Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Where desolate white sands meet the dark waters of the Atlantic: the Skeleton Coast is starkly, hauntingly beautiful.
Yet while scenically compelling, it’s a harsh, unforgiving wilderness where both humans and wildlife eke out a living at the very margins of existence.
Inland from the coast, the Himba continue their traditional, semi-nomadic lifestyle, their skin and hair covered in a red-ochre butter that affords both protection from the sun – and an extraordinary beauty.
For elephants, as for humans, lack of water is the major stumbling block to life in this often hostile environment. Key to their survival are ephemeral rivers, such as the Hoanib and Hoarusib, lined with nutritious plants, their residual pools providing much-needed pockets of fresh water.
Heading west, the rivers flow into sand, choking the trees that reach down for water. As the vegetation runs out, so the dunes start, or expanses of gravel, the relentless glare from the overhead sun suddenly thrown into soft focus by an encroaching mist.
And then comes the ocean. Seals bobbing up and down in the cold surf making it easy to smile. But don’t be fooled, for these are treacherous waters – witness the vestiges of shipwrecks rusting in the shallows. Huge whale bones marooned on the beach are matched by the sea-smoothed branches of dead trees.
By day, the occasional lone jackal, loping across the beach in search of an unfortunate seal pup, accentuates the eeriness. As night falls, a brown hyena may loom out of the gathering gloom. Even here, life goes on.
While the southern part of this coastline is accessible to self-drivers, the north remains off limits. To get here, to the heart of the Skeleton Coast, you need to fly in to one of the handful of specialist camps whose in-depth knowledge of this exceptional area is a must.
Safaris visiting Skeleton Coast
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Ruppell's Korhaan Fly-in Safari
9 days • 4 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Explore Namibia’s remotest wildernesses while staying at some of the most exclusive luxury camps in the country. This epic fly-in safari will deliver otherworldly landscapes, fascinating wildlife and genuine cultural experiences.
US$10,750 - US$15,800 per person
Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari
9 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Stay in four of Namibia’s most famous environments on this fly-in safari. It would be hard to pack more variety into a trip of the same length.
US$10,990 - US$14,610 per person
Goshawk Fly-in Safari
12 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Discover Namibia’s remarkable landscapes, fascinating wildlife and unique cultures on this luxury adventure flying between a selection of the very best camps and lodges in the country.
US$13,440 - US$19,840 per person
Skeleton Coast Safari
5 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
An epic flying safari exploring some of Namibia’s most spectacular and remote wildernesses. Exceptional pilots, among the best guides in the country and exclusive camps – this a real bucket-list adventure.
US$9,720 - US$14,490 per person
Most recent reviews of our safaris to Skeleton Coast
Click below to browse all 207 reviews from Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.
Arrived 11 Aug 2024, 23 nights
"My Aug 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 17 Aug 2024, 16 nights
"My Namibia August 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 14 Sep 2024, 12 nights
"My Sep 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 21 Jul 2024, 25 nights
"My Jul 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 4 Jul 2024, 16 nights
"Our Namibia trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 5 May 2024, 14 nights
"My May 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 16 Apr 2024, 22 nights
"My Apr 2024 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 12 Apr 2024, 8 nights
"Our April 2024 trip to Namibia"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 12 Nov 2023, 25 nights
"My Nov 2023 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 21 May 2023, 23 nights
"My May 2023 trip"
Overall rating: Excellent
Where to stay in Skeleton Coast
Our suggestions for safari camps in Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Cape Cross Lodge
Right on the Skeleton Coast, between Swakopmund and Damaraland, Cape Cross Lodge has easy access to Cape Cross Seal Reserve.
Hoanib Skeleton Camp
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is actually situated 42km inland in Kaokoland, this said they offer a superb guided day trip to the coast.
Terrace Bay
Terrace Bay is bleak. However, those that stay here come to experience the remote and inhospitable nature of the Skeleton Coast.
Serra Cafema
The luxurious Serra Cafema is in the most remote corner of Namibia - at the north end of Hartmann's Valley, across the Kunene River from Angola.
