The coastal city of Swakopmund was found in 1892 as the main harbour for the then German South West Africa. It feels a bit weird to call it a city, as the atmosphere is more of a small-town feeling.
That feeling is amplified by the old German architecture that is seen throughout the town. The impact of German heritage is felt not only through the architecture, but it is common to hear people speaking German, and even the waiters at most of the German restaurants can greet their clientele in German.
We stayed in a self-catering unit (Jetty’s) at the beach, but that didn’t really matter, as it was quite cold and windy during our short stay. The accommodation was great for the price, with my only complaint being that the curtains were very light and the streetlights were very bright.
This is the last place to stock up on supplies for the trip. The trip includes breakfast and dinner, so the only items needed is for a light lunch, and drinks for the trip. There is a Woolworths in town, but the variety is limited compared to cities in South Africa, and the prices are quite a bit higher. This makes sense hough, as getting fresh produce to such a remote location is obviously expensive. The Pick ‘n Pay is probably your best source of food and beverages, so if you’re in a hurry go straight there.
Once we stocked up, it was time to fill the water containers. Our host graciously agreed and provided us with a hose pipe. For the trip, you need to provide 60l of water per vehicle for showers, 20l of good, clean water for the kitchen, and as much water as you want to drink. We bought the kitchen and drinking water at Pick ‘n Pay.
Our last stop was at the Aquarium in Swakopmund – this is where the offices are where you can purchase a fishing permit. If you want to fish on the trip, or at all in Namibia, you will need a fishing permit. It is dirt cheap, so just get one – it is the right thing to do and you don’t want to risk getting into a dodgy situation where your equipment may be confiscated.
Then it was finally time to Tetris everything into the vehicles. It is strange how much disagreement there can be between people on how to pack. I think the anticipation of the trip becomes real at this point, and everyone just wants to make sure that things go well.
So, one that hour or two elapsed, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at the “Altstadt” restaurant. We spotted a place on our way in, and this turned out to be a gem. Good food, and those same ice-cold Hansa’s.
Tomorrow the rubber hits the road!
Skeleton Coast 2025 #1: Introduction
Skeleton Coast 2025 #2: Getting there
Skeleton Coast 2025 #3: Swakopmund – old German charm
Skeleton Coast 2025 #4: Through the mist to somewhere north of Terrace Bay
Skeleton Coast 2025 #5: Up towards Angra Fria
Skeleton Coast 2025 #6: Across the dune belt and into Hartmansvallei
Skeleton Coast 2025 #7: Down to Purros and Sesfontein