Cape Cross Seal Reserve Travel Guide
Travel to Cape Cross Seal Reserve - Largest Colony of Breeding Cape Fur Seals in Southern Africa
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The Cape Cross Seal Reserve is on Namibia’s Atlantic coast 130 km north of Swakopmund and is the most easily accessible of the 23 breeding colonies that are spread along Africa’s west coast.
Cape Cross is home to the ‘Arctocephalus Pusillus’ the largest of the world’s nine fur seal species. Seals are at the reserve throughout the year, the best months to visit are between November and December when up to 150,000 seals congregate to breed.
The Portuguese navigator, Diego Cao landed here in 1486 when it became the most southern point of Africa that a European had reached, he erected a stone cross to mark his achievements, the original cross has been moved to Portugal and a replica now replaces it.
Attractions in Cape Cross Seal Reserve
The largest colony of breeding Cape Fur Seals in southern Africa, numbers at the site vary depending on the time of year but can range from 80,000 to 250,000. The seals are worth watching at any time of year, however if you visit between November and December you will be able to see the birthing of baby pups. Watch out for predators – hyenas and jackals roam the beaches looking for babies to steal! Take something with you to cover your nose as the smell from the seals is quite overwhelming.
Activities in Cape Cross Seal Reserve
View thousands of seals in close up.
Relaxing
It may be wise to take your picnic lunch after you've left Cape Cross due to the remarkable smell.
Getting Around
It is an easy drive to Cape Cross, approximately 130 km north of Swakopmund, and 55 km north of Henties Bay along a good surfaced road.
Cape Cross Seal Reserve Reviews
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Posted on:
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Saturday, 8th November 2008
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Thousands of seals cover the beaches, but beware of the stench - seals do not use deodorant and while they are excellent to watch you need to hold your nose.
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Posted by:
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Sooty
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Posted at:
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16:53