The Bushmen called it The Land God Made in Anger and the Portuguese said it was The Gates of Hell. Sounds pretty harsh but when you consider an ocean so unforgiving it crushed ships against its hidden rocks and a desert so deadly it wore the bones of its victims, human and not, with pride. This is Namibia’s Skeleton Coast — a tragic yet breathtakingly beautiful place!

What is most interesting about the area is that from all the death and despair has emerged an abundance of life. Old wrecks provide excellent habitats for a thriving Cape fur seal colony and for the 247 species of birds in the area too. In fact, despite its barren appearance the Skeleton Coast boasts a wider variety of species than many water abundant parks throughout Africa.

The desert elephant, black rhino, cheetah, giraffe, gemsbok, zebra, springbok, spotted and brown hyena and lion can be found in the dry river beds which flow from the interior of Namibia, through the Namib Desert to the Skeleton Coast. Occasionally lions can even be seen combing the beach in search of marine creatures that have succumbed to the elements. And off the coast, Benguela dolphins, killer whales and humpbacks breach for your attention.

Although the entire coastline of Namibia was formerly called The Skeleton Coast, today it refers only to the Skeleton Coast National Park, which stretches from the Kunene River in the north for approximately 500km to the Ugab River in the south.

The mouth of the Kunene River is the breeding ground of the green turtle and is also home to the only Southern African population of Nile soft-shelled turtle. Here too you can come face to face with the large population of highly aggressive crocodile population.

Another diamond-in-the rough in this area is the gemstone beach, where semi-precious stones, polished and smoothed by the waves, shine brightly beneath the baking sun. Stones include red and maroon garnets, agate, quartzes, amethysts, magnetite, ilmenite and carnelians. But before you fill your pockets please note that it is illegal to remove anything from the park.

The Skeleton Coast landscape is diverse and includes the expected sand dunes, canyons and mountain ranges but, unexpectedly, its the climate that can throw a few surprises at you. Dense fog and cold sea breezes may have you running for luxurious duvets and red wine — both of which can be found at our favourite Beyond Our Border choice, Skeleton Coast Camp.

Built on an island in the dry Khumib riverbed, about 20km inland from the coastline, Skeleton Coast Camp is an exclusive resort only accessible by small plane.

It comprises six Meru-style tents with luxurious bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. The ‘main camp area’ is made up of an open-plan lounge, a bar and a dining room that offers sweeping views of the desert. Evening meals can also  be served in the open-air 'dining room' under the old, gnarled leadwood tree — weather permitting.

A popular activity in the area is walking. Many parts here prohibit the use of vehicles as they damage the environment and can only be reached by foot. Extended walks, with a picnic lunch, to see the lithops and welwitschia (specially-adapted plant species) is a popular option.

Other adventures include a visit to the clay castles of the Hoarusib River; Rocky Point; lichen fields and Himba villages.

Skeleton Coast Camp

Because the camp is only accessible by small plane, it is effectively one of the most remote places on earth. And because of this remoteness, you will never see a night sky that could ever match the ones you will see here.

Desert Elephants

Desert elephants are very well adapted to the harsh realities of desert life. Herds routinely travel great distances between the feeding grounds and the scattered waterholes where they are able to drink during the dry season.

Cape Fur Seal Colony

Cape Cross is a rocky coast where the first European, Diego Cao, landed in 1485. It is also home to more than 100 000 seals and although numbers vary seasonally, the site is occupied all year round.

4x4 drives

A top activity in this area is the 4x4 excursions. Here, guests are introduced to a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Although wildlife can be seen, it’s important to appreciate that the experience focuses on the freedom of the dunes and the beauty and solitude of the area.