In northern Namibia is the Skeleton Coast National Park; a protected area that stretches from Sandwich Harbour, south of Swakopmund; to the Kunene River, taking in around 20,000 sq km of dunes and gravel plains. This is one of the world’s most inhospitable, but hauntingly beautiful places and is particularly well-named.
Due to the strong ocean currents and thick coastal fog on Namibia’s coastline; the Skeleton Coast has been described as the world’s largest shipping graveyard, and these shipwrecks can still be seen today. Sailors washed ashore had to endure the cold Benguela current and choppy Atlantic waters; only to find themselves with no hope of survival in the desert.
The Skeleton Coast is stark, but it is stunning; an isolated stretch of coast; dominated by sand dunes, gravel plains, salt pans, and hills.
The fog has created a unique ecosystem that has enabled some unusual plants and a surprising variety of animals; to adapt in order to survive. With over 100 species of lichen growing on the plains; desert-adapted elephants and even black rhinos, lions, and giraffes; roam up and down the dry river courses.
Distances are vast in the Skeleton Coast Park; consequently, the northern section of the park; is restricted to fly-in safaris only. This is the best way to see the enormity of this isolation, the beauty, and the harshness.
Activities
Depending on where you stay; there are several activities in this barren landscape. Visit shipwrecks that scatter the coastline or a Seal colony; game drives to see desert-adapted wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and lions. Jackals and brown hyenas scour the shore for washed-up seals or fish. Birdlife is also prolific and you should most certainly pack your binos for Rüppell’s korhaans and Benguela long-billed larks. Further toward the coast, you should also be able to spot Tractrac Chats, as well as Jaegers and Skuas around the seal colonies. The most fun is sliding down the huge dunes. Or sitting atop the 4×4 vehicle and sliding down – it’s a fantastic feeling.
Brown hyena on the Skeleton Coast
Cape Cross Seal Reserve
Within the Skeleton Coast Park is the Cape Cross Seal Reserve. As treacherous as the skeleton coast may have been for mankind, this rocky shoreline represents the breeding ground for the largest colony of fur seals in southern Africa. The Portuguese navigator and explorer Diego Cão reached Cape Cross in January 1486. He was the first European to visit this area. He is known to have erected two padrãos in the areas during his first voyage. One is in Monte Negro, and the second at Cape Cross.
Seal colony from Shipwreck Lodge
Terrace Bay
Terrace Bay is also in the Skeleton Coast Park and the last place for private vehicles on self-drive holidays in the park. Hereafter; there are no official roads! Terrace Bay is 287km north of Henties Bay and around a 5 – 6 hours drive north of Swakopmund. Usually it is a one-night stop for self-drive visitors en route to Damaraland. It is a great place to experience the remoteness that Skeleton Coast National Park offers. This is a destination for the angling crowd. It’s a remote location. But the chances of catching a variety of fish here are excellent, and amongst the best on Namibia’s coastline. Therefore; it attracts a lot of locals on longer stays.
When to visit Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast is an excellent year-round destination. It stays relatively cool throughout the year due to the Atlantic fog. But the desert temperatures can change at the drop of a hat, going from freezing to boiling in a matter of minutes. Therefore, you should always travel with a warm jumper (or two).
November to April are the summer months at the Skeleton Coast. In the desert, rainfall patterns are never guaranteed, but you can expect some showers at this time. The rain does, however, keep the air clear and crisp. The mornings are also less foggy. This is an excellent time of year for birders to visit as the migrants are out in force.
May to October is the winter months. During the day, temperatures hover around a very pleasant 21 to 25 degrees Celsius. But be warned; the mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially on an open game drive. There’s virtually no rain at this time of year and the desert is at its iconic, splendid best.
