Cape Cross Seal Reserve - Discovering Namibia

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Travelling to Cape Cross Seal Reserve

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cape Cross Seal Reserve, a pretty good destination in Namibia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cape Cross Seal Reserve and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cape Cross Seal Reserve, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Namibia, here's everything to know about Cape Cross Seal Reserve for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a protected area located on the west coast of Namibia. It is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world, with an estimated population of around 200,000 seals. The reserve was established in 1968 to protect the seal colony and their breeding habitat. Visitors can observe the seals up close from a viewing platform, and there is also a small museum and gift shop on site. The nearest town is Henties Bay, which is approximately 60km south of the reserve.

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Travelling to Cape Cross Seal Reserve and around: discovering Namibia

What to visit in Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Cape Cross Seal Reserve is located along the Skeleton Coast in Namibia and is home to the largest colony of Cape fur seals in the world. The main attraction of the reserve is, of course, the seals, but there are also other sights to be seen: 1. Cape Cross Seal Colony: The colony is home to an estimated 200,000 Cape fur seals who gather here to breed, give birth and socialize on the rocky beach. Visitors can watch the seals, take pictures, and observe their behavior from designated viewing areas.
2. Cross of Dias: This is the oldest European monument in Africa, built in 1486 by the Portuguese navigator, Diego Cão, to mark his visit to the area.
3. Bird Watching: Cape Cross has a rich birdlife, with over 90 species recorded, including the Damara Tern, Greater and Lesser Flamingos, and Pelicans.
4. Scenic Landscape: Cape Cross Reserve offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline of Skeleton Coast National Park.
5. Shipwrecks: The region is known for its many shipwrecks which can be seen along the shore. The remains of the Winston, a diamond mining ship, are visible from the beach.
Visitors to Cape Cross Seal Reserve can take guided tours on foot or by safari vehicle to see the seals and explore the area. It is essential to stay on designated paths and keep a safe distance from the seals to avoid accidents and disease transfer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Namibia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cape Cross Seal Reserve.

When to go on holiday to Cape Cross Seal Reserve

The best time to visit Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia is during the months of July to November when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, there are also high concentrations of seals in the reserve. It is important to note that the reserve is closed to visitors during the seal pupping season which runs from mid-November to mid-December to allow the seal colonies to thrive without disturbance.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cape Cross Seal Reserve

To get to Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia.
2. From Windhoek, you can rent a car or hire a private tour guide to take you to the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, which is approximately a 4-hour drive from the city.
3. Alternatively, you can also take a public bus from Windhoek to Swakopmund, a coastal city near the reserve. From there, you can hire a taxi or a tour guide to take you to the reserve which is approximately an hour's drive away.
4. It is important to note that the reserve is located on a remote stretch of the Skeleton Coast and the access road is a bit challenging, so it is recommended to use a 4x4 vehicle for the trip.
5. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the spectacular view of thousands of seals basking in the sun on the Namibian coast, take a guided tour, or even hike along the coast to see the shipwrecks and other marine life.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cape Cross Seal Reserve, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a wildlife reserve located on the coast of Namibia and there are no typical dishes or foods that are prepared or served at the site. However, if you are looking for local cuisine in Namibia, here are some of the popular dishes: 1. Braaivleis - a barbecue dish of grilled meats, usually beef or game meat like kudu, oryx, or springbok. It is often served with a tomato and onion relish, potato salad, or pap, a type of maize porridge.
2. Potjiekos - a slow-cooked stew made in a cast-iron pot called a potjie pot. The stew can include any combination of meats, vegetables, and spices.
3. Biltong - a type of dried meat, similar to beef jerky, that is often made from game meats like kudu, oryx, or springbok. It is a popular snack or protein source when on a safari.
4. Mopane worms - a snack made of the caterpillar of the Mopane moth. The worms are boiled or sautéed and often served with a spicy dipping sauce. They are a high-protein snack that is a delicacy in some parts of Namibia.
5. Kapana - a street food in Namibia consisting of grilled beef or venison cubes that are cooked over an open flame and served with spices like chili powder, salt, and pepper. It is often eaten as a snack or light meal with a side of pap or bread.
6. Oshifima - a type of porridge or stiff maize meal that is often eaten as a staple food in Namibia. It is similar to pap, but is made with a coarser grind of maize meal and is cooked for a longer time to make it stickier and denser. It's important to note that some of these dishes may not be available or commonly served at all tourist sites or restaurants in Namibia, but they are a good representation of the local cuisine that you may encounter while traveling in the country.
You can find general info about typical foods in Namibia here.

Is Cape Cross Seal Reserve an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia can vary depending on the type of experience you choose. The entrance fee for the reserve is generally around NAD 80 (approximately USD 5) per adult and NAD 10 (approximately USD 0.60) per child. However, if you choose to take a guided tour or stay in one of the nearby lodges, the cost can be more expensive. Overall, while the cost is not exorbitant, it's important to budget accordingly for additional expenses such as transportation and accommodation if necessary.

Where to find accomodation in Cape Cross Seal Reserve

If you are planning to visit the Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia, the best areas to find accommodation would be the nearby towns of Swakopmund, Henties Bay or the coastal town of Walvis Bay. These areas have a range of accommodation options from budget guesthouses and backpackers to luxury hotels and seaside resorts. They are all located within a reasonable driving distance from the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, making them convenient locations to explore the area from.
You can check hotel prices at Cape Cross Seal Reserve here:
Booking.com


Is Cape Cross Seal Reserve a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is important to always exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities and tour operators. It is also recommended to take basic safety precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding walking alone at night, and keeping valuables secure. Additionally, visitors should be careful not to disturb the wildlife and follow the rules and regulations set by the reserve.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Namibia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cape Cross Seal Reserve.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cape Cross Seal Reserve the most?

The Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia is an ideal destination for nature lovers who have an interest in observing seals and experiencing the wild environment of Africa. This is a great place for families, especially those with young children who will enjoy seeing thousands of seals up close and personal. Couples looking for a unique wildlife experience may also enjoy the reserve. While young people looking for a more adventurous and 'fun' trip may prefer a different destination, they could still find the Cape Cross Seal Reserve interesting if they have a great appreciation for wildlife and the environment. Overall, anyone with an interest in seals will enjoy visiting the Cape Cross Seal Reserve.

How to get around Cape Cross Seal Reserve

The best way to move around Cape Cross Seal Reserve is by foot as the reserve is not very large. Additionally, walking is the only way to access the seal colony viewing areas. There are no roads or designated paths for vehicles in the reserve. However, if you are coming from outside of the reserve, you can drive along the C34 road to reach the entrance.

What to see around Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia: 1. Damaraland: This area offers stunning landscapes with impressive rock formations and desert-adapted wildlife.
2. Spitzkoppe: Known as the Matterhorn of Namibia, Spitzkoppe offers fantastic hiking trails, unique rock formations, and gorgeous views.
3. Skeleton Coast National Park: This park offers dramatic coastal scenery, a shipwreck, and a beach where you can witness the breeding of cape fur seals.
4. Swakopmund: This coastal town offers a variety of fun activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, and dolphin watching.
5. The Brandberg Mountain: This mountain is home to ancient rock art and wildlife such as desert elephants, hyenas, and black eagles.
6. Cape Cross Lodge: If you want to relax and enjoy the stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Cross Lodge is a great option.
For every travel information about Namibia you can click here.

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