Skeleton Coast Safaris
Skeleton Coast Safaris is a small, family-run operation that has organised inspirational trips to this remote area of Namibia for nearly 50 years.
Hoanib Valley Camp
The intimate and remote Hoanib Valley Camp offers a rare chance to explore this dramatic corner of Namibia and to search for its sparse desert-adapted wildlife.
Shipwreck Lodge
The only property on this desolate stretch of coastline, the extraordinary Shipwreck Lodge opens up a new section of the Skeleton Coast National Park
Opuwo Country Lodge
Opuwo Country Hotel provides comfortable accommodation is well situated for a night's stop before travelling into remote parts of Kaokoland.
Epupa Camp
Epupa Camp is a welcoming oasis set on the palm-fringed banks of the Kunene River in north-west Namibia and close to Epupa Falls.
Leylandsdrift Camp
Used exclusively on the second night of a Skeleton Coast Safari, Leylandsdrift is in a beautiful location and is a good place to track desert-adapted elephants.
Kunene River Camp
Used exclusively on the final night of a Skeleton Coast Safari, the simple Kunene River Camp occupies a dramatic riverside location with some excellent birding.
Okahirongo Ele. Lodge
Tucked away in Namibia's far northwest Okahirongo Elephant Lodge offers luxurious chalets, with stunning views and plenty of activities.
Kuidas Camp
Usually the first-night stop on a Schoeman Skeleton Coast safari, Kuidas is a very simple camp with stunning views of the Huab River valley.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Skeleton Coast
This is their success for sightings in Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland. Click on a species for more detail. How we work this out.
78% success
72% success
55% success
54% success
40% success
22% success
11% success
7% success
3% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
When to go to Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Skeleton Coast in Namibia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namibia in January
January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.
Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
- Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
- Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
- Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namibia in February
February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.
Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
- The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namibia in March
March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.
Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
- Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namibia in April
Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.
With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.
- Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
- Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
- Migrant birds have started to leave
- Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namibia in May
By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.
May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.
- Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
- The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
- Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
- Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
- Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namibia in June
Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.
Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.
Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.
- Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
- Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
- “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
- Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
- Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namibia in July
Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ÂşC/70ÂşF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.
As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).
- Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
- Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
- The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Namibia in August
August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.
It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.
Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.
- Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
- Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
- Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namibia in September
September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.
In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.
- One of the best months for wildlife viewing
- Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
- Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
- Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
- High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namibia in October
Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ÂşC/100ÂşF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.
In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.
- Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
- Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
- The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
- It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
- Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namibia in November
November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.
Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.
- A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
- With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
- Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
- Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
- Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namibia in December
December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!
Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.
Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.
- Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
- Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
- A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
- Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
- Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland: In detail
Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
The remote north-west of Namibia, known as Kaokoland (or the Kunene Region), is home to dramatic scenery, small populations of game and the Himba people – and beside it lies the equally remote coastline of the famous Skeleton Coast.
This north-western corner of the country is very remote and often difficult to visit – but there are two ways to see it: you can drive yourself along the southern section of the Skeleton Coast, or you can take one of two excellent, but very different, fly-in safaris to the more remote north of the coast.
In addition, you can also visit the very north of the region, staying beside the lush Kunene River. This can be an interesting Kaokoland add-on to either of the fly-in safaris, or as a destination in its own right.
Driving along the Skeleton Coast
The first amazing sight you come across is an enormous breeding colony of Cape fur seals at Cape Cross. You can detour here en route to Damaraland, or stay for a night at the cosy Cape Cross Lodge. Further to the north, deep within the Skeleton Coast National Park, Terrace Bay is a simple government-run restcamp about six hours' drive north of Swakopmund. It's the only place to stay for a very long way!
Fly-in safaris to the Skeleton Coast
Both operations will take you to very remote areas, to the western escarpment and into the narrow coastal belt, and show you a spectacular region. Both can be integrated into longer fly-drive or fly-in trips. They're both amongst the best trips in Africa, but neither is cheap. So read on, then talk to us for a comparison, and we'll help to choose the right one for you.
Skeleton Coast Safaris
Each trip is usually escorted by one of the Schoeman family, who acts as pilot, driver and expert guide. You spend every night in a different area, sleeping in dome tents at tiny permanent camps – Kuidas Camp and beside the dry Huab River; Purros Camp near a spring in the Hoarusib River; and Kunene River Camp, on the lush banks of the Kunene River.
