Skeleton Coast

Skeleton Coast is a coastal region in northwestern Namibia where the cold Benguela current meets the Namib Desert, creating dense fog banks and strong winds along the shore. The landscape shows a barren mix of sand, rock formations, and occasional river mouths that cut through the dunes and carry water only a few times each year.

Ships ran aground here since the 15th century, when Portuguese sailors tried to chart the African coast and encountered fog and dangerous currents. The sinking of the German cargo vessel Eduard Bohlen in 1909 marked one of the most recognized wrecks, now sitting far inland due to shifting dunes.

The name refers to the many sailors who lost their lives after washing ashore in this waterless environment, where survival proved nearly impossible. Local San and Himba people rarely ventured here, recognizing the danger of a place where ocean and desert meet with such force.

Most visitors reach the area through guided safaris or charter flights, as large sections remain difficult to access by road. Bring warm clothing, since fog and wind keep temperatures cool even during summer months.

Whale bones lie scattered among shipwrecks along the beach, evidence of the rich marine life that thrives despite the harsh conditions. Desert elephants wander along seasonal rivers and have learned to survive in this extreme environment with very little water.