Skeleton Coast

Namibia, Africa

Skeleton Coast, known for its haunting beauty, dramatic landscapes, and shipwrecks, is an unforgettable destination in Namibia. With its desolate beaches, towering dunes, and intriguing wildlife, the coast offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. Visitors can explore the Skeleton Coast National Park, witness the skeletal remains of shipwrecks along the shore, and glimpse unique wildlife like seals and desert-adapted elephants. This remote haven is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural wonder.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Other

Airport

Maun

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Skeleton Coast

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Skeleton Coast National Park

Discover unique landscapes and shipwrecks along the coast.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Observe thousands of Cape fur seals at this reserve.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast

Explore haunting shipwrecks scattered along the shoreline.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Scenic Flight over the Coast

Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the coastline.

Booking required
5

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Explore the Hoanib River Valley

Experience stunning wildlife and dramatic landscapes here.

Booking required
6

Est. 4.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Namib Desert

Witness the surreal dunes and striking red sands.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Skeleton Coast Camping

Camp under the stars in a remote coastal setting.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings

Discover ancient rock art and cultural heritage.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cape Fur Seal Colony

See playful seals and learn about their habitat.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Guided Nature Walk

Learn about flora and fauna from local guides.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Namibia Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pap

VE

Maize porridge, staple food. (National dish)

Biltong

Dried cured meat, often beef or game.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast iron pot.

Kapana

Grilled meat skewers, popular street food.

Oshifima

VE

Traditional porridge made from millet.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)