The best months to visit Skeleton Coast are May – Oct. 15–25°C, dry, clear skies.
Quick facts
When to go
Shipwrecks in the fog, 200,000 seals on the shore, and desert elephants in the dunes, where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic in desolate, haunting beauty.
May – Oct is the busiest window in Skeleton Coast, so accommodation and flights go first. Book ahead. The shoulder weeks either side are usually quieter for the same reason.
Getting Around in Skeleton Coast
- A rental vehicle is essential, as there is no public transport along the Skeleton Coast. 4x4 recommended but not required for the main C34 salt road. Book from Windhoek for the best rates and widest selection
- The C34 coast road from Swakopmund to Terrace Bay is well-maintained salt/gravel. Reduce tyre pressure on sandy sections. Carry a tyre repair kit, pump, and extra fuel (jerry can). Fuel available in Swakopmund, Henties Bay, and Terrace Bay only
- Distances are vast. Swakopmund to Cape Cross is 120km, Cape Cross to Terrace Bay is 200km. Plan driving carefully around fuel stops and park gate closing times (3pm entry deadline)
For month-by-month detail, itineraries and costs, see the full Skeleton Coast travel guide.
Timezone: CAT (UTC+2) (No daylight saving)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Skeleton Coast?
The best months to visit Skeleton Coast are May – Oct (15–25°C, dry, clear skies), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Skeleton Coast budget breakdown.
