About The Stiltz
Right on the edge of Swakopmund, The Stiltz overlooks the mouth of the Swakop River and has spectacular views ...
... over the dunes or the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of these views and a quirky design make it a unique place to stay in Swakopmund.
The Stiltz is very different to other lodges in Swakopmund, with a quiet, slightly out-of-town location that makes it an attraction in its own right – although it is only a few minutes' walk or drive from the town centre.
Our view
The Stiltz is very different to other lodges in Swakopmund, with a quiet, slightly out-of-town location that makes it an attraction in its own right – although it is only a few minutes' walk or drive from the town centre.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
9 chalets, 2 villas
Children
Best for 6+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Dune-boarding
Fishing
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Private activities
Quad-biking
Traveller reviews of The Stiltz
68 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryThe Stiltz: Our full report
Right on the edge of Swakopmund, The Stiltz overlooks the mouth of the Swakop River and has spectacular views ...
... over the dunes or the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of these views and a quirky design make it a unique place to stay in Swakopmund.
The Stiltz has nine high-quality wooden chalets and two villas, all standing high on stilts above the riverbed, and four with sea views. Clean and comfortable, they have thatched roofs and small balconies overlooking the riverbed. Inside, fresh flowers and brightly coloured curtains, bedspreads and cushions brighten up the wooden walls, and slightly quirky fittings add an unconventional touch. (The hand behind The Stiltz was the same as that behind Swakopmund's renowned restaurant, The Tug – which displays similar quirks of design.)
Each of the rooms has a fan and heating, and a heated blanket on the bed for those cold winter nights, but no air conditioning (this is not generally needed in Swakopmund). In some, there is a small lounge area with a sofa positioned in front of a large window, and a tea and coffee station. The en-suite bathroom has a large shower and fluffy towels, and soap is provided. An honesty bar can also be found in each of the rooms with beers, spirits and soft drinks and WiFi is available in the rooms as well as the central areas.
Wooden walkways link The Stiltz’s rooms to a bright and cheery breakfast room, also up on stilts, where guests can watch the scenery, and the birds, while they eat. Though apparently infrequently used, there is also a small, informal sitting area for guests to use.
In the reception area – at ground level rather than on stilts – helpful and friendly staff can book activities and local restaurants in Swakopmund.
The Stiltz doesn't feel like a town lodge, especially if you stay in one of the far rooms, from which you can hear only the waves and the wind. Although you can see the main Swakopmund–Walvis Bay road in the distance, it cannot be heard over the waves – and the birds are a far greater attraction.
As you'd expect from somewhere on the edge of town, the surrounding area isn't lit at night. We've never viewed this as a problem – in fact we think it's quite nice! – but it does mean that most people would probably drive the relatively short distance to a restaurant in town, rather than walk.
Geographics
- Location
- Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- A two- or three-night stay is recommended if you wish to partake of the activities available in Swakopmund and neighbouring Walvis Bay.
- Directions
- The Stiltz lies by the sea at the southernmost point of Swakopmund, at the end of The Strand.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- A substantial buffet breakfast, served from 7.00am to 9.30am, usually consists of cereal, yoghurt, cold meats, cheeses and toast, served with tea and coffee, as well as bacon and eggs cooked to order, .
The Stiltz doesn't serve food in the evening, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in town and the team will gladly help with arranging restaurant bookings. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of any age are welcome at The Stiltz.
- Property’s age restrictions
- The Stiltz does not have any minimum age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- No cots or highchairs are available.
- Generally recommended for children
- Although children of all ages are welcome, there are no facilities such as cots or highchairs provided. In addition, the walkways are about 3.5m above the ground, so we believe that The Stiltz is probably best suited to older children.
- Notes
- Children and adults alike need to take care on the high walkways, which can be particularly slippery in the mist or when it rains. Children must be supervised by their parents at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is no backup if the mains power fails. There are plug points in each chalet for charging electrical equipment.
