Skeleton Coast National Park

The iconic Skeleton Coast National Park is one of the most remote areas of the Kaokoveld, extending from the Kunene River in the north to the Ugab River in the south – giving it a total surface of approx. 16,400 sqkm. The attraction of this remote area lies in the untouched landscapes of windswept dunes, rugged canyon walls and extensive mountain ranges. Its aura of mystery and mightiness is largely due to the dense coastal fog and cold sea breezes caused by the cold Benguela Ocean current from the Arctic, and bones scattered on its beaches from where the park’s name derives. The remains of shipwrecks scattered along the coast bear witness to many ships, which have come to grief along these desolate shores.

Wildlife sightings include giraffes, antelopes such as oryx and springboks, various bird species including birds of prey, and, seasonally, visitors have a very good chance of seeing the desert-adapted elephant. Both lion and brown hyena frequent the area, with research projects currently conducted on these and other predators in the area.