Walvis Bay Salt Works (Pink Lakes) | Walvis Bay

The Walvis Bay Salt Works is a massive solar salt evaporation facility located on the southern edge of the Walvis Bay lagoon. It covers approximately 5,000 hectares and is one of the largest solar evaporation facilities in sub-Saharan Africa.

Visual Characteristics

The site is defined by a grid of large evaporation pans containing water in various stages of salinity, resulting in colors ranging from vivid pink and magenta to deep turquoise. The pink coloration is caused by the presence of salt-tolerant Dunaliella salina algae and halobacteria. White salt crystals accumulate along the embankments, and massive stockpiles of refined salt are visible near the processing plant.

Location & Access Logistics

The facility is situated at the terminus of the Esplanade road, approximately 5km south of the Walvis Bay city center. Access to the perimeter is via a paved road that transitions into a gravel track leading toward Paaltjies. While the industrial processing area is restricted, the evaporation pans are visible from the public road. No public transport serves the site; private vehicles or local taxis are the standard means of access.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The salt works were established in 1964 to utilize the region's high evaporation rates and low rainfall for industrial salt production. Ecologically, the pans serve as an artificial wetland that supports thousands of migratory birds, particularly Greater and Lesser Flamingos, which feed on the brine shrimp and algae concentrated in the shallow waters.

Key Highlights & Activities

Photography of the high-contrast pink water and white salt embankments is the primary activity for visitors. Birdwatching is highly productive along the perimeter roads, where flamingos, pelicans, and various waders congregate. Guided 4x4 tours frequently pass the facility on the route to Sandwich Harbour or Pelican Point.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There is no public infrastructure such as restrooms, shops, or shade within the salt works area. A security gate controls access to the industrial refinery. Food and water must be obtained in Walvis Bay before departure. Cellular signal (5G) remains strong throughout the site due to its proximity to the town.

Best Time to Visit

The pink intensity of the water is most vivid during the bright midday sun (12:00 to 14:00) when light penetration is deepest. For photography of birds and reflections, the late afternoon provides softer lighting and calmer winds. The pans maintain their color year-round, though water levels fluctuate based on the production cycle.

Facts & Legends

The facility produces roughly 700,000 tons of high-purity salt annually, much of which is exported for industrial use and road de-icing in the Northern Hemisphere. A local observation is that the intensity of the pink hue increases as the salt concentration rises, serving as a visual indicator for the salt harvesters.

Nearby Landmarks

Walvis Bay Lagoon – 0.5km North

Paaltjies Beach – 8km South

Dune 7 – 12km East

Pelican Point – 15km Northwest