Exploring the Swakop River

Take a tour along the Swakop River to experience stunning landscapes and the region's natural beauty.
Nikanor Nangolo
    - 2023-10-31 00:00:00
The 460 km Swakop River is considered to be a major river in the western and central areas of Namibia.
From its source in the Khomas Hochland, the river flows west through Okahandja and the settlement of Otjimbingwe, where it crosses the Namib desert and reaches the ocean at Swakopmund.
Running off roughly 40 million cubic metres per annum, the Swakop is an ephemeral river, making it an attraction for the locals as well as visitors on the seldom occasions that the river reaches the Atlantic.
However, there are a number of other attractions along it's banks.

Nonidas
When exploring this magnificent river, one finds places such as the Nonidas Castle, a former customs facility turned into a hotel. At Nonidas one can enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding the river in comfort.

Rossmund
The river also runs through Rossmund, an estate and golf club on the outskirts of Swakopmund. If you are looking to take a walk to see the Swakop riverbed, then the Rössmund Golf Resort and Lodge is one of the best places to do so. The lodge is great for golfers, but not limited to players only. It caters for anyone looking for comfortable, quiet, quality accommodation. From here activities such as horse and camel rides can be arranged, as well as reservations made for eateries located on the plots along the Swakop river. From the lodge, you can also take a walk to the ocean, the sand dunes or along the Swakop River.

Goanikontes
Another great spot to view the Swakop River from is at Goanikontes Oasis. This resort and campsite is situated 50 m from the Swakop River and around 40 km from Swakopmund. Apart from the river, views of the beautiful Moon Landscape can also be enjoyed from here. Goanikontes Oasis offers comfortable bungalows, each with its own braai facility. In addition, there are twelve shady campsites, also each with its own braai facilities, and toilets as well as showers. The establishment also provides an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch.