THE SKELETON COAST IS AN EXTREMELY WILD and desolate stretch of land where the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean meet. Its name is most likely derived from the combination of whale and seal skeletons, as well as the numerous shipwrecks along the coastline.

The region consists mainly of the Skeleton Coast and Dorob National Parks, and the main towns of the region are Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Both towns are tourist friendly and offer many attractions. Henties Bay is another well-known holiday town here, as is Langstrand which is situated about halfway between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

This coastline is very popular amongst anglers and keen fishermen make yearly pilgrimages to places like Terrace Bay, Torra Bay, Mile 108, Mile 72 and Jakkalsputz. In past years people used this area as a 4x4 playground causing severe track pollution, strict regulations on off-road driving are now in place. You need a permit to drive on most of the roads, and some areas can only be entered if you’re accompanied by an accredited guide.

Although strictly controlled for conservation reasons, the inland parts of the Skeleton Coast also offers a lot of recreational opportunities. On some of the off-road trails, you can view the magnificent Welwitschia plants up close and on the Welwitschia Plains 4WD Trail near Swakopmund you’ll drive through an almost surreal moon landscape.

Major Attractions:
Skeleton Coast National Park.
The Cape Cross Seal Reserve just north of Henties Bay is home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. The area is of historic interest as it marks the spot where the first European, the Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão, set foot on the coast of southwestern Africa in 1486.
Close to the reserve is a pool which, due to old mining activities, is high in salt and minerals. As one easily floats on these waters, it’s referred to as the Dead Sea Swimhole.
Swakopmund is a charming town offering many attractions like the Aquarium and Snake Park, colonial style architecture, museums, restaurants and a beautiful pier.
Dune 7 near Walvis Bay is a popular spot for off-road dune and quad bike driving and the bay is ideal for kayaking with dolphins and seals.
Pelican Point acts as a natural breakwater for Walvis Bay and the lighthouse is worth a visit.
The Welwitschia Plains 4WD Trail and Moon Landscape are both worthy attractions.

Be the first to leave a comment.

Be the first to submit a link or media file

Skeleton Coast National Park
Walvis Bay
Swakopmund