Skeleton Coast National Park

Pros & Cons

• Interesting desert coastline environment
• Big seal colonies
• Off-the-beaten-track wilderness destination
• Excellent birding opportunities
• Very remote and inaccessible
• Low animal densities and little variety

Wildlife

The Skeleton Coast is not a prime wildlife destination. Most people visiting this area stop prior to reaching the national park at Cape Cross seal colony. Similar, less accessible colonies can be found inside the park, including a huge colony at Cape Fria further north. They attract scavengers like brown hyena and black-backed jackals. Other marine wildlife includes Heaviside's dolphin and green turtle.

• More about Skeleton Coast's wildlife

Scenery

The park protects a narrow strip of barren desert coast. The conflict of temperatures where the sea meets the desert creates a layer of almost permanent fog, which makes the scenery even more mysterious. The fog gives life to more than 100 different species of lichen, which reveal a mosaic of colors and shapes when looked at closely.

Weather & Climate

The Skeleton Coast is subject to a dry winter (May to October), with minimal rainfall. The winter months are also characterized by cool winds blowing in from the west, and heavy fog, particularly in the morning. Summer (November to April) sees a continuation of the fog, though it diminishes slightly. There’s also increasing rainfall and warmer temperatures.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time to Visit

The best time to head to the Skeleton Coast is when the climate is warmer, roughly from October to March. The fog is also not as heavy and the skies clear up after rain. You’re more likely to see wildlife at this time, as the chilly winds of the drier months tend to send animals scampering for cover.

• More about the best time to visit

Want to Visit Skeleton Coast NP?

• Skeleton Coast safaris and tours
• Tour operators for Skeleton Coast