SKELETON COAST

The Skeleton Coast is one of the most unique coastlines in the world.

This harsh, uninhabitable stretch of land is lined with towering sand dunes and dramatic shores. The coastal tide is as harsh as the barren desert sands, as the South Atlantic Benguela current constantly batters the shoreline. Strong winds and riptides make navigating this coastline a treacherous endeavor. Its remote sands are littered with exposed remains of shipwrecks and tracks of scarce desert dwellers. Scavengers scour Cape fur seal colonies that make their home along the coast.

Winter months along the Skeleton Coast are comfortable, lasting from May to September. In May, temperatures begin to drop, and days are sunny and comfortable with temperatures reaching into the mid-70s, with cool and crisp nights and mornings. June and July are typically the coldest winter months when some nights dip into freezing temperatures. The cool Atlantic coastal air can be quite unpredictable, and when staying along the Skeleton Coast it’s always a good idea to have a jacket or two!

Typically by October, temperatures rise as the region transitions into summer. Average daytime temperatures are in the mid-80s, and December and January tend to be the warmest months. In the desert, rainfall patterns are never guaranteed, but you can expect some showers at this time. The rain does, however, keep the air clear and crisp.

The Skeleton Coast comprises two areas that you can explore, the inland mountains and valleys and the harsh Atlantic coastline. The inland valleys are home to impressive desert-adapted elephants, giraffes, lions, and antelopes, as well as an incredible array of birdlife. While this region may look to be devoid of life, it is actually teeming with life!

Along the coast, you can find massive colonies of Cape fur seals and opportunistic black-backed jackals and brown hyenas can be found. The birdlife along the coast is also impressive.