Walvis Bay City Guide

Seafood like oysters and game meats are popular. There are restaurants with Portuguese, German, and European food. Vegan and vegetarian options exist but may need asking. Late-night food is limited.

Nightlife is modest with mostly local pubs, bars, and some hotel lounges. Not much variety but fine for a relaxed evening.

Coffee culture is developing with several cafés serving good coffee. Not a major specialty coffee hub yet.

Tipping is common. Around 10-15% in restaurants, small tips for taxis and services.

You can buy local SIM cards at the airport or mobile shops from MTC or TN Mobile. Register with ID or passport. eSIMs are limited, so check with providers.

Main areas are generally clean with proper waste management. Some less developed parts vary.

24/7 services are limited. Few late-night pharmacies and clinics. Most late food options are at hotels.

Big supermarkets like Shoprite, Checkers, and Spar stock international products. Fresh produce markets are available. Supermarkets are usually open from 8 AM to 7 PM on weekdays.

Card payments work well in supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels, but it's good to keep some cash for small vendors or markets.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Standard Bank, FNB, and Nedbank in malls and centers. International cards may incur withdrawal fees, so check with your bank first.

Walvis Bay Private High School is a known option. Some schools may offer international programs. Teaching languages are mostly English and Afrikaans.

The nomad community is small with limited meetups and no co-living. Some cafés have Wi-Fi suitable for working.

Green areas include the lagoon and some parks but are limited overall.

Running routes include the lagoon promenade and roads to Dune 7. It's safe by day and air quality is good.

Several gyms and a multi-sport facility are available.

Tennis courts are available at sports clubs. Equipment rental and coaching may be offered.

Padel courts are not common yet in Walvis Bay.

Yoga classes and some local studios are available.

Martial arts like karate and boxing are practiced locally. Details on other styles are limited.

No skiing or snow conditions in Walvis Bay or Namibia.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are possible, especially in the lagoon and coastal areas. Rentals and tours offered locally.

Surf spots exist nearby with cold water requiring wetsuits. Best during winter months, suitable for all levels. Schools available in Swakopmund.

Diving sites include offshore islands and wrecks. Visibility varies. Gear rental and certification available through operators. Best in warmer months.

There are public and private clinics. Welwitschia Hospital is private with some English-speaking staff. The public hospital offers basic care. Pharmacies like Medix provide common medicines.

Tap water is treated and generally safe to drink in Walvis Bay.

There are playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and baby supplies in supermarkets. Attractions include Walvis Bay Lagoon and boat tours to see marine animals.

LGBTQ+ acceptance varies, with limited public safe spaces. Discretion is advised.

Pet policies vary. Vet services and pet supplies exist. No dedicated pet parks, but open spaces are available. Importation rules are strict.