Exploring the Mystique of Namibia's Skeleton Coast

Seabirds, Seafood, and Swakopmund Nights

Today was a fascinating blend of nature, local flavors, and coastal charm. From the unique experience of visiting a man-made island teeming with birdlife to indulging in the town's culinary offerings and vibrant nightlife, Swakopmund certainly knows how to keep a traveler engaged. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you're exploring a place as captivating as the Skeleton Coast.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Villa Margherita Boutique Hotel & Restaurant. Ana and I enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel's courtyard, a little oasis of calm before we set off to explore. The coffee was indeed better than any I've had so far in Swakopmund, as some reviews had suggested. The hotel's charm is undeniable, a blend of historic colonial architecture and modern comfort. I can see why it's a popular choice for travelers seeking a centrally located and quiet retreat.


Experience luxury and relaxation at Villa Margherita Boutique Hotel & Restaurant in Swakopmund – where exquisite dining meets comfort.

After breakfast, we headed north of Swakopmund, towards Walvis Bay, to see Bird Island. This man-made platform is quite a sight, constructed to provide a breeding ground for seabirds and a source of guano. I learned that it was the brainchild of Adolf Winter, a German who saw an opportunity in the guano deposits. The scale of the platform is impressive; it has grown over the years to 17,000 square meters. The air was thick with the smell of guano, a truly unforgettable aroma. It's incredible to think that this seemingly desolate spot contributes significantly to the fertilizer industry, with the guano being exported to Belgium.


Explore Bird Island in Namibia, a birdwatcher's paradise offering stunning views and diverse wildlife in a serene coastal setting.

    

Sometimes the most unexpected places hold the greatest stories and the most vital resources.

Back in Swakopmund, we were ready for lunch. Francesco Restaurant was our choice, and it didn't disappoint. The restaurant had a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a midday meal. I opted for a seafood dish, eager to sample the local flavors. Ana chose a lighter salad, and we shared a bottle of crisp Namibian white wine. It was a delightful interlude, watching the town bustle by as we enjoyed our meal.


Discover Francesco Restaurant in Windhoek - where Mediterranean flavors meet Italian culinary excellence in a cozy bistro setting.

In the late afternoon, before dinner, we decided to try Brewer & Butcher. It’s located at the Strand Hotel. The place was buzzing with activity. As a beer enthusiast, I was keen to sample their home-brewed offerings. I went for the Helles beer, while my friends tried the Märzen and Weiss beer. The atmosphere was lively, and it was a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Brewer & Butcher seems to be a popular spot for both locals and tourists, drawn by its combination of refreshing beer and hearty meat dishes. The location, right on the oceanfront, adds to its appeal.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Namibian cuisine at Brewer & Butcher, a pub that blends local traditions with a welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we had reservations at The Raft Restaurant in Walvis Bay. It’s built on stilts at the end of a jetty in the Walvis Bay Lagoon. The views were stunning, especially as the sun began to set. The restaurant has a unique ambiance, with wooden floors made from old timbers of the original Walvis Bay jetty. We enjoyed a seafood feast, with fresh catches of the day prepared in a variety of styles. I tried the fish trio, which included monkfish, butterfish, and kingklip. It was a great way to sample the local fish and discover my favorites. Ana was delighted to see flamingos near the windows. Despite some mixed reviews I had seen, our experience was largely positive. The service was attentive, and the food was delicious.


Experience exquisite dining at The Raft Restaurant on Walvis Bay's Skeleton Coast with breathtaking ocean views and delicious local cuisine.

After dinner, we returned to Swakopmund and decided to experience some of the local nightlife. We ended up at Brewer & Butcher again, drawn back by its lively atmosphere and excellent beer selection. The place was even more vibrant than it had been in the afternoon, with live music and a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. I felt a sense of connection with the town and its people, a feeling that often comes when you immerse yourself in the local culture.

As I reflect on the day, I'm struck by the diversity of experiences Swakopmund has to offer. From the industrial yet fascinating Bird Island to the culinary delights of its restaurants and the lively atmosphere of its bars, there's something for everyone here. And it's not just about the activities themselves, but also about the people you meet and the stories you hear along the way. These are the things that make a trip truly memorable.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Sandwich Harbour [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I've heard it's a breathtaking spot where the dunes meet the ocean, and I'm eager to capture its beauty through my lens. I'm also looking forward to trying some more local cuisine and perhaps even experiencing some of Swakopmund's other nightlife options, maybe Club Salt [see tomorrow's itinerary].

Before I turn in for the night, I need to double-check my gear. I'm realizing that I should have packed a sandproof phone case, given how much time we're spending in sandy environments. And perhaps an extra layer of warm clothing wouldn't go amiss either, as the coastal winds can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

Despite these minor oversights, I'm feeling grateful for the experiences I've had so far on this trip. The Skeleton Coast is a truly unique and captivating destination, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.

I’m also starting to appreciate the slower pace of life here. Back in Zurich, my days are often filled with back-to-back meetings and deadlines. Here, time seems to stretch out, allowing for moments of reflection and connection. Maybe that’s the real magic of travel – the opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.