What to do in Skeleton Coast

Depart from your lodge, led by your all-knowing guide, to see for yourself why it's called the Skeleton Coast. Drive along the craggy coastline where the remains of boats tell the story of seafarers who lost their battle with the ocean and the bleached skeletons of whales stand eerily among them. Hear the legends and truths of these shipwrecks from your guide and stop to capture the most photographed wrecks in Namibia. As the fog rolls off the Atlantic Ocean, the surreal landscape becomes even more so!

There’s nowhere on Earth quite like the Skeleton Coast: a ghostly stretch of deserted beach backed by high, wind-rippled dunes, the listing hulks of ancient whaling ships decaying forlornly in the sand, and the vast sun-bleached bones of their prey visible, semi-buried beside them. The best way to grasp the true scale of this unique landscape is undoubtedly with a bird’s-eye view.

Game drive into interiors as dry as the skeletons along the coast in search of the lush desert oases. Your knowledgable guide will share the secrets of the desert-adapted creatures who come from miles to drink at the springs. Pull up to watch as stately oryx and ambling elephant arrive at the oasis, and the ever-present flurry of birdlife swoops overhead. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade with a glass of something cool before returning to your lodge.

On this remote and rugged coast, you'll find a battalion of Cape fur seals - one of the largest in the world! On a drive down Skeleton Coast, marvel at the sheer numbers (over 200 000) of seals barking and calling to one another. Shielded from the world by sea and sand (and a wall to make sure no one bothers them), the seals feast on fish brought in by the Benguela current. November marks the beginning of mating season and if you're in the vicinity by December, the rolling pups make for quite a sight! Orcas lurk beyond the surf and hyenas wait on the rocky outskirts at dusk and dawn, so you may witness a hunt.

Namibia is famous for its vast and seemingly uninhabitable landscapes, and the Skeleton Coast trumps them all. Set out on a game drive, expertly navigated by your guide, to discover the wildlife that has learnt to survive in the desert. Keep your binoculars affixed to your eyes while scanning the landscape for marching elephant, herds of strutting antelope and prides of lion draped over rocky outcrops (with shaggy brown hyena who often enjoy their leftovers). Marvel at nature's ability to adapt as life plays out on this arid coast. Luckily, you don't have to survive without refreshments, which are readily available!

This experience is offered at Shipwreck Lodge. Explore the remarkable surroundings from the seat of a quad bike, as our guided quad tours provide a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the captivating landscape, all while keeping conservation and environmental impact in mind. As we embark on this exhilarating adventure, we prioritise minimising our footprint on this delicate ecosystem. Following a designated track over the dunes, we ensure that our presence has minimal disturbance on the pristine surroundings. By adhering to the set route, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving the natural habitat and its fragile balance. These quad bike tours take you to a secluded valley, offering a serene oasis amidst the ruggedness of the desert landscape. Here, you can pause, take in the awe-inspiring scenery, and appreciate the untouched tranquillity that surrounds you. It's a moment of respite and connection with nature that will leave a lasting impression. Please keep in mind that the availability of quad bike tours is subject to weather conditions and other factors that may affect the safety and enjoyment of our guests.

This is an experience offered at Shipwreck Lodge. Indulge in a captivating late afternoon drive as the sun begins its descent, casting a golden glow over the ancient desert and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Our expert guides will take you to one of two mesmerising destinations: the shores of the ocean or the Roaring Dunes, both offering breath-taking vistas and unforgettable experiences. At the ocean's edge, you'll witness the wondrous dance between the setting sun and the endless expanse of water. Feel the cool ocean breeze on your skin and listen to the rhythmic crashing of the waves against the shore. Alternatively, we'll take you to the Roaring Dunes, where you'll see and hear a truly remarkable phenomenon. As the dry sand at the crest of the dune is blown off and cascades down, a distinctive sound, resembling a soft roar, fills the air. It's a sight and sound that will leave impression on your memory. During the excursion, we'll treat you to a selection of delectable snacks to savour while basking in surroundings. As you indulge in these culinary treats, your guide will share captivating information and fascinating stories about the area and its remarkable inhabitants. Learn about the unique adaptations of the animals and plants that survive in this terrain and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of life in this harsh environment.