With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the dunes of the Namib Desert on the other, the seaside town of Swakopmund has an atmosphere unlike any other. Mostly a stopover en route to the Skeleton Coast or the Namib Desert, Swakopmund is also a destination in its own right, as the adventure capital of Namibia.

The activities to be found here are many; skydiving - the views of the dunes and sea make this THE place to take this adrenaline-maxed adventure - quad biking, sand boarding, deep sea fishing, dolphin cruises, surfing - very challenging and only for the experienced -  or simply wandering about the town and doing a spot of shopping.

Swakopmund is also the ideal base from which to venture out in search of the fascinating Welwitschia plant, spreading itself out in the moonscapes of the surrounding desert.

Very much under the influence of German architectural styles, and offering delightful seaside promenades, just a walk around the town is worth a half day. Highlights include the jetty, the Woermannhaus building, the State House and the Swakopmund Museum.