Skeleton Coast Safari Tours
What are the reasons to visit the Skeleton Coast?
Historically, it denoted the entirety of Namibia’s coastline. Currently, the designation “Skeleton Coast” pertains exclusively to the area encompassed by the Skeleton Coast National Park. The park encompasses 500 kilometers of beachfront, extending from the Ugab River in the south to the Kunene River in the north.
The park’s foreboding moniker derives from the spice trade routes, as cautious mariners navigated Namibia’s barren coastline en route to and from India. Impeded by dense sea fog common along the coast, numerous vessels encountered disastrous fates, resulting in a shipyard scattered around the shoreline, attracting both photographers and nature enthusiasts. Scenic flights are prevalent in the region, providing visitors with an aerial perspective of the maritime cemetery underneath.
- The ocean serves as a seasonal habitat for whales, seals, and sea lions, while lions, giraffes, springboks, rhinos, and baboons inhabit the riverbeds inland. The diverse and varied topography includes towering dunes, old Welwitschia plants, desert lichen fields, flowering stones known as lithops, and clay hills along the Hoarusib River. The available lodging alternatives in the vicinity include campsites, lodges, and bungalows.
Skeleton Coast Tours and Safaris
Hotels and Lodges in Skeleton Coast
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How to get to the Skeleton Coast?
The Skeleton Coast is situated in Namibia along its extensive western coastline. To reach this coastline region of this intriguing country, many contend that flying into Hosea Kutako International Airport is the optimal choice.
You may choose to rent a vehicle and embark on a self-drive tour of Namibia, which encompasses this stop and is likely the most prevalent method for travelers to explore the country. You may participate in an organized tour with a group of similar travelers, or if you prefer to maximize your time at the place, a fly-in option is suitable for you.
Upon opting for air travel, you will land at Namibia’s primary international airport, from where you may thereafter depart either from this location or from Eros Airport, located a few distance away. Your journey will involve an air transfer, typically on a smaller charter aircraft, such as a Cessna Caravan, accommodating a pilot and approximately six more passengers. The air charter transports you directly to the lodge’s own runway, where hotel personnel will welcome you.
If you are inclined towards adventure to authentically see Africa and envision yourself as Indiana Jones, contemplate embarking on a road trip. Select your vehicle (2×4 or 4×4 as appropriate for your planned trip), obtain a map or GPS, and embark on your journey! Namibia is an excellent destination for a self-drive vacation. The vistas are extraordinary and unparalleled globally, and the roads are extensive and secure.
It is unnecessary to proceed directly to Skeleton Coast upon arrival in Namibia. Numerous locations and sights abound along the route, allowing for a week or two-week vacation in this stunning site.
Is the Skeleton Coast located within a national park, and does it host any wildlife?
The Skeleton Coast, extending 40 km (24 miles) in width and 500 km (310 miles) in length, is among Namibia’s greatest national parks. This national park differs somewhat from Kruger National Park or Maasai Mara National Park, where wildlife is the primary draw. A primary cause for visitors to Skeleton Coast National Park is its distinctive landscape and both destructive and captivating coastline.
Certainly, there remain animals to observe, but in diminished numbers. These encompass the renowned desert-adapted elephant, which, if fortunate enough to encounter, are among the most remarkable beings to observe on this world. Numerous travelers from across the globe seek these magnificent beasts but often fail to encounter them. One may assume that locating an object as substantial as an elephant would be straightforward; but, in one of the oldest and most expansive deserts, this assumption warrants reconsideration.
Additional species to observe are the desert lion, brown hyena, endangered rhinoceros, and, notably, the playful Cape fur seal, often referred to as the dogs of the sea. Should you have the opportunity to engage in diving or snorkeling with these inquisitive beings, you will comprehend the reason!
Upon entering Skeleton Coast National Park, one can anticipate extensive white sand, imposing dunes, and an elongated coastline upon reaching the ocean. From start to finish, it is an unforgettable adventure.
What is the optimal period for visiting the Skeleton Coast?
During the warmer months, one may genuinely appreciate the experience of being in a desert. Namibia’s summer months may coincide with your winter; therefore, verify this information. The summer months in Namibia span from October to March, characterized by warmer days.
The optimal time to visit the Skeleton Coast is between July and August. The probability of precipitation is minimal, and the temperatures are agreeable, averaging 21°C (70°F). We were not the originators of this clandestine season, which has gained popularity, making it the most favored period for travel to Namibia – therefore, plan ahead (a year in advance is advisable, believe us)!
From December to March, the weather can be somewhat rainy; nonetheless, if you can endure the conditions (particularly appealing to travelers from the UK), this period represents the optimal time to visit – the true hidden season. The precipitation deters the majority of travelers, leading them to eschew certain months. Unbeknownst to many, the finest experiences are still forthcoming. The rains convert the arid desert into verdant expanses and draw wildlife to its abundant feast.
The Skeleton Coast, infamous for its numerous shipwrecks, is characterized by persistent fog. The summer months, despite being rainy, are unexpectedly warmer, and the precipitation dissipates the mist much to a drop curtain; so, this period is optimal for visiting the Skeleton Coast.