience the world now, while still being financially responsible.

As a financial wellness coach, that balance — living fully while planning wisely — sits at the heart of Escapes with TKay.

Is Namibia Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

“You may leave Namibia, but it will never leave you.”

Namibia offers space — physically and mentally — to slow down, reflect, and reconnect.

Continue the Journey

🎧 Listen to the Namibia Escape podcast episode:
🎥 Watch the Swakopmund vlog
🌍 Explore more stories at www.tkaynthebe.com

Where should I escape to next?

About Escapes with TKay

Escapes with TKay explores the intersection of finance, travel, and becoming — offering practical money insights, honest travel storytelling, and reflections on designing a life of intention, freedom, and sustainability.

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