Skeleton Coast

The stark beauty of this stretch of coast is something only to be seen as few visitors find the words to deliver an adequate description of their experience. The name dates back to the early 1930’s when the publisher of a South West Annual, Mr. Sam Davis, stated in an article concerned with a
Shipwreck
missing plane of a local celebrity, that “his bones will forever lay on the coast of skeletons, referring to the many wrecks found on the coast, hence the name stuck. The Skeleton Coast boasts a fascinating history and one will deeply appreciate the solitude and unpredictable weather when accompanied by a local of the region that can take you into past events and the means of survival that living things in the area have adapted.

Least accessible to the general public is Mowe Bay where the last of park officials are situated - the area north of this point is only accessible through scheduled tours undertaken by the organisation that holds the concession rights. At present, this concession is held by Wilderness Safaris, who offer a complete fly-in package. The park is highly sensitive environmentally and strict measures are taken against trespasser.

The area south of Mowe Bay includes Terrace and Torra Bay, both of which are managed by Namibia Wildlife Resorts. Terrace Bay offers limited accommodation, while Torra Bay is a camping area that is mostly frequented during the holiday season in December, when it attracts many local angling enthusiasts. Basic services are available along the main coastal road including fuel. However, distances between locations are vast and caution must be taken not to travel without water and basic necessities such as warm clothing. The main road is acceptable for all types of vehicles until Terrace Bay, but this is a salt/gravel road and caution should be exercised. It is important that visitors to the area remain on main roads and refrain from off-road driving as this causes extreme environmental damage.

Along the southern part of the region, many private operators and lodgings operate and provide excellent packages for the traveller to experience the essence of the Skeleton Coast, with activities available ranging from angling and birding amongst others. Seal colonies are a great attraction and a worthwhile expedition to undertake.