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).