• Woermannhaus - Explore the Woermannhaus on Bismarck Street, a remarkable example of architect Friedrich Höft’s “Fachwerkbau” style. Constructed in 1894 by the Damara and Namaqua Trading Company, it was expanded in 1903 and 1904 with the addition of wood-paneled offices. Originally, the courtyard featured a lush evergreen garden. This building served as the headquarters for the leading trading company in what was then South West Africa, known as the Damara and Namaqua Trading Company, later Woermann, Brock & Co. In 1909, Woermannhaus also housed select officials and employees of the company. The Damara Tower in the northwest corner was a high lookout that also functioned as a flag-mast and navigation point.
• Swakopmund Jetty - Discover the Swakopmund iron Jetty, built in 1912 to replace a deteriorating wooden jetty. Two Mannheim-based firms in Germany were awarded the contract, with plans for a 640m jetty. The rocky terrain posed significant challenges during construction, necessitating a drilling program to overcome these issues. The outbreak of the First World War left the jetty incomplete at 262m. Nevertheless, it was constructed to such high standards that it withstood the relentless Atlantic waves for over 70 years with minimal repairs.
• Hotel Prinzessin Rupprecht B&B Swakopmund Namibia - Visit the Prinzessin-Rupprecht-Heim, a striking reminder of the early lifestyle in the country. Built in 1902 and named after the patroness of the Bavarian Association and wife of the Bavarian heir, Prinzessin Rupprecht, it initially served as a military hospital. In 1909, it closed and was converted into a convalescent home in 1911. Two years later, the Bavarian Women’s Association of the Red Cross took over, commissioning extensive renovations with a 35,000 mark donation.
• Hohenzollernhaus - Admire Haus Hohenzollern, constructed between 1904 and 1906. This former hotel is one of Swakopmund’s most extraordinary buildings, adorned with cupids, flowers, corner pediments with lions, and an imperial image of Atlas bearing the world. Haus Hohenzollern towers over nearby structures, exemplifying the German architecture of that era. Despite the harsh Namib Desert, pioneers created uniquely beautiful and enduring buildings.
• German Evangelical Lutheran Church - Visit the German Evangelical Lutheran Church and its adjacent parsonage. Legend has it that in 1905, Pastor Vedder was disheartened by the lack of attendance at open-air services, returning home with his sermon unread. In 1909, the congregation united to draft building plans for a church. Architect Ertl promptly designed a magnificent Neo-Baroque style house of worship. F. H. Schmidt was contracted to build the church in 1910 for 85,000 Mark, and Franz Schilling in Apolda, Germany, cast the three bells.
• Marine Memorial - Pay a visit to the Marine Memorial, a monument of exquisite detail dedicated to Germany’s First Marine Expedition members who fell in action. Designed by Berlin sculptor A. M. Wolff and cast by Gladenbeck A. G., Berlin, the statue depicts a marine standing beside his fallen comrade. The crew of the gunboat “Panther” presented the monument to Swakopmund on behalf of the Marine Infantry on 26 July 1908. The National Monuments Commission declared the Marine Denkmal a National Monument on 2 January 1969.

• Refreshments

Swakopmund, recognized as Namibia’s premier holiday destination, was established in August 1892 by the German Colonial Reich. For many years, this town served as the main port for the region, initially through the mole and later the jetty, both of which still stand today. Numerous historical buildings from that era remain in use and are considered historical landmarks. The unique German Colonial charm of Swakopmund has been meticulously preserved, making it a significant draw for tourists and businesspeople alike.

The Historical Swakopmund walking tour focuses on the town’s rich history. The guide will share the story of Swakopmund and describe the origins of its various historical buildings. Highlights include the Woermannhaus, an excellent example of early architecture, Prinzessin-Rupprecht-Heim, a vivid reminder of early life, and the Marine Memorial, a monument of exceptional detail.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.