- Communications
- There is cellphone reception at The Stiltz. Complimentary WiFi is available to guests.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- Water is solar heated. One villa has a bathtub, and the rest have showers, which are all plumbed in. The Stiltz has flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- There are doctors and a hospital in town.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There is one security guard at night, usually on duty between 6.00pm and 6.00am. Each room has a ‘panic’ button to alert the night guard in an emergency. (This only works when the guard is on duty.)
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are present in all rooms and fire hoses are located along the wooden walkways.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Dune-boarding
Fishing
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Private activities
Quad-biking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available for an extra charge.
- Money
- The Stiltz does not offer a currency-exchange facility. There is a small safe in each chalet.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and MasterCard are accepted, but Amex and travellers' cheques are not. Cash is accepted in Namibian dollars or South African rands.
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The Stiltz's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of The Stiltz.
Excursions from The Stiltz
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at The Stiltz. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Coast and Sandwich Harbour
Full day
Experience this usually inaccessible part of the Skeleton Coast, where the dunes of the Namib plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. One of our top recommendations, this is an adventurous 4WD trip, guided by experts. You'll explore the Kuiseb Delta and (tides permitting) traverse dunes and the beach to reach Sandwich Harbour, a remote freshwater lagoon with abundant birdlife.
More about Coastal tour
Desert tour
Variable, depending on the tour
Discover the unexpected on a trip into the desert surrounding the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. A must for wilderness lovers, this extraordinary landscape encompasses the Welwitschia Plains, sculpted dunes, the magic of the Kuiseb Delta – and much more. There are plenty of options, each with its own unique focus.
More about Desert tour
Dolphin and seal cruise
Half-day inc brunch
A boat cruise around Walvis Bay lagoon is a must for lovers of wildlife and the great outdoors. Seek out the ‘marine big five’ – from Cape fur seals to bottlenose dolphins – and marvel at the range of bird species for whom this haven on the Skeleton Coast is home. Then round off the morning with an oyster brunch.
More about Dolphin & seal cruise
Kayaking with seals
Morning incl. tea, coffee & sandwiches
Get up close and personal with a colony of Cape fur seals on a kayaking excursion from Walvis Bay. Enjoy a gentle morning’s paddle in Walvis Bay Lagoon as seals surround and interact with you and your kayak. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of some Heaviside’s or bottlenose dolphins.
More about Kayaking with seals
Scenic flights in Namibia
Variable, depending on the flight
Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.
More about Scenic flightsOther lodges in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Strand Hotel
One of the larger hotels in Swakopmund, the Strand is well-placed on the seafront with good access to restaurants and the centre of town.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund Guesthouse
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
Swakopmund Sands
The relatively substantial Swakopmund Sands Hotel lies in a quiet area of the town, close to the beach yet within walking distance of tourist amenities.
When to go to Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit The Stiltz in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in January
Swakopmund and Walvis Bay experience their rainy season in January, though precipitation remains minimal in these coastal desert towns. Temperatures hover around 25°C/77°F, with occasional cloudy days. The Namib Naukluft National Park near Swakopmund showcases a refreshing green landscape, contrasting with its usual arid appearance.
Birdwatching is excellent at the Walvis Bay Lagoon, with many species in breeding plumage. Migrant birds are abundant, making it an ideal time for ornithologists. The Cape Cross Seal Colony north of Swakopmund is bustling with activity as seal pups grow rapidly.
While wildlife viewing in the desert areas can be challenging due to dispersed animals, coastal attractions like dolphin watching tours from Walvis Bay are popular.
- Variable coastal weather, often foggy mornings
- Flamingos abundant at Walvis Bay Lagoon
- Peak tourism season, book activities in advance
- Ideal for beach activities and dune exploration
- Marine tours offer chances to see dolphin pods
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in February
February is the wettest month in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, but rainfall is still limited. Temperatures remain pleasant, averaging 24°C/75°F. The landscape around the towns, including the Moon Landscape in the Namib Naukluft National Park, shows signs of life with sparse vegetation. The Walvis Bay Lagoon teems with flamingos and pelicans, offering spectacular birdwatching opportunities.
