Walvis Bay, Namibia

Colonial Swakopmund

German Influence and Coastal Charm Immerse yourself in desert landscapes, colonial buildings and the German-inspired ambience of Swakopmund. Set out on a panoramic drive to this coastal city, founded by German colonists in 1892. Here, view the early 19th-century architecture of the neobaroque German Evangelical Lutheran Church, which was built in 1906 and still holds regular services. The Kaiserliches Bezirksgericht (State House) was also constructed during the early 1900s, to serve as the district magistrates’ court, and then extended with the addition of a tower in 1945. After World War I, it was converted into the territorial administrator’s official vacation home, and in keeping with that tradition, it is now the official Swakopmund residence of the president. Call at the Swakopmund Museum, the largest privately run museum in Namibia, and visit a local crafts market before returning to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.