101 Reasons to visit Namibia: Pink Lake

We have all visited a lake at some point in our lives. Some of these lakes may have been frozen, some turquoise blue, and others may have ranged from light blue to dark green. But what if there were a lake that is not blue, not green, nor frozen, but completely pink? Imagine being surrounded by a sea of pink. It may sound like something out of a Barbie movie, but it is very much real.

The colour pink is often associated with a sense of calm and that’s exactly what one feels when looking at the pinkish water. Along Namibia’s coastline lies the Pink Lakes of Walvis Bay. Walvis Bay is not only the largest harbour town in Namibia, but also home to expansive salt mines. The natural evaporation ponds created by the salt company take on a vibrant, pink hue, forming a stunning natural wonder. These lakes not only offer a surreal blend of landscape and birdlife but also play a vital role in Namibia’s salt production.

Photo credits: Janke Murray 

When visiting the Pink Lakes, one will notice the large white salt piles that form part of the extraction process. These striking white mounds create a stunning contrast against the pink backdrop. The iconic pink colour comes from algae called Dunaliella salina, which thrive in high-salinity environments and produce a pigment called beta-carotene, the source of the water’s pink hue. Not only do these algae affect the colour of the water, but they also explain why the flamingos in the area are pink.

Walvis Bay is known as a birdwatching haven, where flamingos feed on algae and brine shrimp in the saltwater. The intensity of the pink colour varies depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and salt production levels. Bird lovers can look out for both the Greater Flamingo and the Lesser Flamingo gracefully wading through the pink waters. The area is also home to many other bird species, including the Great White Pelican, Chestnut-banded Plover, African Oystercatcher, and Cape Teal, just to name a few.

Photo credits: Janke Murray 

The Pink Lake in Walvis Bay is the perfect place to find tranquillity and calm. It is one of the most unique destinations to visit in Namibia. This striking natural wonder is a must-see for photographers, bird lovers, or anyone eager to explore the area and be surrounded by soft pink waters. After a day of sightseeing, visitors can enjoy a delicious dinner enhanced by the fresh, natural flavours of local sea salt.

Author: Janke Murray