Top 6 Best Things To Do In Cape Cross Seal

Top 6 Best Things To Do In Cape Cross Seal

A blog with details of the top 6 best things to do in Cape Cross Seal and they include; boat cruise, sight seeing , photography and sport fishing, game drive and  birding

Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia is a breathtaking destination that attracts wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the world and offers unique wild life and nature in its authentic state. Its a home to the largest Cape fur seal colony in the world,   planning a trip to Namibia , one of the must visit destinations is Cape Cross seal reserve, located on the skeleton coast 60 kilometers north of Swakopmund.

Cape Cross is also historically significant due to its Portuguese origin. Namibia was once a Portuguese colony, and cape cross was the landing site of the Portuguese explorer, Diego Cao, in 1486. Explore the cape cross monument, which commemorates this historical event, and learn more about Namibia’s colonial past.

Here are the top 6 things to do in Cape Cross Seal  Namibia;

Game drives

What’s an African safari without  a game drive. Game drives an one of the most breathtaking activities everyone must do when on a  safari and the Cape cross seal in Namibia is one of the places to visit incase you want to get a lifetime experience.

Game drives are one of the top 6 thing to do in Cape Cross Seal and during the game drives, you will spot various animals like some of  the big five such as the lions, elephants and rhinos. The place is also a habitat to other mammals as well. The following are the places you can do game drives at when you visit the cape cross seal in Namibia; The surrounding Namib desert and the skeleton coast national park.

Photography

With its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Cape cross offers photographers a paradise for capturing breath taking shots. The contrast of the seal colony against the rugged coastline creates a fantastic backdrop for stunning images.

Capture these incredible moments and take home memories that last a life time. Make sure to bring your best lenses and take advantage of the stunning coastal scenery as a back drop for your shots.

Boat cruises

The cape cross seal reserve offers a unique opportunity to get up close to one of the largest colonies of cape fur seals in the world. The boat cruises typically depart from near by towns such as Swakopmund or Walvis bay.

The cruise allow visitors to witness the seals in their natural habitant, observing their playful behavior and observing the interactions between different groups. As u glide through the waters, you can witness the seals swimming and playing around the boats. The sight of thousands of seals basking on the rocks is truly awe-inspiring.

Sport fishing 

This is another popular activity in the cape cross area, with visitors having the chance to catch fish such as yellowtail, kabeljou, and steenbras. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in a thrilling sport fishing experience. The deep sea waters are rich in marine life and various fish species.

Whether you are a novice or an experienced angler, sport fishing in these waters can be fulfilling and an exciting adventure.

Bird watching

Cape cross is not only home to seals but also attracts a variety avian species. Birdwatchers will be delighted with the diverse array of seabirds that inhabit this region. keep an eye for rare species such as the Damara tern, the cape cormorant and the African back oystercatcher.

Add some birding to your itinerary and appreciate the rich bird life of cape cross. Binoculars are recommeded to ensure you don’t miss any of these beautiful feathered residents.

Sight seeing

While at the cape cross seal, there plenty of marvelous, beautiful views like the rugged coastline, the dunes and the Atlantic ocean. these can be seen while boat cruises, game drives and also during sport fishing.

The reserve is home to a large number of bird species and visitors can capture stunning photographs of seals against the backdrop of  the ocean and unique rock formation.

Places to visit while at Cape Cross Seal Namibia.

Explore the skeleton coast;

While visiting Cape cross, take the opportunity to explore the iconic skeleton coast. This desolate coastline stretches for hundreds  of kilometers and offers a unique and stunning beautiful landscape of towering sand dunes, shipwrecks, and rocky shores. Take a guided tour and embark on a self-drive adventure to discover the mysterious beauty of his fascinating area.

Marvel at the Colony; 

The main attraction of Cape Cross is, of course, the enormous seal colony. Here, you will find over 100,000 cape fur seals gathered along the coastline, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. witness adorable creatures frolicking in the waves, basking in the sun, and interacting with each other. It is an incredible experience that will leave you in awe of natures diversity.

