Skeleton Coast
Namibia
The C34 salt-and-gravel coastal road from Swakopmund north along Namibia's Atlantic fringe to Terrace Bay, through the Skeleton Coast National Park, past bleached whale bones, shipwrecks, and Cape Cross Seal Reserve's 100,000-strong fur seal colony. Ultra-desolate. Motorbikes not permitted on the coast road.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Swakopmund
German colonial town where the Namib meets Atlantic fog. Wilhelmine architecture, sand streets, and fresh seafood mark the last outpost before the wild coast.
- Hentiesbaai
Small angling town on the Omaruru River mouth, a fuel and supply stop before the road turns truly remote. Anglers camp here for kabeljou and steenbras.
- Cape Cross Seal Reserve
World's largest Cape fur seal colony with up to 100,000 animals on one beach. Diego Cao planted sub-Saharan Africa's first European stone cross here in 1486.
- Ugabmund Gate
Entry gate to Skeleton Coast National Park. Beyond here the route is remote and self-sufficient travel is essential; shipwrecks are signposted along the shore.
- Torra Bay
Seasonal fishing camp open only in December and January, when Namibian families make the pilgrimage. Outside season it is a ghost camp of wind and empty sites.
- Terrace Bay
End of the road at the northern park boundary. A fog-shrouded fishing camp and the last point reachable by car before protected wilderness takes over entirely.
Where to Eat
- The Tug RestaurantSeafood
A unique dining experience aboard a restored tugboat, offering fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views.
- Fishy CornerSeafood
A popular spot in Hentiesbaai known for its fresh fish and chips, offering a casual dining atmosphere.
- Cape Cross Lodge RestaurantInternational
Overlooking the Atlantic, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including local seafood specialties.
- Terrace Bay Resort RestaurantLocal
The only dining option in Terrace Bay, serving hearty meals to travelers exploring the Skeleton Coast.
Things to Do
- Swakopmund MuseumMuseum
Explore Namibia's history and culture through diverse exhibits in the country's largest privately run museum.
- Seal Colony at Cape CrossWildlife Viewing
Witness one of the world's largest Cape fur seal colonies, with thousands of seals basking on the shore.
- Shipwreck of the South West SealHistoric Site
Visit the remains of the 'South West Seal' shipwreck, stranded in 1976, now a haunting coastal landmark.
- Fishing at Terrace BayRecreational Activity
Engage in surf fishing along the Skeleton Coast, renowned for its abundant fish species and rugged beauty.
Travel advisory
A permit is required to enter Skeleton Coast National Park and must be obtained at the gate or in Swakopmund before proceeding north. The C34 is a corrugated salt-and-gravel road best handled by a high-clearance vehicle. Fuel up thoroughly in Swakopmund as no reliable supplies exist between there and Terrace Bay.