The connection between Kaokoland and the Skeleton Coast is one of the most significant wildlife corridors in southern Africa: the same desert-adapted elephant and lion that use the Kaokoland river corridors also use the Skeleton Coast’s Hoarusib and Hoanib Rivers to reach the ocean.
By Vehicle (Southern Connection)
The southern Kaokoland connects to the Skeleton Coast through Purros and the lower Hoarusib River. This track (approximately 100km from the Marienfluss south-west to Purros on the Skeleton Coast) is difficult and requires specific local knowledge; it is used by experienced Kaokoland guides rather than independent travellers.
The more accessible connection is via the C34 coastal road: return south from Kaokoland to Opuwo, then drive the Skeleton Coast approach from Swakopmund northward. This is a longer route but the correct choice for most visitors.
By Aircraft (Northern Connection)
The most direct connection from the northern Kaokoland (Epupa area) to the Skeleton Coast northern wilderness is by light aircraft. Fly from the Epupa airstrip or from Opuwo to the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp or Skeleton Coast Camp airstrip. Flight time approximately 45 to 60 minutes; the aerial view of the transition from mountain to dune to coast is extraordinary.
This fly-in connection allows combining Kaokoland (Himba, desert elephant inland) with the Skeleton Coast wilderness (desert lion at the coast, seals, the ocean) in a single trip without backtracking.
Full Skeleton Coast guide: Skeleton Coast hub Contact Mat-Travel for combined Kaokoland and Skeleton Coast programme planning.