Hidden Gems of Namibia Part 1 – Glamping in Goanikontes Oasis

Goanikontes Oasis at the banks of the Swakop river

Info focus for our first part of the series is the Goanikontes Oasis at the banks for the Swakop river only about 40km from Swakopmund. It will only take you a 40 minute scenic drive to reach this magnificent place. 

Goanikontes Oasis - in short

Goanikontes is a stunning resort and camp situated in the moon landscape of Namibia, amid the Namib Naukluft and Dorob National Parks. The natural surroundings are amazing and the rest camp is just 50 m away from the Swakop river. The beautiful moon landscapes strike the oasis and even the famous Welwitchia grows close by. Take some days to spend in the sunny oasis and enjoy nature and sunshine. Year-round sun ensures that the swimming pools and hiking trails are accessible throughout your stay. 

A glamping hideout

Goanikontes is a perfect stop over for weekends or on your way to the coast. Accommodation is offered in comfortable bungalows which of course do offer the typical braai facility. If you prefer camping you will be delighted to discover the luxury glamping possibilities. Twelve shady campsites equipped with their own braai facilities and toilets and showers close by. There is an on-site restaurant that serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch.

Activities at Goanikontes Oasis

Stranded in the middle of the desert with nothing to do? Goanikontes Oasis has never had the thought cross our minds. With activities for the whole family, Goanikontes Oasis is the perfect rest stop for your Namibian adventure.

During the day you can take part in various activities offered by Goanikontes such as hiking, fat bike riding, catch and release fishing which is enjoyed throughout the sunny days. Your kids can enjoy a visit to the small zoo park and playground. If you like it more adventurous or want to do some team building, you can challenge yourself in obstacle courses.

Of course, self drive scenic tours are great to discover the beautiful nature and landscapes and not to mention the beautiful bird life the resort has got to offer. Various viewpoints into the Namibian moon landscape as well as the Welwitcha drive are just close-by.

Some history about Goanikontes

Goanikontes is a historic site and settlement located in the Namib Desert of Namibia. Its origins date back to the mid-19th century, when it served as an oasis and rest stop for travelers, traders, and explorers traversing the arid desert landscape. The name "Goanikontes" is thought to have originated from the Nama people and loosely translates to "the place where the camelthorn trees grow."

The settlement became significant during the German colonial period (1884–1915) as a crucial watering point along trade and transport routes. Its strategic location near the Swakop River, a rare source of water in the desert, made it an essential spot for early settlers, especially during the development of the surrounding areas.

Back in these days the farm has been used to grow vegetables to supply Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Some of the rubber trees and palm trees that have been planted at the early days of farming can still be seen around.