Exploring Lüderitz

EAT, SLEEP, EXPERIENCE LÜDERITZ

Small towns in Namibia have a special allure. They often exist as a result of some or other historical irony, consolidated from one generation to the next. Be it the central melting pot of rural life as in the case of Rundu, fruitful agriculture in its surroundings like Omaruru, or for a productive long-standing harbour like in Lüderitz – each tiny town develops a distinct character.

Lüderitz is the designated destination for travellers wishing to visit the famed Kolmanskop ghost town. And while the sand-filled historic homes of Namibia’s first diamond tycoons remain an awe-inspiring sight, this small town has a whole lot more up its sleeve.

WHERE TO STAY

Lüderitz boasts several accommodation options, the most prominent being the Lüderitz Nest Hotel Situated on the outskirts of town, the Nest has spectacular views of the prominent Felsenkirche, as well as panoramic ocean views including a nearby oyster farm. The classic, comfortable rooms are all ensuite, with the option to book adjoining rooms if you are travelling with kids. A fantastic spread is served for breakfast. The Nest has a lovely front lawn and wooden jetty, where you are sheltered from the wind and can soak up some sun. There is also a courtyard swimming pool, and wonderful restaurant.

Krabbenhöft & Lampe makes for a unique self-catering stay in the centre of town. The building, now a national monument, was one of Lüderitz’s first trading houses. With wooden floors, high ceilings and ample character it is an authentic accommodation facility.

Kratzplatz, centrally located and also in a historic building, is a bed & breakfast. Quaint and quirky, the accommodation offers everything a guest might need, from WiFi to secure parking, while maintaining a laid-back, no frills kind of vibe.

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

Essenzeit is located at the Lüderitz waterfront with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Accompanied by a great view of the bay, the menu offers something for everyone, including pizza, burgers and breakfast. Enjoy an ice cold local beer and dive into the sensational seafood platter while admiring the monohulls and catamarans that bob calmly in the bay.

Diaz Coffee Shop is a great lunch spot, which serves wholesome and affordable dishes from toasted sandwiches to loaded fresh fish meals. The restaurant is divided into two sections, one with an old-school coffee shop atmosphere and the other decorated with authentic nautical paraphernalia like buoys, oyster cages and faded green rope. Try fresh oysters with Tabasco and a lemon wedge.

Portuguese Fisherman is a newer eatery, with sheltered outdoor seating and ample more inside perfectly suited to the windy, yet sunny town. The menu is limited, but this is just the place to tuck into calamari and crayfish, paired with white wine and adorable marine-inspired decor.

Barrels is the local hang-out spot favoured for its no-nonsense menu of pizza and the chef’s special, which is a three-course dinner and always something different. Buchters, as the locals are fondly called, gather there for after-work drinks at the bar or around tables fashioned from wine barrels. The place is small and dimly lit, but consider this a pro rather than a con – it oozes atmosphere.

WHAT TO DO, SEE AND EXPERIENCE

After checking into your accommodation, I recommend embarking on a walking tour of the town to get the lay of the land and shops and restaurants at your disposal.

A short 25-minute drive takes you to the Lüderitz peninsula where a replica of the Diaz Cross stands sentinel over a rocky hill and the rough Atlantic crashing against its base. Climb the concrete steps to the top, take in the view and snap a picture with the cross. Be warned, it gets quite windy there! Once descended from the viewpoint,a hot chocolate or tea beckons at the Skip Skop coffee shop that overlooks the quirky campsites on the peninsula. A lighthouse with classic red and white stripes completes the picture.

Local stakeholders in the tourism industry recently erected a brightly coloured LÜDERITZ sign, inviting visitors to grab a few Insta-worthy pictures. Concrete letters in technicolour hues are cast on a low wall, with the perfect backdrop of the calm waters of the bay and harbour. Not only is this a great place to mark your visit to the Bucht, but locals have adopted it as their designated sunset spot. Grab a few refreshing drinks from a shop in town and sign off a day in Lüderitz while gazing across the ocean.

Last, but certainly not least: Kolmanskop. The appeal of Lüderitz’s rich history is tethered to the rise and fall of this settlement, which sprung up after the first diamond was discovered in the vicinity in 1908 by railway worker Zacharia Lewala. Kolmanskop was created out of the dust. Wealthy residents enjoyed amenities like a ballroom, power station, an ice factory and a hospital which boasted the first X-ray equipment in the southern hemisphere. The now eerily empty and dune-filled buildings can be explored at your leisure, or with a guide.

WHAT TAIMI SAYS:

My experience in Lüderitz was truly surreal. The trip was incredibly exciting, not only because it was my first journey with FlyNamibia, but also because it was my first flight EVER! The views over the Namib, right before we touched down in Lüderitz, were breathtaking. During our two-day stay I also gained a wealth of knowledge about the town's rich history.

Lüderitz boasts beautiful architecture and the warmest, friendliest people. What stands out to me the most about the town is its unique tranquillity. It is a thriving harbour and an economically promising town, yet it feels like the pace of life there is slower and more intentional.

When it comes to meals, my highlight has to be the fantastic breakfast at the Lüderitz Nest Hotel. Furthermore, the restaurants in Lüderitz serve up deliciously fresh seafood, and they have all mastered the art of the french fry.

For those considering Lüderitz as a tourist destination, I highly recommend it! Its history is complemented by pictureperfect tourist attractions like Kolmanskop, Diaz Point and the Felsenkirche. Not to mention the town's imminent economic growth as a result of off-shore exploration. FlyNamibia effortlessly connects you to the jewel of Namibia’s coast with weekday flights to Lüderitz.

FlyNamibia between Hosea Kutako International Airport and Cape Town, Sossusvlei, Etosha, Twyfelfontein and Swakopmund, as well as between Eros Airport in Windhoek and Ondangwa, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz and Oranjemund.

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