The Skeleton Coast Park and Wilderness Areas protect approximately one-third of the country’s coastline. It is one of the most awe-inspiring places on the planet. The lunar landscape meeting pristine sand dunes neighbouring the harsh Atlantic offers true diversity. The landscape is a sight in itself but, interdispersed with varied wildlife and memories of earlier life, this area is a true visual spectacle.
The southern section is easily accessible by car and as a result plays an important role in any self-drive holiday. Visitors can drive the 350kms between Swakopmund and Terrace Bay along the barren coastline between the cold pounding ocean and stark desert interior. This is a chance to see a variety of shipwrecks, the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, old deserted diamond mines and the beginning of the northern dune-sea.
There is little, if any, decent accommodation along the southern section so you either have to be prepared to rough it or make it a long day’s driving between Damaraland and Swakopmund.
The northern section of the Skeleton Coast is the wildest and most awe-inspiring area of the country. Getting into this area is not easy or cheap as the only access is by air, however the result is a truly rewarding and life-enhancing experience. We could not recommend anywhere more highly.
There are two outstanding lodges – Skeleton Coast Camp and Serra Cafema – which we would rank amongst the very best experiences in Africa.
A more basic and lower cost option is the Skeleton Research Camp.
