We provide a once in a lifetime desert experience in one of the most arid zones in Namibia. Cape Cross eco daytrip offers an exclusive sightseeing of this isolated mountainous area of Namibia. The trip caters for those with particular interest in photography, geology, history, geography, desert fauna and the curious desert succulent flora.
Guided tours to the colony can also be organized for guests wishing insight that is more detailed.
Our Museum Crater excursion reveals the captivating saltpans, fascinating lichen fields (all 6 six species), unique desert flora, the "Little5" (or more!) in terms of reptiles, insects, scavengers and carnivores, the elegant two thousand year old Welwitschia plants, ancient bushman paintings and much more.
The common black-backed jackal is seen constantly, prowling the edges of the colonies looking for a chance to grab and run, whilst the brown hyena, though seldom seen during the day, is a bolder predator amongst the nurseries and younger seals during darkness.
The lodge is a perfect rest spot for those traveling the Skeleton Coast or Damaraland region and has restaurant facilities for day visitors.
Special request can be met; including your honeymoon packages, small weddings, private beach dinners and picnic excursions into the surrounding desert or along the bay.
Surf fishing, just strolling the endless beaches or playing a game of chess in front of the fire, the guest's choice comes first at all times. A range of board games and cards is available in the lounge.
Our journey starts off with a visit to the biggest Cape Fur Seal-breeding colony in the world on the main land. During your visit to the Seal colony, the guide will inform you of all relevant information regarding the seals and the historical background of Cape Cross. Cape Cross was the first European contact in Southern Africa in the year 1485. This was so important that a replica of the original cross was created and erected. As Namibia is internationally renowned for big herds of breeding Seals, Cape Cross is known for this unique feature. Then we proceed to the petrified salt lagoon, where you can dig and see the crystallization of salt over 400 years old and experience the process of salt mining.
Thereafter and on our way to the Museum Crater, we stop at one of the richest Lichen stretches of the Namib Desert where we have found all six species that have to date been discovered in Namibia. The nutrient rich, cold Benguela Current not only generates a wealth of marine life, but it also produces fog which ensures the survival of an intriguing variety of desert adapted animals and plants.
We then depart to branches of the Museum River where a dense population of Welwitschias are growing, including the largest recorded Welwitschia in Namibia. Thereafter, the excursion continues across the stark lunar landscape to view the Museum Crater. The silence and solitude of the Crater is totally contrasting with the turbulence of other destinations.
Here, ancient rock paintings in the desolate rocky region and unique geological phenomena such as quartzite, dolomite and shale will be introduced to you. We head back to the lodge and for the last 20 km offer you a sensational beach drive. In conclusion, we stop to enjoy a sun downer in the brisk sea breeze of the mysterious Skeleton Coast absorbing the purity of the waves.
Duration of trip – Minimum 5 hours. Lunch stop and refreshments are done at the guide's discretion and time schedule.
Activities beside the seals entail day trips to the Saltpans, Museum Crater, Brandberg West and Ugabriver to find the free roaming dessert elephants.
Pre- booking is essential for our day trips. Longer trips with camping in the Ugabriver can be arranged. For Special packages or marketing related matters, Adri Holz can be contacted at:
SEAL VISIT
The visit to the Cape Cross Seal colony is offered between 10:00 and 16:00 and is subject to the availability of guide &
vehicle. Pre-bookings is essential to avoid disappointment. The Seal Visit activity is for approximately 45 minutes and the cost includes the entrance fee.
SEAL & SALTCRYSTALS
Experience the largest breeding Cape Fur Seal Colony and the petrified lagoon with unique salt crystal formations, which are over 400 years old. Pre-bookings are essential to avoid disappointment and confirmation is subject to the availability of a guide & vehicle. The combined experience lasts about an hour and a half.
COASTAL ANGLING
A must for the ardent fishermen as well as those who have never tried !. Our rate includes all bait, tackle, meals and refreshments for the day. Please be advised that due to FISHING LICENCES WHICH ARE REQUIRED BY LAW, PRE BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL Rack Activity Rate November 2004 until November 2006 Coastal Angling
WE OFFER AN EXPERIENCED GUIDE TO ENSURE GUESTS A SUCCESFULL FISHING DAY TRIP
COST: N$ 1000.00 PER PERSON – MINIMUM OF 2 PERSONS
The rate includes all bait, tackle, meals and refreshments for the day.
DUE TO FISHING LICENCES WHICH HAVE TO BE
OBTAINED, THIS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED AND PRE-PAID.