
Skeleton Coast National Park
The Skeleton Coast National Park of Namibia is a stark, hostile but fascinating region that offers up a different aspect of desert life, one that has to be experienced and seen to be believed. Free roaming lions, rhinos and elephants, massive seal colonies, inland waterholes surrounded by gemsbok, springbok and eland and then birdlife.
Skeleton Coast National Park Facts
- Size: 16 845 km²
- When to visit the park: Year-round
- Rainfall: less than 50mm per annum
- Altitude: Sea level to 500m above sea level
- Location: Northern west coast of Namibia
- Accommodation: Damaraland Lodges
Information On Skeleton Coast National Park
The Skeleton Coast's desolate coastline is a spooky desert shore with massive dunes and treacherous rocks where mighty storms and violent surf claimed many ships through the centuries. Stories abound of sailors walking for hundreds of kilometres through this barren Namibian landscape in search of food and water, only to perish in this hostile coastal desert.
The landscape includes dunes, canyons and mountain ranges, all of which are synonymous with Namibia. The climate is seemingly strange for desert conditions: dense fog and cold sea breezes predominate, blown in by the cold Benguela Current.
A fly-in safari or scenic flight is the best way to view the park's shipwrecks and coastal splendour.
Inattentive whales have also found themselves washed up along the shore, and their massive bone structures are scattered along the coast. Animals in the park have been forced to adapt to overcome the problems of living in a desert-like climate. Smaller species such as genet, caracal, baboon, springbok, and brown hyena live in the area all year round. Larger animals, such as black rhinos, elephant and lion, tend to migrate along the channels, searching for precious food and water.
The primary wildlife attraction of the Skeleton Coast is Cape Cross, which harbours a seal colony numbering in the tens of thousands. The dunes are alive with reptiles and insects, including geckos, snakes, spiders, wasps, beetles, and termites.
The birds are found mostly along the rivers, and some Namibian endemic species can be found in this area, including one of the world's rarest terns. Some 300,000 waders visit annually, mainly flamingos and pelicans.
Where is Skeleton Coast National Park located?
The Skeleton Coast national park is located on the northwestern Atlantic Ocean coastline of Namibia and is approximately 40 km wide and 500 km long. The national park starts at the Ugab River and ends at the Kunene River (Angola Border).
Click on this Google Maps links to view exactly where the National park is located: Google Maps - Skeleton Coast National Park
Best Time to Visit Skeleton Coast National Park?
This is without question a year-round destination, no matter whether it be winter or summer. The Atlantic Ocean acts as a massive air-conditioning unit and keeps the coast area of the park nice a cool. It is only when one ventures inland towards the mountains that it starts to warm up.
The few times we have travelled up to the Kunene River mouth, we have always been in fog or fog that has lifted slightly (almost like low clouds); even in summer, we have had to wear long-sleeved clothing as it was always chilly.
Main Attractions Of Skeleton Coast National Park
- Ghostly shipwrecks
- Desolate solitude
- Huge seal colonies
- Unique desert ecosystem
- Excellent photographic location
- Kunene River mouth
- Sand dune driving
- Beach driving
- Ideal temperature year-round
- Desert Rhino Camp
Desert Rhino Camp is located within an awe-inspiring 1-million-acre private Palmwag Reserve, nestled in Namibia's breathtaking and remote northwest region. Perfectly positioned between the iconic Etosha National Park and the dramatic Skeleton Coast.
Damaraland and the Palmwag, where the camp resides, is without a doubt one of Namibia's most remarkable destinations. The privacy and seclusion here are unmatched, providing guests with an exclusive retreat into nature.
- Mushara Outpost
On the edge of Etosha National Park, Mushara Outpost offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of the wilderness. The lodge's steel and canvas design captures the essence of a classic African safari, blending perfectly with its natural surroundings.
Start your day with an exhilarating game drive into the Etosha National Park, home to an array of iconic African wildlife. After a day of exploration, relax by the inviting pool or indulge in gourmet meals featuring local flavours in the elegant dining area.
- Zambezi Mubala Lodge
Zambezi Mubala Lodge is one of Namibia's best-kept secrets with a Zambezi Riverfront setting, 450 species of bird and good fishing all on the doorstep.
The perfect base from which to explore all that surrounds or simply sit back and relax in the lap of luxury.
- Camp Sossus
Nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, Camp Sossus offers an unforgettable escape into one of the world's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. This exclusive Camp combines luxury with sustainability, providing guests with a chance to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
During your stay at Camp Sossus, immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the Namib Desert. Explore its stunning vistas through guided activities such as nature walks, scenic drives, or stargazing under impossibly clear night skies.
- Mowani Mountain Camp
Set in the stunning landscapes of Damaraland, Mowani Mountain Camp combines luxury with natural beauty. Surrounded by granite boulders and vast plains, the camp offers a peaceful retreat in Namibia's untouched wilderness.
During your stay, you'll have the opportunity to explore the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. Discover ancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein, search for desert-adapted elephants, or simply relax on your private deck, soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery.
- Doro Nawas Camp
Doro Nawas Camp is set in the breathtaking Damaraland region, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the floodplain of a tributary of the Huab River. This exceptional location blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of its surroundings, offering guests a truly immersive experience.
The camp features 16 thoughtfully designed units with natural walls that harmonise perfectly with the rugged landscape. Each unit reflects an understated elegance, enhancing the experience of staying in such a remote and pristine environment.