Sandwich Harbour gives you many feelings, from calm and peaceful to exciting and full of energy. When you visit this natural place on Namibia’s coast with a guide, you will feel both relaxed and thrilled.
Here are some interesting and fun facts about Sandwich Harbour:
It Is a Historic Harbour
When Diego Cão and other Portuguese sailors entered the natural harbour in 1486, they named the place Port d’Ilheo, which means “point of the island.”
The harbour’s importance at that time is still not clear, but it later became a fishing and trade port in the 1800s.
Because of its fresh water, it became a good stop for sailors and supported different businesses like guano collection, fish processing, beef canning, and whaling.
It became more useful as a supply harbour for South-West Africa when Germany took over in 1884. But soon after, the harbour in Swakopmund replaced it.
How It Got Its Name
It is not clear where the name “Sandwich” came from. Most people believe it was named after a ship, the HMS Sandwich, that visited in the late 1700s. Others say the name came from the German word sandfisch, which means sand fish or shark.
One common idea is that when you reach the beach, you stand between the sea and the dunes. It feels like you are held between two great natural forces.
But be careful, you must leave before the high tide comes in! Your guides will make sure you stay safe and leave on time.
Namibia’s Indigenous Cultures
You can find signs of the Topnaar people here, both old and new. The Topnaar belong to the Khoi group, one of Namibia’s oldest native groups.
How did they live in such a hard place? Your guide will explain their way of life.
The Desert’s Food Source
You will also learn about the nara plant. This desert plant grows where there is underground water. It helped the Topnaar people survive.
Even though the plant looks sharp and not friendly, it is very healthy and has even inspired designs, like the Desert Whisper.
The Wildlife
In the Kuiseb Delta, you may see animals like springbok, ostrich, jackal, and brown hyena in the sand dunes and old riverbeds. Other desert animals include gerbils, three-striped mice, shovel-snouted lizards, and the shy sidewinder snake.
You might also see seals, dolphins, and sometimes even whales in the sea. Sandwich Harbour, with its lagoon and nearby dunes, is also a great place to watch animals and birds.
An Exciting Experience
The only way to reach Sandwich Harbour from Walvis Bay is along the beach. The sand dunes get taller as you go south. During high tide, the sea covers the narrow beach road.
Guides are skilled at driving on soft sand and avoiding the waves. If the tide is coming in, you may have to return through the dunes, which is quite an adventure.
Walvis Bay Lagoon
Before you go to Sandwich Harbour, you will likely stop at Walvis Bay Lagoon. It’s a nice place to see first. Be ready for different weather conditions.
Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a warm jacket.