The Schoemans are amongst the best guides in the country, and will open your eyes to this unique wilderness. These trips are hugely informative, giving unparalleled insight into the area and we cannot recommend them too highly.
You can find further details of the itinerary by looking at Expert Africa's Skeleton Coast safari trip, and also by checking out the three camps used on this safari.
Fly-in safari to the Skeleton Coast Camp
During your three- or four-night stay at the camp (departing Windhoek every Wednesday or Saturday respectively) you explore various stark and beautiful areas within the reserve area and just outside it, with your professional guide. These may include trips over the vast dune belts to the coast or travelling inland to visit a Himba settlement. You may also get the opportunity to see lichen fields, desert-adapted elephants and visit a cape fur seal colony and ancient stone circles. With so much to see and do in this fascinating area you will not get bored – most people choose to take fully day trips from the camp having a delicious picnic en route.
Kaokoland add-on
Map of Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Choices for where to stay in Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland: Safaris
Ruppell's Korhaan Fly-in Safari
9 days • 4 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Explore Namibia’s remotest wildernesses while staying at some of the most exclusive luxury camps in the country. This epic fly-in safari will deliver otherworldly landscapes, fascinating wildlife and genuine cultural experiences.
US$10,750 - US$15,800 per person
Goshawk Fly-in Safari
12 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Discover Namibia’s remarkable landscapes, fascinating wildlife and unique cultures on this luxury adventure flying between a selection of the very best camps and lodges in the country.
US$13,440 - US$19,840 per person
Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari
9 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Stay in four of Namibia’s most famous environments on this fly-in safari. It would be hard to pack more variety into a trip of the same length.
US$10,990 - US$14,610 per person
Skeleton Coast Safari
5 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
An epic flying safari exploring some of Namibia’s most spectacular and remote wildernesses. Exceptional pilots, among the best guides in the country and exclusive camps – this a real bucket-list adventure.
US$9,720 - US$14,490 per person
13 of our best lodges and safari camps in Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland
There is plenty of choice in accommodation in this area. Ask us for more details of what's where, and what's likely to suit you best!
Cape Cross Lodge
Right on the Skeleton Coast, between Swakopmund and Damaraland, Cape Cross Lodge has easy access to Cape Cross Seal Reserve.
Hoanib Skeleton Camp
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is actually situated 42km inland in Kaokoland, this said they offer a superb guided day trip to the coast.
Terrace Bay
Terrace Bay is bleak. However, those that stay here come to experience the remote and inhospitable nature of the Skeleton Coast.
Serra Cafema
The luxurious Serra Cafema is in the most remote corner of Namibia - at the north end of Hartmann's Valley, across the Kunene River from Angola.
Skeleton Coast Safaris
Skeleton Coast Safaris is a small, family-run operation that has organised inspirational trips to this remote area of Namibia for nearly 50 years.
Hoanib Valley Camp
The intimate and remote Hoanib Valley Camp offers a rare chance to explore this dramatic corner of Namibia and to search for its sparse desert-adapted wildlife.
Shipwreck Lodge
The only property on this desolate stretch of coastline, the extraordinary Shipwreck Lodge opens up a new section of the Skeleton Coast National Park
Opuwo Country Lodge
Opuwo Country Hotel provides comfortable accommodation is well situated for a night's stop before travelling into remote parts of Kaokoland.
Epupa Camp
Epupa Camp is a welcoming oasis set on the palm-fringed banks of the Kunene River in north-west Namibia and close to Epupa Falls.
Kuidas Camp
Usually the first-night stop on a Schoeman Skeleton Coast safari, Kuidas is a very simple camp with stunning views of the Huab River valley.
Kunene River Camp
Used exclusively on the final night of a Skeleton Coast Safari, the simple Kunene River Camp occupies a dramatic riverside location with some excellent birding.
Leylandsdrift Camp
Used exclusively on the second night of a Skeleton Coast Safari, Leylandsdrift is in a beautiful location and is a good place to track desert-adapted elephants.