February is an excellent time for boat tours from Walvis Bay to spot dolphins and seals. The Swakopmund Museum provides a cool retreat on hotter days, showcasing the region's natural history. Adventure activities like sandboarding on the dunes near Swakopmund are popular, though it's wise to start early to avoid midday heat. The Dorob National Park between the towns offers unique desert-meets-sea landscapes.
- Warm days, cooler nights along the coast
- Bird watching excellent at Walvis Bay Lagoon
- Water sports popular in Swakopmund
- Desert tours showcase unique flora and fauna
- Fewer tourists, but still busy in coastal towns
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in March
As rains taper off, March in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay sees clearer skies and temperatures around 23°C/73°F. The desert landscapes, including the famous Dune 7 near Walvis Bay, are often at their most picturesque.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon remains a hotspot for birdwatching, with many species preparing for migration. Boat tours from Walvis Bay offer chances to see dolphins, seals, and possibly the last of the season's whales. The cooling Atlantic makes beach activities pleasant, and the Swakopmund Jetty offers beautiful sunset views.
March is ideal for exploring the unique flora of the Namib, including the ancient Welwitschia plants.
- Pleasant temperatures, occasional fog patches
- Marine wildlife tours in full swing
- Desert blooms possible after late rains
- Shoulder season begins, rates may decrease
- Fewer tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in April
April marks the transition to drier weather in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, with temperatures around 22°C/72°F.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon sees the arrival of migratory birds, adding to its already rich avian diversity. April is an excellent time for desert tours, including visits to the Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Plains. The Cape Cross Seal Colony north of Swakopmund offers great wildlife viewing as seal pups become more active.
- Cooler weather, ideal for outdoor activities
- Bird migration begins at Walvis Bay Lagoon
- Namib Desert tours offer stunning landscapes
- Easter holidays can bring increased visitors
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in May
May in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay brings cooler temperatures, averaging around 20°C/68°F, and very dry conditions. The desert landscapes, including the Dorob National Park, offer breathtaking views with exceptional air clarity, perfect for photography. Wildlife viewing in the surrounding areas improves as animals concentrate around water sources.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon remains a prime spot for birdwatching, with both resident and migratory species present. May is an ideal time for scenic flights over the Namib Desert and coast. Adventure activities like sandboarding on the dunes near Swakopmund are popular due to comfortable temperatures.
- Cool, crisp days with frequent morning fog
- Excellent conditions for desert photography
- Whale watching season starts to pick up
- Fewer tourists
- Scenic flights over Sandwich Harbour popular
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in June
June brings cooler weather to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, with daytime temperatures around 18°C/64°F and cold nights.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon is excellent for birdwatching, with flamingos and pelicans easily spotted. June marks the start of the whale watching season, with boat tours from Walvis Bay offering chances to see these marine giants. The cooler weather is perfect for desert adventures like quad biking or visiting the Moon Landscape. Sandwich Harbour tours from Walvis Bay showcase the dramatic meeting of desert and sea.
- Cold mornings, mild afternoons on the coast
- Prime time for whale watching excursions
- Dune activities like sandboarding at their best
- Low season, good deals on accommodation
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in July
July in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay sees cool temperatures, averaging 17°C/63°F, with cold nights.
It's peak season for whale watching, with boat tours from Walvis Bay offering excellent sightings. The Walvis Bay Lagoon teems with birdlife, including large flocks of flamingos. Desert tours to the Namib Naukluft National Park are popular, with the cool weather perfect for exploring dunes and gravel plains. The Cape Cross Seal Colony north of Swakopmund is bustling with activity.
The clear winter skies offer stunning stargazing opportunities in the desert areas around both towns.
- Cold coastal weather, bundle up for activities
- Peak season for marine wildlife viewing
- Desert adventures offer warm daytime escapes
- School holidays bring families to the coast
- Book popular activities well in advance
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in August
August brings cool, dry conditions to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, with temperatures around 16°C/61°F. August is peak tourist season, so accommodation can fill up months in advance.
