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SKELETON COAST - KUNENE

The Skeleton Coast and Kunene River region in northwestern Namibia are among the country’s most remote and mysterious landscapes. The Skeleton Coast stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, known for its desolate beauty, rolling fog, scattered shipwrecks, and an eerie sense of isolation. Further north, the Kunene River forms the natural border between Namibia and Angola, offering a stark contrast with its lush riverbanks, flowing rapids, and rich wildlife. These regions are home to unique desert-adapted animals, the nomadic Himba people, and some of Namibia’s most breathtaking scenery, making them a dream destination for intrepid travelers.

The Skeleton Coast runs along Namibia’s northern coastline, from Swakopmund up to the Angolan border. The Skeleton Coast National Park covers much of this stretch, with entry points at Torra Bay (south) and Möwe Bay (north). The Kunene River flows from the Angolan highlands, forming the border between Namibia and Angola. Key locations include Epupa Falls, Marienfluss Valley, and the Serra Cafema area.


What to Do in the Skeleton Coast & Kunene River Region


Skeleton Coast:

  • Shipwreck Sightseeing – Visit famous wrecks like the Eduard Bohlen and Zeila.

  • Cape Cross Seal Colony – See thousands of Cape fur seals along the rocky shores.

  • Hoanib Valley & Desert Wildlife Safaris – Spot desert-adapted elephants, lions, giraffes, and brown hyenas.

  • Sand Dune Adventures – Explore massive dunes that meet the ocean.

  • Photography & Scenic Flights – Capture the haunting beauty of the coastline from above.


Kunene River Region:

  • Epupa Falls – A stunning series of waterfalls surrounded by baobab trees.

  • Himba Cultural Encounters – Visit traditional Himba villages and learn about their way of life.

  • River Safaris & Kayaking – Glide along the Kunene River, spotting crocodiles and birdlife.

  • Marienfluss & Hartmann Valley – Remote, untouched landscapes perfect for scenic drives and photography.


Where to Stay


  • Luxury: Shipwreck Lodge (Skeleton Coast), Serra Cafema Camp (Kunene)

  • Mid-range: Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, Epupa Camp

  • Budget: Torra Bay Campsite, Kapika Waterfall Camp (Epupa Falls)


Weather & Best Time to Visit


  • Skeleton Coast: Cool, foggy, and windy year-round (10–25°C / 50–77°F). Best visited May to October when conditions are stable.

  • Kunene River: Hot, semi-arid climate with temperatures ranging from 20–40°C (68–104°F). Best time is April to November for comfortable conditions and full waterfalls.


How to Get There


  • By Car: A 4x4 is essential due to rough terrain. From Windhoek, it takes 8-12 hours to reach the Skeleton Coast and Kunene region.

  • By Air: Private charter flights land at airstrips near Hoanib, Serra Cafema, and Epupa Falls.

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
SOUTHERN NAMIBIA
SWAKOP - WALVIS BAY
SOSSUSVLEI
DAMARALAND
SKELETON COAST - KUNENE

NAMIBIA SAFARI ITINERARIES
GET SOME IDEAS AND LET US CUSTOMIZE A TRIP FOR YOU!

FLYING THE SKELETON COAST

6 DAYS

USD16 300.00

Embark on an extraordinary journey across Namibia’s remote Skeleton Coast with the legendary Schoeman family. This exclusive flying safari offers an exhilarating way to explore Namibia’s wild northwest, combining scenic flights with rugged ground expeditions in modified classic Land Rovers. Pilots and guides with decades of experience will transport you across vast landscapes, revealing breathtaking scenery, fascinating geology, desert-adapted wildlife, and pristine wilderness.

FLY INTO THE DUNES

6 DAYS

R51 050.00

This Namibian safari begins with a flight to Kulala Desert Lodge for three nights, where guests can explore Sossusvlei's dunes, enjoy hot air ballooning, and take nature drives. Afterward, travel to Walvis Bay and stay at Flamingo Villas Boutique Hotel, with the highlight being the Mola Mola Day Tour. This marine adventure offers encounters with seals, dolphins, and whales, along with a visit to Sandwich Harbour, part of the UNESCO-listed Namib Sand Sea

NAMIBIA UNTAMED

10 DAYS

R82 985.00

This unforgettable Namibian adventure allows you to experience this magnificent country with a small group and your own professional and experienced safari guide, from Etosha to Swakopmund and Sossusvlei - staying in comfortable lodges.

Nicknamed the "ageless land," Namibia boasts a rich history visible through its ancient rock art created by Stone Age artists and geological wonders like the petrified forest. These timeless elements, coupled with the country's wide-open spaces and serene silence, create a powerful sense of antiquity and wilderness.

NAMIBIA BY ROAD

10 DAYS

R95 700.00

An immersive small group safari journey through Namibia includes the surreal landscapes of Sossusvlei to the coastal charm of Swakopmund, and the ancient mysteries of Damaraland, culminating with wildlife encounters at Ongava Game Reserve. Expert-guided game drives promise sightings of the Big Five. Concluding with a visit to the Okonjima Day Visitor Centre and the AfriCat Foundation, this safari seamlessly blends Namibia's natural wonders, cultural richness, and wildlife conservation.

THE NAMIB CIRCLE

12 DAYS

R93 650.00

Embrace the untamed beauty of Namibia on this captivating 12-day journey. Embark on wildlife adventures in Etosha National Park, learn about remote Himba tribes, unveil ancient rock art in Damaraland, and marvel at the otherworldly landscapes of Sossusvlei. This safari, with your own vehicle and private guide, combines the thrill of discovery with luxurious comfort, ensuring an unforgettable Namibian experience.

MY NAMIBIA SAFARI

12 DAYS

R123 300.00

This Namibia itinerary offers a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife experiences, from the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the rugged terrain of Damaraland and the game-rich plains of Etosha. Staying in comfortable four star lodges and tented camps in private reserves and conservancies - flying between camps saves a lot of time, and provides an incredible view from above of the breathtaking panoramas below.

ULTIMATE NAMIBIA SAFARI

13 DAYS

R236 000.00

The ultimate 13-day luxury safari adventure in Namibia includes visits to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife reserves, beginning with a 3-night stay at Little Kulala at Sossusvlei, then 3 nights at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp. Flying between camps and on to Serra Cafema for 3 nights, a luxury camp on the banks of the Kunene River, with the final 3 nights at Little Ongava, a private reserve on the edge of Etosha National Park. Incredible wildlife and a range of activities from game drives, guided walks, quad biking, stargazing, hot air balloon rides, and visits to local communities.

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