#Lagoon

A flamingo paradise on the shores of Africa: Walvis Bay Lagoon

The Walvis Bay Lagoon, situated on the vast shore where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, holds the distinction of being one of the most important coastal wetlands in the Southern Africa region. According to information obtained from the Walvis Bay Tourism Office by AA correspondent, each year, tens of thousands of migratory birds from over 150 species, including large and small flamingos, spend the summer months in the lagoon and the surrounding salt pans. Species such as pelicans, oystercatchers, cormorants, sandpipers, kingfishers, marsh harriers, and plovers are also among the regular visitors to this area. Flamingos and Shrimps The presence of a population of 'saltwater shrimps' in the shallow waters of the lagoon, along with the surrounding salt flats, makes this area especially attractive to flamingos. Flamingos, cooling off in the shallow waters of the lagoon throughout the day and simultaneously feasting on abundant shrimps, acquire their distinctive pink colors from the carotenoid pigment obtained from the shrimps they consume. Therefore, the colors of flamingos nourished in the shrimp-rich waters of Walvis Bay are observed to be exceptionally vibrant. Pink Lake Known as "Whale Bay" in Afrikaans, this region is among the best places to observe the migrations of dolphins and whale herds during the summer months. The area around the lagoon, extending 1-2 kilometers along the ocean coast, to the south of the lagoon, also hosts a large seal population. Adjacent to a salt factory and named after the color of its water, the "Pink Lake" is one of the most visited places by tourists in the region. The nearby fishing spot also offers interesting experiences for enthusiasts who want to catch fresh ocean fish. Transportation Walvis Bay is located approximately 35 kilometers from Swakopmund, Namibia's most famous coastal city. Regular flights to the local airport are available from Namibia's capital, Windhoek. Transportation from the capital to here is also possible via a 400-kilometer road journey. Access from Turkey to Namibia is typically facilitated through flights via South Africa and Ethiopia. In Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, there are accommodation options available to suit various preferences. While Namibia is considered one of the safer countries in the region, there has been an increase in crime incidents in recent years. The police advise tourists to exercise caution against theft and pickpocketing.