It's prime time for whale watching tours from Walvis Bay, with frequent humpback and southern right whale sightings. The Walvis Bay Lagoon hosts large numbers of flamingos and other water birds. Desert excursions to the Namib Naukluft National Park are popular, with the cool weather ideal for exploring. The Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Plains near Swakopmund offer unique desert scenery. The Cape Cross Seal Colony north of Swakopmund is lively with seal activity.
- Cool coastal climate, warm in the desert
- Excellent month for whale watching tours
- Sandwich Harbour 4WD tours highly popular
- High season continues, expect busy attractions
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in September
September in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay sees warming temperatures, averaging around 18°C/64°F, with clear skies. It's an excellent month for wildlife viewing, especially whale watching tours from Walvis Bay. The Walvis Bay Lagoon is filled with flamingos and other birds preparing for migration. The Swakopmund Jetty provides beautiful ocean views, especially at sunset. .Sandwich Harbour tours from Walvis Bay showcase the dramatic desert-meets-sea landscape.
September is ideal for exploring the unique flora of the Namib, including the ancient Welwitschia plants. Desert tours to the Namib Naukluft National Park offer spectacular scenery and improved chances of spotting desert-adapted wildlife. Adventure activities like sandboarding and quad biking in the dunes are popular.
- Weather warming up, less morning fog
- Bird migration begins at Walvis Bay Lagoon
- Shoulder season starts, crowds thin out
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in October
October brings warmer weather to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, with temperatures around 20°C/68°F. It's the last month for whale watching tours from Walvis Bay, offering final chances to spot these marine giants.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon sees peak flamingo numbers as migratory birds arrive. Desert safaris to the Namib Naukluft National Park are popular, with wildlife congregating around remaining water sources. Adventure activities like sandboarding and quad biking in the dunes are in high demand.
October is ideal for exploring the Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Plains near Swakopmund. Boat tours from Walvis Bay offer opportunities to see dolphins and seals. The Cape Cross Seal Colony north of Swakopmund is bustling with activity as breeding season approaches.
- Warmer days, perfect for beach activities
- Last chance for whale watching this season
- Kayaking with seals popular in Walvis Bay
- Tourism slows, good time for relaxed visits
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in November
November in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay sees rising temperatures, averaging 22°C/72°F, with occasional cloudy days. The landscape begins to change as the possibility of rain increases.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon is a hive of activity with both resident and migratory birds present in large numbers. Desert tours to the Namib Naukluft National Park offer chances to see wildlife adapting to the changing season. Adventure activities like sandboarding and quad biking remain popular.
The Swakopmund Jetty provides a perfect spot for watching spectacular sunsets. November marks the start of the seal breeding season at the Cape Cross Seal Colony. Boat tours from Walvis Bay provide opportunities to see dolphins and seals in their natural habitat.
- Summer begins, temperatures rise steadily
- Flamingo numbers increase at the lagoon
- Water sports gain popularity in Swakopmund
- Low season offers great value for visitors
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay in December
December brings warmer weather to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, with temperatures around 23°C/73°F and occasional short thunderstorms. The peak holiday season (20 December to 10 January) brings a festive atmosphere to both towns, with various events and activities.
The desert landscapes, including the Namib Naukluft National Park, may show signs of new life if early rains occur. The Walvis Bay Lagoon is filled with flamingos and other water birds, offering excellent birdwatching. December is peak breeding season at the Cape Cross Seal Colony, with thousands of seals crowding the shore.
Beach activities become popular as temperatures rise. Adventure sports are in high demand. Boat tours from Walvis Bay provide opportunities to see dolphins and seals.
- Warm coastal weather, busy holiday season
- Beach activities in full swing at Long Beach
- Christmas markets enliven Swakopmund streets
- Walvis Bay boat tours offer marine encounters
- Book early for festive season activities
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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