Swakopmund generally makes a more interesting place to stay, with a much better choice of restaurants, hotels and guesthouses, whilst Walvis Bay is the springboard for several super desert trips. Holidays to Namibia usually include a visit to this part of the coast.

Walking at night is not advisable and many tourists consider public transport to be unsafe; private car rental is the safest option for independent travel. Use only recognised hire car companies or official taxis.

The average cost of living in Swakopmund is $769, which is in the top 30% of the least expensive cities in the world, ranked 6480th out of 9294 in our global list and 1st out of 10 in Namibia.

The best way to get to Swakopmund is by road from Windhoek. The B2 is the main road from Windhoek, and takes 4-5 hours by car. It may seem like a long ride, but time will fly when you look out the window of your vehicle and take in the spectacular sites.

What is the nearest airport to Swakopmund? The nearest airport to Swakopmund is Walvis Bay (WVB) Airport which is 35.3 km away.

The quality of tap water in Namibia is quite good and perfectly safe to drink. Many of the lodges in the more remote areas will make use of water from a borehole which is also safe and healthy to drink.

The C28 is gravel, and the surrounding roads are best suited to high-clearance vehicles, but you won’t need a 4×4 unless you hit Bosua Pass during a serious (and rare) downpour.

The distance between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay is 31 km. The road distance is 34.7 km.

Crime Index: 47.83

       Safety Index: 52.17