Surrounded by swirls of mists and shipwrecks the skeleton coast offers spectacular dramatic visuals of the Namibian coastline. Use this opportunity to learn more about Namibia’s Skeleton Coast.

Why you should visit the Skeleton Coastline

The Skeleton Coast may have an arid and desolate climate, but you’d be surprised by what it has to offer. Alongside shipwrecks, the coastline is home to animals that have adapted to this environment. If you’re seeking adventure, Namibia has exactly what you need.

Although Namibia’s coastline was formerly known as The Skeleton Coast, this name now refers to the Skeleton Coast National Park which stretches from the coastline right into the Namib desert.

1. Graveyard of ships

There are numerous shipwrecks resulting from the swelling cold Benguela current which causes dense ocean fog making it extremely hard for ships to navigate, resulting in the many wrecks seen on the shores.

Scattered remains of a ship wreck in the mist on the South African Northern Cape Namaqualand Skeleton Coast

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2. Cape seal colony

Behind all the dunes along the shores lies a very remote and interesting array of wilderness. A visit to the Cape Seal colony is worthwhile.

The dramatic scene of the seal breeding colony, calls this coast home as they fill the beaches up with young pups., offering a variety of other predators to flock to the beaches.

Cape Fur Seals are sitting on Skeleton Coast, in Namibia.

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3. Exploring the ghostly town of Kolmanskop

An abandoned mining settlement a few kilometres from the beaches of the Skeleton Coast. This town was used as a mining village, which attracted many ships that now lie on the shores of Namibia. The first inhabitants of the town were after diamonds which were in abundance. Now left is an eerily sand shell it is worth the visit.

4. Descent of the massive dunes

A thrilling activity not for the faint of heart, the desert along the coastline offers a vast range of tall dunes.

Going down these enormous dunes is one of the most popular things to do when adventuring the Skeleton Coast. Tour operators are always available to ensure the safety of the activity.

A four wheel drive vehicle descends the sand dunes between Walvis bay and Sandwich harbour.

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When exploring the Skeleton Coast, travelling with a reputable Namibian company is important, as the remote area can be challenging and dangerous.

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