THE LIVING DESERT SNAKE PARK

Conserve. Educate. Inspire.

Welcome to Namibia’s premier reptile sanctuary located in Swakopmund where the cold Atlantic Ocean meets the Namib Desert. We are dedicated to changing perceptions about the world’s most misunderstood creatures. By educating visitors about the different animals and the vital role they play in the ecosystem as well as dispelling generational myths that so many grow up believing we hope to change fear to respect and appreciation and demonstrate the humans and reptiles can safely coexist.

All of the reptiles in our care were rescued from conflict situations. For the animals whose injuries prevent them from surviving in the wild we provide them with a permanent, safe home with regular meals. These animals serve as vital ambassadors for their species helping us host and teach thousands of schoolchildren, locals and tourists every year.

We house more than 70 animals or at least 40 different species many of which are endemic or nearly endemic to Namibia. We provide a safe learning environment for all visitors at the Living Desert Snake Park. All snakes are behind glass or under control and completely secure. We provide a welcoming space where everyday visitors, tourists and children can overcome their fears and gain practical wildlife knowledge.

What you will learn:

How to Recognise and Identify: Learn to quickly spot and accurately identify iconic Namibia species by their distinct markings, shapes and movements.

Is it Dangerous or Harmless? Understand clearly which local snakes pose a medical risk and which ones are completely harmless, helping you react calmly if you ever encounter one in nature.

Are the stories I was taught growing up true or just myths? Replace fear with facts as you learn how these animals actively avoid human confrontation when given the chance.

Animals you can see are: Cape cobras, Anchieta’s cobras, zebra spitting cobras, black-necked spitting cobras, Mozambique spitting cobras, coral cobras, black mambas, puff adders, horned adders, the sidewinding Peringuey’s adder, boomslang, vine snakes, sand snakes, tiger snakes, Western keeled snakes, file snakes and pythons. Beyond snakes: We also have different species of tortoises, terrapins and monitor lizards. Animals which cannot be released are provided with a permanent, safe home with regular meals. These animals serve as vital ambassadors for their species helping us host and teach thousands of schoolchildren, locals and tourists every year.

Specialised Group Services & Training

We offer professional and exclusive group packages tailored for industry professionals and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Corporate Snake Awareness and Handling Courses: Operating a mine, lodge or factory in Namibia means that snake encounters are inevitable We provide specialized, comprehensive courses designed specifically for mining operations and Interested public & private groups. No prior experience required only a keen interest and enthusiasm. Also perfect for tour guides, agricultural workers, lodge staff or desert adventurers. Available for groups of six or more participants. See Training page for more information.

Professional photography or filming sessions: Designed specifically for wildlife photographers, filmmakers or wildlife enthusiasts and media professionals looking to capture clean, portfolio quality imagery of Namibia’s unique herpetofauna. Expert handling: Professional handlers safely position and manage the reptiles ensuring both the safety of the photographer and wellbeing of the the animal. See Photography page for more information.

Plan your Visit

Our new location: Swakopmund Paintball Centre and Adventure Park, Strand Street South, Swakopmund, Namibia

Opening Hours: Weekdays and Saturdays: 9am to 5pm and Sundays and Public Holidays: 10am to 4pm. Join us on Saturdays for snake feeding between 10am and 1pm.

Parking facilities: Enjoy secure, free on-site parking. Our spacious parking area is fully optimised to accommodate large tour buses and high capacity overland vehicles with ease.

Other amenities: Make a day of it! The Paintball Centre features a great on-site restaurant perfect for lunch and refreshments before or after your reptile visit. The is also the opportunity to play puttputt or organise a paintball session.