Luderitz, Namibia

A HIDDEN GEM WITH A BIG HISTORY

Between the windswept shores of the South Atlantic and the vast Namib Desert, discover a quaint fishing village with a distinct German vibe and a rich history rooted in the diamond rush.

Aside from the sandy streets and surrounding desert, much of Luderitz wouldn’t seem out of place in Munich or Berlin. Colourful colonial architecture remains from the scramble for Africa and the diamond rush in the early 1900s, when the town was German-controlled. The Deutsche Afrika Bank, Old Post Office, and Lutheran church overlooking the town and harbor are a few of many impressive buildings that echo this bygone era.

For coastal discoveries, head north to explore Agate Beach, or cross the causeway to Shark Island for incredible views of the bay and town. Further off the coast is rocky, windy, picturesque Diaz Point, where Bartolomeu Dias, believed to be the second European to reach Namibia, erected a cross in 1488.

Refuel in a cozy waterfront cafe with a strong Namibian coffee and enjoy serene seaside views, sip an ice cold Windhoek Lager—still brewed in accordance with Germany’s Beer Purity Law of 1516—or devour some fresh-caught seafood. Lobster, ultra-tender Namibian oysters (often called “the veal of shellfish”), and fish are plentiful as the town’s industry has shifted seaward.