Plizio Visual Lab
Cape Cross
Cape Cross is a place of significant historical and biological importance located along Namibia's desolate Skeleton Coast. In 1486, Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão landed here and erected a stone cross (padrão) in honor of the King of Portugal. Today, visitors can see replicas of this cross marking the spot where Europeans first set foot on this part of the African coast. It serves as a poignant monument to the Age of Discovery set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond its history, Cape Cross is world-famous for the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals on the planet. During the peak season, as many as 200,000 seals can be seen lounging on the rocks or frolicking in the surf. A wooden walkway allows visitors to safely navigate through the colony for up-close observations. Be prepared for a sensory overload, as the sheer number of animals creates a cacophony of sound and a very distinct, powerful odor. The environment is heavily influenced by the cold Benguela Current, which often brings thick fog and cool temperatures to the shoreline. The best time to visit for wildlife enthusiasts is between November and December when the pups are born. Located about 120 kilometers north of Swakopmund, the area is easily reached via a unique salt road that has a smooth driving experience through the stark, beautiful coastal desert.
- Location: Namibia
- Top sights: Cape Cross Seal Reserve · Cape Cross
- Nearby: Henties Bay (52 km)
Geography
Facts
- Site of the first European landing in Namibia in 1486
- Diogo Cão erected a 2-meter high stone cross here
- Home to up to 210,000 Cape fur seals
- The seals consume tons of fish from the ocean daily
- The original stone cross is now kept in a Berlin museum
- The access road is made of hard-compacted salt
- Important breeding ground for various seabirds
- Named after the prominent stone cross on the shore
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cape Cross (2)
Frequently asked questions
Cape Cross: where is it located?
Cape Cross: what is there to see?
Cape Cross: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
