Swakopmund’s dunes attract thrill-seekers and cruise liner tourists post-covid

In the picturesque town of Swakopmund, nestled between the vast Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, sandboarding is experiencing a significant revival. Following the pandemic’s travel restrictions, this thrilling sport is drawing visitors back to Namibia, known for its striking landscapes and adventure activities. With the number of cruise liners docking at Walvis Bay nearly doubling last year, Swakopmund has become a hotspot for those looking to experience the exhilaration of sandboarding.

Before the global travel halt, Namibia welcomed approximately a million visitors annually. Now, three years later, the country’s tourism sector is bouncing back, with sandboarding at the forefront of its resurgence. This sport, offering both standing and lying down options, allows participants to race down sand dunes at speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph), providing an adrenaline rush unmatched by many other activities.

Tourists, including Aylin Yazan, a media professional from London, are flocking to Swakopmund for their first taste of sandboarding. “It is one of the best things to do around here,” Yazan remarked, highlighting the unique appeal of this desert-based sport.

The increase in visitors is not limited to those seeking adventure on the dunes. Walvis Bay is also benefiting from a surge in shipping traffic, as companies seek alternatives to the Red Sea’s insecurity and the congested ports of South Africa. This shift has further contributed to the region’s economic recovery and the revitalization of its tourism and leisure sectors.

For locals like Devon Waters, a 28-year-old sandboarding guide, the sport has been life-changing. Having grown up in Swakopmund, Waters found in sandboarding not only a passion but a path away from the challenges of street life, including drugs and crime. “It changed me a lot. It keeps me off the streets because we work here every day,” he shared, underscoring the positive impact of sandboarding on his life and community.

Sandboarding’s resurgence in Namibia symbolizes the country’s overall recovery in the post-pandemic world. It not only provides thrilling experiences for international tourists but also supports local economies and offers valuable opportunities for residents. As more visitors are drawn to Namibia’s beautiful landscapes and unique activities, the future of tourism in the region looks bright, with sandboarding leading the way.