TOP
Exploring Tourism in Namibia
Namibia
icon Worldwideicon
Places to Visit Details

Luderitz

Windhoek, Namibia

Lüderitz

Lüderitz is located along the coast in southern Namibia and is probably the most unique town in Namibia. 

Originally named *Angra Pequena* (small bay) by the famous Portuguese explorer Bartholomeu Dias in 1488, it was re-named Lüderitz in 1884.

Lüderitz is located directly on the shores of Lüderitz Bay facing the Atlantic Ocean and forms a barrier between the towering coastal dunes of the Namib Desert to the north, and the unforgiving rocky coastline to the south.

Lüderitz is a colourful fishing harbour town with many interesting early 20th century German Art Nouveau buildings.  The nearby world renowned Kolmanskop Ghost Diamond Town allows you the opportunity to see and experience what life was once like in this harsh desert landscape. 

Back in 1912, *Kolmanskuppe* was one of the richest towns on the planet with its own millionaire’s row, large outdoor swimming pool, bowling alley, hospital, entertainment hall and ice making factory! The first X-ray machine in the southern hemisphere was introduced here as well as the first tram in Africa. Daily guided tours are on offer.

Lüderitz is also famous for its delicious fresh seafood; lobster, oyster and the much sought after abalone (Cape Perlemoen).

From the colourful fishing harbour and its small waterfront complex, there are daily marine cruises to see Dias Cross, outlying islands with Namibia’s largest colony of African Penguins (Halifax Island), Heaviside Dolphins, Cape Fur Seals (Seal Island) and sometimes whales.

Desert adventure activities are available including; 4x4 Guided and 4x4 self-drive tours into the vast Namib Naukluft Park to the north and the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet National Park) to the south.  The Tsau //Khaeb covers a large area of 26000km2 and contains over 2300 endemic succulents – the world’s top region for succulents found nowhere else. 

The spectacular 59 metre high Bogenfels (coastal rock arch) is also located in the Tsau //Khaeb and is included in a full day 4 x 4 guided tour with the Pomona ghost diamond town and factory en-route. 

For the extreme adventure seeker, the annual Lüderitz Speed Challenge is the world’s PREMIER kite and wind surfing speed sailing event which takes place every year between November to December.  Since 2007 many world and national records have been broken. 

Lüderitz can easily be reached by good tarred roads from Windhoek or via frequent Air Namibia flights from Hosea Kutako International Airport.  Various accommodation establishments are available including one of Namibia’s leading four star hotels.

To fully appreciate what Lüderitz has on offer, a minimum two night stay is recommended.

 

 

 

 

 

Check out more Places to Visit