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Salt Company Swakopmund
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The Salt Company near Swakopmund is one of the oldest salt producers in Namibia. The operation uses the natural evaporation of seawater to harvest salt. Seawater is pumped into a series of shallow ponds, where the sun and wind evaporate the water, leaving behind a highly concentrated brine. Salt then crystallises from this brine and is harvested. The company produces both industrial salt and high-quality table salt. The salt pans north of Swakopmund are also an important wetland for birds, especially flamingos and pelicans, attracting many tourists and birdwatchers. Salt production is an example of a sustainable industry that harnesses Namibia's natural resources, sun, wind, and seawater, to create a valuable product sold both locally and for export.
- Location: Namibia
- Top sights: Pebble Beach · Flamingo Lagoon · Swakopmund Genocide Museum
- Nearby: Swakopmund (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, May.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 21 | 20 | 21 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 12 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Salt Company Swakopmund is a large facility for extracting sea salt through evaporation on Namibia's Atlantic coast. It is a major employer and supplies salt for the region and export.
Visiting
The salt pans are largely open to the public as they stretch along the main road north of Swakopmund. Visitors can view the evaporation basins and white salt crusts from the roadside.
Where to view it
A particularly nice viewpoint is along the B2 just before the Saltworks entrance. From here, a wide view opens over the colorful basins, which can shimmer pink depending on algae content.
Local products
The pans produce table salt, industrial salt, and some bath salt. These products are available in supermarkets and souvenir shops in Swakopmund, often with a regional label.
Active season
Salt production is most intensive during the dry season from May to October when evaporation is highest. In the cooler months, crystal formation is particularly pronounced.
Nearby
Combine the salt pans visit with the town of Swakopmund, known for its German colonial architecture and beaches. A trip to the Sandwich Harbour dunes is also recommended.
Geography
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Sights in the town Salt Company Swakopmund (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Swakopmund salt extraction?
Large salt pans for the extraction of sea salt.
Is it usable for tourists?
The salt pans are a popular photo motif but cannot be visited as a factory.
Where is the salt plant?
North of Swakopmund along the coast.
What is the appeal?
The colorful basins and the birdlife (flamingos).
Do I have to pay an entrance fee?
No, as you only look from the road.
Salt Company Swakopmund: where is it located?
Salt Company Swakopmund is located in Namibia.
Salt Company Swakopmund: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pebble Beach, Flamingo Lagoon, Swakopmund Genocide Museum.
Salt Company Swakopmund: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, May.
Salt Company Swakopmund: why is it worth visiting?
The Salt Company near Swakopmund is one of the oldest salt producers in Namibia.
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