Eco Marine Kayak Tours offers an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful lagoon of Walvis Bay, Namibia. Visitors can paddle alongside playful Cape Fur Seals while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
This top-rated activity provides a unique way to experience the marine life and natural beauty of Namibia’s Atlantic coast.
The tour starts in Walvis Bay, about 45 minutes from Swakopmund. Guests are driven to Pelican Point where they board kayaks for a guided excursion.
During the roughly 2.5-hour kayak trip, participants often spot seals, dolphins, and many types of seabirds.
After paddling, guests enjoy a picnic on the beach. The entire outing lasts around 5 hours, making it a perfect day trip from Swakopmund or Walvis Bay.
With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, Eco Marine Kayak Tours offers an intimate eco-friendly way to explore this special marine environment.
Exploring the Beauty of Pelican Point
Pelican Point offers a stunning coastal landscape teeming with wildlife. Its iconic lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history. Visitors can experience the area’s natural wonders and cultural significance up close.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
Pelican Point is home to a thriving Cape Fur Seal colony. These playful creatures can be seen lounging on the beaches and swimming in the bay.
Dolphins often visit the area, delighting kayakers with their acrobatic displays.
Bird enthusiasts will spot pelicans, cormorants, and flamingos. The protected lagoon provides a safe haven for various marine species.
Kayak tours allow visitors to get close to the wildlife without disturbing their natural habitat.
The area’s unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of plants and animals. Careful conservation efforts help maintain this delicate balance.
Historical Significance of the Lighthouse
The Pelican Point Lighthouse has guided ships since 1932. It stands 34 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Walvis Bay.
The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime safety during World War II. It helped Allied ships navigate the treacherous coastline.
Today, the lighthouse remains an important navigational aid. It also serves as a popular landmark for tourists and photographers.
Visitors can learn about the lighthouse’s history and its role in local maritime traditions. The structure’s enduring presence symbolizes the area’s rich nautical heritage.
Discovering the Inhabitants of Walvis Bay Lagoon
Walvis Bay Lagoon teems with diverse wildlife. The protected waters provide a haven for many bird and marine species throughout the year.
Bird Species and Seasonal Variations
Flamingos are one of the lagoon’s most iconic residents. Large flocks of these pink birds can be seen wading in the shallow waters, filtering tiny creatures from the mud. Their numbers fluctuate with the seasons.
Pelicans also call the lagoon home. These large seabirds dive for fish and can often be spotted resting on sandbanks or flying low over the water.
Cormorants are common year-round. They dive for fish and can be seen drying their wings on rocks or pylons after swimming.
Many migratory birds visit the lagoon. Arctic terns make an incredible journey from the northern hemisphere each year. Waders like sandpipers and plovers feed along the shoreline.
Marine Life Encounters
The lagoon supports a rich variety of marine life. Benguela dolphins are frequent visitors. These playful mammals often swim alongside boats and kayaks.
Cape fur seals inhabit the area. They can be seen basking on beaches or frolicking in the water. Kayakers may get close views of these curious animals.
Fish species like mullet and steenbras attract both birds and larger predators. The rare Mola Mola, or ocean sunfish, sometimes enters the lagoon.
Smaller creatures like crabs, jellyfish, and various shellfish thrive in the protected waters. They form an important part of the lagoon’s food web.
Kayaking Adventures in Swakopmund
Swakopmund offers exciting kayaking tours where visitors can get up close to marine life. Guided trips provide a safe way to explore the coast and spot dolphins and seals.
Choosing the Right Kayak Tour
Many companies run kayak trips in Swakopmund. Eco Marine Kayak Tours is a top-rated option. They take small groups to Pelican Point in Walvis Bay. The trip lasts about 5 hours with 2-3 hours of paddling time.
Beginners can join as the kayaking is easy. Tours use single and double kayaks. Groups are kept small, with 2-12 people per trip. This allows for a more personal experience.
Some tours focus on seeing seals, while others may spot dolphins too. Pick a tour that matches your interests and skill level.
Preparation and Safety Tips
Dress for the weather. Bring:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Water
- Snacks
- Camera (waterproof if possible)
Listen to the guide’s safety talk. They will explain how to paddle and what to do if you capsize. Wear the life jacket provided.
The Atlantic can be cold. Many tours provide wetsuits. Ask in advance if you need to bring your own warm layers.
Be ready for an early start. Most tours leave around 8 AM to catch the calmest water. The drive to the launch site takes about 45 minutes.
A Journey Through the Atlantic Waters
Eco Marine Kayak Tours offers a unique adventure along Namibia’s coast. Guests explore the waters near Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, seeing wildlife up close.
Onboard Experiences and Amenities
The tour starts with a scenic drive to Pelican Point. Guests board kayaks or catamarans for their ocean trip. Guides give safety tips and share facts about the area.
Some tours offer light snacks and drinks. Guests can bring cameras to capture the views. The boats are stable and easy to paddle. Life jackets are provided for safety.
Fishing trips are also available. Anglers can try to catch local fish species. Gear is often included in the package.
Interaction with Marine Wildlife
The waters teem with sea life. Kayakers often see playful Cape fur seals swimming nearby. Dolphins sometimes pop up next to the boats.
During the right season, whales may be spotted in the distance. Flamingos and pelicans are common sights along the shore.
Knowledgeable guides point out different animals. They explain the behaviors and habits of each species. Guests learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.
Tours respect wildlife. Boats keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals.
What Travelers Say: Reviews and Recommendations
Eco Marine Kayak Tours gets high marks from visitors. Many call it a must-do activity in Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Guests rave about the amazing wildlife encounters and stunning views.
Best Practices for Authentic Reviews
When writing reviews, be specific about your experience. Mention things like the wildlife you saw, the guide’s knowledge, and how smooth the kayaking was. Give details on the time of day, weather, and water conditions. Note any special moments, like seals swimming up to your kayak.
Share both pros and cons to help other travelers. Did you feel safe? Was the gear in good shape? How was the pickup service? Honest feedback helps the tour company improve too.
Rate different aspects like value, service, and overall enjoyment. This gives a full picture of the tour quality.
Capturing the Experience: Photo Tips
Bring a waterproof camera or phone case. The splashing water and curious seals can get quite close!
Try to capture wide shots of the coastline and bay. These show the beauty of the area.
For wildlife photos, use burst mode to catch fast-moving seals and jackals. Early morning tours often have the best light for photos.
The calm water acts like a mirror, creating stunning reflections.
Don’t forget to snap some shots of your group in action. These personal photos will bring back great memories of your kayaking adventure.
