Skeleton coast 8 Day Expedition

Day 1

Leaving Swakopmund early morning we head north towards the entrance of the Skeleton Coast National Park. A quick stop at Uniab river mouth will give us the opportunity to spot some of the many bird species to be found in the park. After lunch we continue north passing through the Hoanib river until we reach Terrace Bay, which will be our last fuel stop for the next week or so. We overnight in the area north of Mowe Bay where we will experience the first hint of the mysteries and dramas that will be told and seen over the next few days.

Day 2

After breakfast we continue north. Many interesting stops will be made along the way, especially at the engine and remains of the Ventura Bomber that crashed after a failed rescue attempt in 1942. Entering the Hoarusib river we might come across herds of Oryx and Springbok. This river is also famous for Desert Adapted Elephants, Brown Hyenas and the very rare Desert Lions. After exploring the Hoarusib river we continue towards Khumib River and Sarusas Spring. We overnight close to Sarusas Spring.

Day 3

Leaving the beautiful Khumib Valley we continue north. Today’s drive will take us through the most colourful landscapes in the park. The area is extremely sensitive, and we take well care of not leaving footprints behind. We stop at the Sarusa mine which is no longer operational, however one can still see many quarts and amethyst crystals scattered everywhere. Not far from here we stop at Sarusa spring, which is an important water point for Oryx, Springbok, Brown Hyena, Ostrich and at times even Lion. After stopping at Agate Mountain, we set up camp for the night.

Day 4

Today is mostly beach driving. We pass Angra Fria; destined to become a harbour during the 1960’s they decided that the area was just too uninhabitable. Further north we reach the remains of the Dunedin Star and one of the shelters that the survivors erected to safeguard them from the harsh elements. Not much of the wreckage is visible but listening to the rescue mission will make one understand why this is called the “Skeleton Coast''. We reach the Kunene mouth around lunch. The Kunene originates in the Angola Highlands and paths her way through desert and mountains where it forms a delta in the Atlantic Ocean. The river hosts plenty of freshwater fish, Nile Crocodiles, Green Turtles and Soft-Shell Turtles. After Exploring the mouth, we head to our camp situated in the dunes close to Bosluisbaai.

Day 5

This is our day of leisure, no need to pack up as we will be staying at the camp for another night! After a late breakfast we explore the area around the Kunene Mouth. Hiking, photography, birding or dune driving, you choose how you want to spend the day. And don’t forget, just relaxing in the comforts of the camp is perfectly ok. Just before sunset we head to a magical sundowner spot for a once in a lifetime sunset view…

Day 6

Today is our last day in the park. We continue east. The day is mostly spent manoeuvring our way through spectacular desert scenery. There will be plenty of stops as the guides read the changing dunes and what lies behind them. Herds of Oryx are a common sight in the dunes as they make their way down to the river. We settle for the night close to the Hartmann Valley.

Day 7

Staying off the beaten track we head south to the Hoarusib River. Once again, we enter the territory of the Desert Elephants, lions, cheetah, leopard and Hyena. Passing Hoarusib Canyon we reach the small town of Puros where we will overnight at the community campsite. (Enquire about an upgrade to the Bush Lodge).

Day 8

We accompany our guests to Sesfontein where they will be able to refuel their vehicles, and also stock up on some basic items at the local market.

Price includes:

Professional tour leader

Guide vehicle(s), recovery gear, medical aid kits, satellite phone communication

Communal camp equipment (kitchen, field toilet & shower, etc)

2 meals per day (breakfast & dinner)

2-way radio sets

All Park & Concessions fees

Community fees and development fund contributions.

Vehicle, equipment & other requirements:

4x4 vehicle

· You must be able to cover ±1,000kms from Terrace Bay to Palmwag as Sesfontein don’t always have fuel.

· Diesel Vehicles: ±220 l / Petrol vehicles: ±280l

· Low range is required for most vehicle types (please discuss with us if you do not have low range)

· Vehicles must be mechanically sound and MUST have recovery points at the front and back of the vehicle. A tow hitch is not

a recovery point.

· Tyre pressure gauge, pump and tyre repair kit.

· Ensure that you have the correct wheel spanner and also a working jack.

· A 2^nd spare tyre is a must, particulalry if you have an odd tyre size.

Water & Firewood

· Every vehicle must carry 20 litres for communal use in the kitchen.

· In additional you need to carry your own shower / washing water of ±40l. You will be able to refill your shower water at the Kunene Mouth.

· Every vehicle must bring 2 bags of firewood (20kg+ bags – can be bought locally at most garages or along the road)

Camping equipment

· Tents should be waterproof due to the fog close to the coastline.

· Rooftop tents are also allowed.

· Cutlery, camp chairs etc.

· Torch, spare batteries

· The climate next to the coastline can be very cold, even in summer. Please ensure you have a decent warm jacket, scarf and/or warm hat.

· Please bring your own garbage bags (the strong green one for the garden works the best!) as you are responsible for your vehicle’s garbage until we reach Sesfontein.

Food & Beverages (other than stated)

· You are responsible for your own lunches, snacks, and drinks.

Items of a personal nature

· Medicine

· Camera, binoculars, etc

Comprehensive Travel and Medical Insurance

· Please inform your insurance provider in writing that you will be travelling to Namibia in order to ensrue that you are covered for international medical emergencies.

Fishing at Bosluis Bay

We offer fishing as an activity during our stay at our camp at Bosluis bay. Major species to be found are Dusky cob, Steenbras, Spotted grunter and a vast range of sharks. In order to fish you MUST obtain a fishing permit from the Ministry of Fisheries (in Swakop or Henties or speak to your guide for assistance). The permit costs NAD14 per person, valid for a month. Fishing is on a catch and release basis, and fish MUST be handled with the utmost care. Only circle hooks are allowed – this is not negotiable. Any tackle shop will be able to guide you on what is needed. Best bait to use – octopus or tjokka.

For more information or to book, please contact us at skeletoncoast@wild-exp.com.