Rock lobster excursion;

For those who enjoy sea food, a rock lobster excursion is a must do activity in the region. Off the coast Cape cross, you can join guided tour and experience the thrill of catching rock lobsters [also known as cray fish]. Not only will you have an exciting adventure, but u also get to savor the delicious fresh catch straight from the ocean.

When visiting Cape cross seal reserve in Namibia, you are sure to be enchanted by the incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes and captivating history. whether you choose to watch the seals at play, immerse your self in the region’s rich history, or explore the surrounding areas, Cape cross offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Plan your visit and be prepared to be amazed by the wonders of nature that await you at this remarkable destination.

Accessibility

Accessibility to cape cross seal reserve is relatively easy. It is  situated around 60 kilometers north of Swakopmund, which is a popular tourist town in Namibia. The reserve can be reached by a car via a well maintained gravel road. Many organized tours or self drive options are available for visitors, making it convenient to include in your travel plans.

Accommodation

when visiting the fascinating cape cross seal reserve in Namibia, their are plenty of accommodations available for you to choose from. Located along the skeleton coast, this unique destination offers a range of lodging destinations that allow visitors to experience the incredible natural beauty and wild life of the area. Here are some top accommodation surrounding the cape cross  seal.

1. Cape Cross Lodge; Ideally located just a short distance away from the cape cross seal reserve. The lodge offers stunning coastal views and comfortable accommodation. The lodge features spacious rooms with en-site bathrooms, a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, a bar and a swimming pool. The lodge is known for its warm hospitality and also offers guided tours to the seal colony.
2. Ugab Terrace lodge; Situated amidst the dunes of the skeleton coast and over looking  the Ugab river, Ugab terrace lodge offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. The lodge features well appointed chalets with private verandas where you can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views. It also offers a swimming pool a restaurant serving hearty meals and a guided excursion to the seal colony.
3. Mile 4 beach resort; Its just a short drive from the cape cross seal reserve, mile 4 beach resort is a coastal retreat offering comfortable and affordable accommodations. The resort features fully equipped  self catering chalets and camping facilities, making it an ideal option for families or budget travelers. Guests can enjoy direct beach access, a restaurant and bar, as well as various outdoor activities such as fishing and beach combing.
4. Zeila shipwreck lodge; For truly unique and memorable experience, consider staying at Zeila shipwreck lodge. Situated in the skeleton coast national park, this eco-friendly lodge blends luxury with the rugged beauty of the surroundings. Inspired by the shipwrecks that scatter the coastline, the lodge features stylish en-site cabins with panoramic  views, a restaurant, a bar and a lodge area. Guided tours to cape cross seal reserve are available.
5. Terrace bay resort; Located within the skeleton coast national park, terrace bay resort is an ideal choice for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. The resort offers self catering accommodation in well equipped units, a restaurant, a bar and convenience store. Being inside the park, guest can explore the stunning beaches, encounter desert adapted wildlife and join fishing trips in the Atlantic ocean.
6. Community campsite cape resort; If you prefer a more rustic experience or are travelling on a tight budget, consider camping at the community campsite cape cross. Managed by the local community, this campsite offers basic facilities including picnic tables, barbecue areas, and clean ablution blocks. it provides a unique opportunity to get close to nature and enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere.

Remember to book your accommodation in advance during the peak season , as the cape cross seal reserve is a popular tourist destination. weather you choose to stay in a lodge , resort, or campsite these accommodations will provide you with a comfortable bed to explore the incredible cape cross seal reserve and the surrounding skeleton coast.

Amenities 

Cape cross seal reserve Namibia is a remote and relatively undeveloped area , visitors can enjoy the following basic amenities and attractions .

1. seal viewing
2. information center
3. boardwalks and viewing platforms
4. rest rooms
5. picnic areas
6. educational signage
7. souvenir shops

Its important to note that cape cross is a protected area , and visitors are encouraged to follow conservation guidelines to minimize disturbance to the seals and their habitant . while the amenities are relatively basic compared to more developed tourist destinations , the incredible natural spectacle of the seal colony is the main draw for visitors to this unique location . Always check for the latest information and amenities available during your visit, as conditions can change.

