Cape Cross

The basics

As a protected area, tours to the reserve are focused on wildlife observation and education. You’ll also spot traces of the coast’s long history: Portuguese sailor Diogo Cão arrived in the 15th century and laid claim to the land with a stone cross which gave the region its name. You can see replicas of the cross and a small 19th-century graveyard for workers in the region. Many tours operate out of Swakopmund and offer stops at the Cape Cross colony.

Things to know before you go

• Seals can get smelly–while there is a picnic site, you may choose somewhere less pungent for lunch.

• Namibian wind gets chilly, so layer up.

• You can purchase entrance to the reserve from the main visitor center.

• Be aware of natural extremes. With so many seal pups, aggressive males, and surrounding natural predators, violence and death among the seals is common.

How to get there

It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Swakopmund, and you can follow the C34 highway north directly to the seal colony. Otherwise, many tours operate out of Swakopmund and offer return transportation. Try to make time for stops–the highway follows the coastline, and there are plenty of incredible photo opportunities.

When to get there

December to June is the season for seal pups–they stay with their mothers for about four to six months, and the colony is filled with adorable baby seals. Namibia’s nicest weather also falls during this period, with calmer winds from March to May.

Sleeping with seals

If you want to spend longer with the seals, the Cape Cross Lodge offers cozy accommodation. The lodge overlooks the Atlantic, allowing you to relax to the sound of the sea as you fall asleep. The attached restaurant features fresh seafood and local specialties and a patio with ocean views.