Getting to the Skeleton Coast
The two sections of the Skeleton Coast require completely different access approaches.
Southern Section (Self-Drive)
From Swakopmund: C34 north; tar to Henties Bay (70km); good gravel to Terrace Bay (280km). 2WD throughout.
From Windhoek: Drive to Swakopmund first (360km on B2; 4 hours); then proceed north on C34.
From Damaraland (via Uis): D2303 west from Uis to the coast (approximately 150km on gravel); joins the C34 between Henties Bay and Cape Cross. This approach suits visitors connecting from the central Damaraland circuit.
Northern Wilderness (Fly-In)
From Windhoek (Eros Airport): The primary departure point for northern wilderness fly-in safaris. Flight time approximately 2.5 hours to Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp airstrip. Charter aircraft are arranged by the lodge operator.
From Swakopmund: Shorter flight (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours) to the northern camps. Some operators offer Swakopmund departure for guests who are basing on the coast.
Logistics: The lodge operator manages all flight logistics. Guests are responsible for reaching Windhoek or Swakopmund; the operator handles everything from there. Soft bags only (45 to 55 litres maximum per person).
NWR campsite bookings and vehicle hire through to NamibRand private lodge stays and guided dune photography programmes.