Animals found in cape cross seal in Namibia

Cape cross seal reserve in Namibia is primarily known for its massive colony of cape fur seals . these seals are the dominant and most notable animal species found in the area . here are the key animals you can expect to see at cape cross ;

cape fur seals(Arctocephalus  Pusillus  Pusillus):this colony is one of the largest in the world , with thousands of cape fur seals congregating along the coastline. they come here to breed ,give birth ,and raise their young ones .

while the seals are the main attraction , the areas unique ecosystem also supports various bird species and marine life . you may encounter:

Coastal bird species : Cape cross is home to various sea birds and coastal birds . some common species include cormorants , seagulls, and other coastal avian species .

Marine life : Along the shoreline , you might spot marine creatures such as crabs ,small fish ,and occasionally, dolphins or whales in the offshore waters. the seals presence can also attract predators like jackals and hyenas, which occasionally visit the area

Aside from the seals there are also other animals or predators that surround Namibia which will include   the  animals like

Sea   sharks;  the sharks in Namibia are spotted in different habitants which are the rocky areas, tidal pools,  shallow bays and sandy beaches. There are also different types of sharks in the sea   which are the:

• Great white shark; this is the biggest predator (an animal that naturally preys on others) of marine mammals.
• Sand shark; basically regarded to as ragged tooth sharks.
• Six gill white shark; this type of shark has six gills on both sides of its body.
• Spotted gully shark; this is reoffered to a sharp tooth hound shark.
• Copper shark; these can also be known  as bronze whalers.
• Smooth hammer head shark ; these type of sharks have slender bodies and flattened heads.
• Soup fin shark; this type of sharks are fished commercially.
• Thin tail thresher shark; It uses its long thin tail to catch its prey.
• Broad nose seven gill: this is a large shark with a broadly rounded head with also a blunt snout.

Whales; whales are the largest animals that reside in all oceans and while in Namibia they are spotted in the walvis bay and the best time to watch them is between June and November hence  these are the spotted whales in Namibia;

• The humpback whale
• The blue whale
• The grey whale
• The sperm whale
• The fin whale
• The southern right whale
• The sei whale
• The pygmy sperm whale
• The strap toothed whale
• The gray`s beaked whale
• The minke whale

 

The above sea animals  feed on the cape fur seals that come around the surface of the sea so they grab or get food as they go. While on the mainland one can come across animals like the;

• Hyenas; in Namibia, hyenas are found along the whole country apart from the south-eastern, north and north eastern parts. The brown hyena and the spotted hyena are the species one can get in Namibia.
• Jackals; in Namibia jackals are very common especially in the Namib desert although not in the north eastern part of the country and of which they survive in birds, insects, small antelopes and rodents

Invertebrates: In the tide pools and rocky areas , you may find various marine vertebrates , including sea anemones, starfish, and crabs

While these are the primary animals you can expect to see at cape cross seal reserve , the colony of cape fur seals is undoubtedly the main attraction and the reason why visitors from around the world come to this unique coastal location in Namibia.

Frequently asked questions.

1. What are cape fur seals?

• Cape fur seals are a species of fur seal found along the coast of Namibia and south Africa. They are known for their thick  fur, which helps the regulate body temperatures in cold weathers.

2. When is the best time to visit cape fur seals in Namibia?

• The best time to visit cape fur seals in Namibia is during the breeding season, which typically occurs from November to December when you can witness the large seal colonies with lots of pups.

3. Can i swim with Cape fur seals?

• Yes, there are opportunities for seal watching and sometimes  even seal swimming tours in Namibia. Always choose responsible and eco-friendly tour operators to minimize disturbances to the seals.

4.Where can i see cape fur seals in Namibia?

• Cape fur seals are commonly found along the Namibian coastline, with large colonies at places like Cape cross and pelican point.

5. Are Cape fur seals dangerous to humans?

• Generally, Cape fur seals are not dangerous to humans. However, like any wild animal, they should be observed from a safe distance to avoid any potential risks, and its essential to respect their natural habits.