Swakopmund
ISO3: NAM
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: Africa/Windhoek
"Swakopmund - Wo die Wüste das Meer trifft | Swakopmund - Where the desert meets the sea"
-22.6744° S, 14.5272° E
About:
Swakopmund, Namibia, was founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa. It was a small settlement until the construction of the Otavi railway in 1902. After Namibia's independence in 1990, Swakopmund transformed into a holiday resort and has grown significantly due to tourism and retirement industries. The city retains a strong German influence, visible in its architecture and culture. Today, Swakopmund is Namibia's fourth largest population centre and an important hub of the country's fishing industry.
When to visit:
Swakopmund, a coastal city in Namibia, experiences a mild desert climate characterized by cool temperatures and low precipitation levels throughout the year. The peak tourist season in Swakopmund typically occurs during the austral summer months of November to February, when visitors can enjoy warmer temperatures and participate in various outdoor activities such as sandboarding and quad biking. However, some travelers may prefer to visit during the winter months of June to August when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Ultimately, the best time to visit Swakopmund depends on individual preferences and desired activities, as the city offers unique experiences year-round.
When to avoid:
Swakopmund, located on the coast of Namibia, experiences a mild desert climate characterized by cool temperatures and low precipitation. The worst time to travel to Swakopmund on a holiday would be during the Southern Hemisphere summer months of December to February. These months bring hot temperatures, strong winds, and increased tourist crowds to the area, making it less enjoyable for visitors seeking a more relaxed and comfortable experience. Travelers looking to avoid the peak tourist season and extreme heat may consider visiting during the cooler winter months from June to August.
"Winter (May–September)"
Swakopmund, Namibia, experiences its warmest period from November to April, with the hottest month typically being February. During this time, daytime temperatures usually range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), although occasional heatwaves can push temperatures slightly higher. Nights are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall is relatively low in Swakopmund, even during the warmest part of the year. The city is located in a desert region, so most months are quite dry. However, there can be occasional rain showers from January to April, with February and March being the wettest months, although "wet" in this context means an average of just 20mm of rainfall for the month.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 10 to 12 hours of daylight per day. The skies are generally clear or lightly clouded, providing plenty of sunshine.
Humidity in Swakopmund is generally low, due to the desert climate. However, it can increase slightly during the warmest part of the year, especially when there's a sea breeze from the nearby Atlantic Ocean.
A typical day for a visitor during this time would be warm and sunny, with a light breeze. The mornings and evenings can be cooler, so it's a good idea to have a light jacket or sweater. Despite the occasional rainfall, the weather is generally good for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and beach activities.
"Summer (December–February)"
Swakopmund, Namibia, experiences its warmest period from November to April, with the hottest month typically being February. During this time, daytime temperatures usually range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), although occasional heatwaves can push temperatures slightly higher. Nights are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall is relatively low in Swakopmund, even during the warmest part of the year. The city is located in a desert region, so most months are quite dry. However, there can be occasional rain showers from January to April, with February and March being the wettest months, although "wet" in this context means an average of just 20mm of rainfall for the month.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 10 to 12 hours of daylight per day. The skies are generally clear or lightly clouded, providing plenty of sunshine.
Humidity in Swakopmund is generally low, due to the desert climate. However, it can increase slightly during the warmest part of the year, especially when there's a sea breeze from the nearby Atlantic Ocean.
A typical day for a visitor during this time would be warm and sunny, with a light breeze. The mornings and evenings can be cooler, so it's a good idea to have a light jacket or sweater. Despite the occasional rainfall, the weather is generally good for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and beach activities.
Language:
german
Swakopmund, a city in Namibia, predominantly speaks Afrikaans, which is used in business and public life. English, the official language of Namibia, is also widely spoken and understood. Other languages include German, due to historical ties, and indigenous languages such as Oshiwambo, Damara, and Herero. The city's linguistic diversity reflects its multicultural heritage.