Swakopmund: Living Desert Tour - Namib Desert
Namibia
At a glance
Type
Local tip
Discover the unique creatures of the Namib Desert on a guided tour from Swakopmund. Learn about the evolutionary adaptations of desert animals and explore the history of the area.
Highlights
- Discover the unique creatures that inhabit the Namib Desert dunes
- Learn about the evolutionary adaptations of desert animals
- Explore the Horse Graveyard, a site of historical significance
- See the Namib Sand-diving Lizard, Webfooted Gecko, and more
- Learn about the minerals found in the dunes and their formation
Description
Explore the eastern part of the major dune belt between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Learn about the unique adaptations of the creatures that live in this harsh environment. Search for animals like the Namib Sand-diving Lizard, Webfooted Gecko, Namaqua Chameleon, Peringuey's Adder (Sidewinder), Namib Sand Snake, Namib thick-tailed Scorpion, the fog-basking Tenebrionid Beetle, and several other insects. Walk through a place known as 'The Horse Graveyard', where the mass slaughter of South African military horses marked the turning point of Namibia's involvement in the First World War. Learn about the minerals found in the dunes, the formation of the dunes, and the importance of the coastal fog to all the living organisms and vegetation found along the dunes. Depending on rainfall, you may also encounter birds like Tractrac Chat, Red-capped Larks, Gray's Lark, Stark's Lark, Burchell's Courser, Ludwig's Bustard, Rock Kestrel, and Rufous-eared Warbler.Includes
Guided tour (drive) of the eastern part of the major dune belt Explanation of the evolutionary aspects and uniqueness of adaptations Search for desert-adapted creatures Light snack and refreshments Refreshments & complimentary cookies Visit to 'The Horse Graveyard' Description of minerals found in the dunes Explanation of dune formation and importance of coastal fog Bird watching depending on rainfallImportant Information
- In winter its wise to dress warmly as the desert can get very cold, especially early mornings. A hat and comfortable walking shoes is also advisable as we will spend some time walking and in the sun.
