Skeleton Coast Park
This remote coastal wilderness is home to shipwrecks, seal colonies, and unique desert-adapted wildlife.
Overview
Skeleton Coast Park in Namibia is a place of haunting beauty, where the stark desert landscape meets the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along the country’s northern coastline, this remote and rugged wilderness is known for its shipwrecks, towering sand dunes, and abundant wildlife. The park’s name comes from the bleached whale and seal bones that littered the shore, remnants of the whaling industry of the 19th century. Today, the Skeleton Coast is a protected area, home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that have adapted to the harsh desert environment. Visitors to the park can explore its otherworldly landscapes, witness the power of the ocean meeting the desert, and encounter wildlife such as desert-adapted elephants, lions, and seals. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or simply seeking solitude in a unique and awe-inspiring setting, the Skeleton Coast Park is sure to leave you spellbound.
Things to Do
Scenic Flights: Experience the breathtaking views of the Skeleton Coast from the air, offering a unique perspective of the rugged coastline and its surroundings.
Visit Seal Colonies: Explore the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world, and observe these fascinating marine mammals up close.
View Shipwrecks: Discover the remnants of shipwrecks along the coast, showcasing the area’s maritime history and adding to its mysterious allure.
Wildlife Safari: Embark on a wildlife safari to spot desert-adapted elephants, lions, giraffes, and other wildlife that roam the arid landscape.
Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and dramatic seascapes of the Skeleton Coast, offering endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
Sandboarding and Dune Driving: Experience the thrill of sandboarding or dune driving on the towering sand dunes of the Skeleton Coast, providing an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
What to See
Unique Landscapes: Marvel at the contrasting landscapes of the Skeleton Coast, from its rugged shoreline and expansive sand dunes to its rocky plains and desert terrain.
Cape Cross Seal Colony: Witness thousands of Cape fur seals congregating at Cape Cross, creating a spectacle of sight, sound, and smell.
Historic Shipwrecks: Explore the remains of old shipwrecks that dot the coastline, serving as a reminder of the perilous maritime history of the Skeleton Coast.
Desert-adapted Wildlife: Encounter desert-adapted wildlife, including elephants, oryx, springbok, and jackals, perfectly adapted to survive in this harsh environment.
Birdwatching: Enjoy birdwatching opportunities, with the Skeleton Coast being home to a variety of seabirds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Skeleton Coast Park is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler and wildlife viewing is at its best. The wet season from November to April can be challenging due to heavy rains and flooding.
Getting there
By Air: The park can be accessed by air through scheduled flights to nearby airstrips, followed by a transfer to the park.
By Road: Access by road is limited, with 4×4 vehicles recommended due to the rugged terrain and sandy conditions.
Where to Stay
Mid-range accommodation
Terrace Bay Resort
Located within the Skeleton Coast Park, Terrace Bay Resort offers mid-range accommodations with access to the beach. The resort features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and guided tours of the area.
Skeleton Coast Camp
Situated near the park, Skeleton Coast Camp offers mid-range tented accommodations in a remote desert setting. The camp features comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining tent, and guided excursions to explore the Skeleton Coast.
Torra Bay Campsite
Located within the park, Torra Bay Campsite offers mid-range camping facilities with basic amenities. The campsite provides access to the beach and is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching.
Luxury accommodation
Shipwreck Lodge
Located near the park, Shipwreck Lodge offers luxury accommodations inspired by the shipwrecks along the Skeleton Coast. The lodge features stylish rooms, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and guided activities to explore the surrounding area.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp
Situated near the park, Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp offers luxury tented accommodations in a remote wilderness area. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining tent, and guided game drives to see desert-adapted wildlife.
Serra Cafema Camp
Located near the park, Serra Cafema Camp offers luxury accommodations overlooking the Kunene River. The camp features luxurious chalets, a swimming pool, and guided activities such as nature walks and boat trips.
Other Attractions in Namibia
Etosha National Park
Fish River Canyon Park
Namib-Naukluft Park
Tsau Khaeb National Park
Waterberg Plateau Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about keleton Coast Park, Namibia.
The park earned its name from the bleached whale and seal bones that littered the shore, remnants of the whaling industry and seal hunting in the past.
Skeleton Coast Park is known for its rugged and desolate beauty, as well as its rich maritime history and abundant wildlife
The park covers an area of approximately 16,845 square kilometers (6,500 square miles), extending from the Ugab River in the south to the Kunene River in the north.
Despite its harsh environment, Skeleton Coast Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants, lions, and brown hyenas.
Yes, Skeleton Coast Park is famous for its numerous shipwrecks, which dot the coastline and serve as eerie reminders of the area’s treacherous seas.
Yes, the park is home to several cultural sites, including the remnants of ancient civilizations and rock art left by indigenous peoples.
Yes, camping is allowed in designated areas within the park, allowing visitors to experience the remote beauty of the area.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months of April to October, when temperatures are milder and wildlife is more active.
