DESTINATION

Skeleton Coast

Remote shores, fog, dunes and vast, elemental landscapes.

WHY GO

Skeleton Coast: what to know before you go.

The Skeleton Coast is a remote, fog-bound stretch of Namibia's Atlantic shoreline where cold ocean meets desert. It is known for shipwrecks, seal colonies and a feeling of true isolation. Access is controlled and the far north is largely limited to fly-in and concession travel.

When to visit

The coast is cool and often foggy all year. Clearer conditions and more comfortable temperatures tend to fall in the drier months, roughly May to October. Fly-in journeys depend on weather as much as season.

How to get there

Self-drive visitors usually reach the southern Skeleton Coast from Swakopmund, via Cape Cross and the park gates, on salt and gravel roads with a permit where required. The northern section is generally reached by light aircraft as part of a private-air journey.

Highlights

Cape Cross seal reserve

A large Cape fur seal colony, easy to reach from Swakopmund.

Shipwrecks and bone-white beaches

Wrecks and whale bones on the shore give the coast its name.

Remote desert landscapes

Gravel plains, dunes and rocky headlands meet the sea.

Private-air access

Fly-in itineraries reach areas that are very hard to see by road.

Practical tips

Check permit and access rules before you travel, carry extra fuel and water, and share your route. Do not leave marked routes. Distances and driving times are approximate and depend on route, season and road conditions. Tsawises confirms the route, vehicle and timings in your written proposal.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for the Skeleton Coast?

Entry to the Skeleton Coast National Park is controlled and permits or concession access apply to many areas. Confirm what you need for your planned route.

Can I self-drive the Skeleton Coast?

The southern section is accessible by road with the right preparation. The far north is mainly reached on guided or fly-in journeys.

When is the best time to visit the Skeleton Coast?

Conditions are cool and foggy most of the year. The drier months, roughly May to October, are usually the most comfortable.