Namibia’s skeleton coast is iconic and famous among all travelers and nature lovers of this world.
Very often, we get these images where the desert meets the sea. In others, the fog is so dense than you can see some ships that unfortunately made it their graveyard. It remains one of the world’s last wild areas where human being still didn’t find a way to permanently settle.
This article describes what you need to know to explore Namibia’s great Skeleton Coast
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Why the name Skeleton Coast?
There are 2 main reasons this region was called Skeleton Coast.
First, it is probably due to the high numbers of whale bones that can be found in there. In fact, local tribes have been scouting the area for centuries to collect these bones and built their hut.
The second reason is that a big number of sailors got stranded here. Indeed, the conditions make it very difficult for navigation. Thus, very often the weather is characterized by an agitated sea, strong currents, strong winds and a very thick fog. Even if you were to survive, there was very little chance for you to make it out alive. In fact, you were unfortunately very likely to die of thirst in the very inhospitable environment.
How to reach?
The Skeleton Coast National Park covers a big chunk of the Namibian coast. While the area north of Mowe Bay is closed to visitors, you can still drive through the untamed southern part.
The drive from Palmwag to Torra Bay is a rough 2 hours one through a rather bumpy road. However, the scenery is splendid. Therefore, we recommend stopping a few times as it is really worth it.
NassPacker Tip : Beware of the gate closing times. They will ask you about your plans at the gate. The permit and timings are different whether you wish to stay within the park or only to transit through. To stay within the park, one must have a valid reservation for Torra Bay or Terrace Bay for instance. In order to transit through the park, you must arrive at the gate before 3pm. Otherwise, you may be denied entry after this time.
Skeleton Park timings :
– Stay in the Park (Entry from 7:30 to 17:00 and Exit from 7:30 to 19h00)
– Transit only (Entry from 07h30 to 15:00 and Exit from 7:30 to 19h00)
Where to stop on the way?
The way to the Skeleton Coast through the Torra Conservancy is out of this world. Landscapes change drastically to confuse you. At this point in your journey, you can easily forget the last time you saw civilization, which was probably in Windhoek.
You start to wonder whether you are still on earth or in a different planet.
The ground turns from white sand, to red rocks, to pitch black rocks to brown dirt. Stopping several times through the drive is a must for every photography lover.
NassPacker Tip : If you are coming from Khorixas, make sure to load up on gas. As a matter of fact, we did not see a single gas station during our drive that day
For more driving tips, read NassPacker’s Ultimate guide to renting a car in Namibia.
Where to stay in the Skeleton Coast?
We decided to push it all the way to Cape Cross to spend the night. However, there are a few options available for campers if you decide to give it more time. The main accommodation would be available in Terrace Bay, Torra Bay and Mowe Bay.
It wouldn’t be such a bad idea to ask for details in advance as the areas are very isolated.
What to see in the Skeleton Coast?
As many areas in Namibia, there won’t be a specific area to visit per se. Rather enjoy the scenic drive and stop whenever you feel like it.Â
The view of the ocean after so much time spent inland in rugged and dry terrain was a blessing. Driving with the ocean/sunset to the right and the desert to the left was an unforgettable experience.
You can stop to dip your feet to feel the ocean.
However, just bear in mind that the waters of the south eastern Atlantic Ocean are freezing. While the benguela current may bring an abundant sea life, they also bring a great danger to bathers. Indeed these beaches often have very strong waves.
Therefore, we don’t recommend swimming in there. You don’t want these beautiful beaches to be the last ones you get to visit.
One can stop at a few shipwrecks and abandoned rigs on the way.
Despite the harsh environment, you can also be lucky enough to encounter animals. You would certainly have more chances to spot animals in Etosha National Park. Nevertheless, this area has a few desert elephants, desert lions, rhinos, zebras, oryxes, kudus, jackals, giraffes and even hyenas.
If you are in for a guaranteed sighting of animals, why don’t you try your luck at the world’s biggest seals colony.
A beautiful place! Would you advice a solo traveller (a lady who does not drive) to visit Namibia?
Hey Jiji,
Hmm definitely. Despite the fact that it’s a country that is best visited driving with some friends, I would still recommend to visit it as a solo traveller.
You would probably need in that case to join a tour. There are a few group tours that can take you around the main attractions. Some even combine Namibia with other surrounding countries, if you have more time.