Skeleton Coast Namibia: Henties Bay, Cape Cross, and the Zeila Shipwreck – Our Experiences
- Anna & Tom
- Dec 31, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 21
Our three-and-a-half weeks in Namibia were filled with unforgettable adventures, and exploring the Atlantic Coast was, of course, a must. Alongside Henties Bay and the famous Zeila shipwreck, our route also took us to Cape Cross, a place of historical significance and home to one of the largest seal colonies in the world. Here, we share our experiences, tips, and highlights for this part of our journey.
1. The Coastal Town of Henties Bay – Peace and Relaxation
Henties Bay is located north of Swakopmund and was our starting point for exploring the Skeleton Coast. This charming coastal town offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The climate here is noticeably cooler and quite windy, so make sure to pack some warmer clothing.
Henties Bay is a small vacation spot on the Atlantic coast with a few hotels and great restaurants. You absolutely must try the fresh fish here!
Our Time in Henties Bay
We stayed in a beachfront holiday apartment and enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the area.
Highlights in Henties Bay
Fishing: The region is a paradise for anglers. Local operators offer guided tours.
Cuisine: Be sure to try fresh fish at one of the cozy local restaurants.
Beach Walks: The miles of sandy beaches are perfect for leisurely strolls.
2. Cape Cross: Historical Significance and Wildlife Encounters
Cape Cross lies about 70 km north of Henties Bay and is both a historical and natural hotspot. Its name dates back to Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão, who landed here in 1486 and erected a stone cross to claim the land for Portugal. A monument now commemorates this historic landing.
The Journey from Henties Bay to Cape Cross
From Henties Bay, the C34 runs straight north towards Cape Cross. The well-maintained road follows the Atlantic coastline, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastal landscape along the way.
Depending on the weather, a mystical fog can settle over the road – a typical phenomenon along the Skeleton Coast. After about 70 kilometers, you reach the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, a protected area home to one of the largest seal colonies in the world.
There is an entrance fee to the park, but witnessing thousands of seals lounging on the beach is absolutely worth the experience.
The Seal Colony at Cape Cross
The true highlight of Cape Cross is the seals! This site is home to one of the largest Cape fur seal colonies in the world, with up to 200,000 animals during peak season.
As soon as we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by a strong smell—typical for such a large gathering of seals.
But the sight was mesmerizing: thousands of seals lounged on the beach or played in the waves. Watching the pups scurry around among the adults was particularly heartwarming.
A wooden boardwalk runs through the colony, allowing visitors to observe the animals up close without disturbing them.
Seeing the seals sunbathe or swim in the waves was an unforgettable experience—though the smell lingered in our noses for hours afterward! 😄
Tips for Cape Cross:
Best Time to Visit: Between November and December, when seal pups are born
Entry Fee: A small fee is charged for access to the colony and the monument
Photography: Bring a zoom lens to capture the animals from a distance
3. The Zeila Shipwreck – A Relic of the Skeleton Coast
On the way from Henties Bay to Cape Cross, you’ll come across the famous Zeila shipwreck, which rests just a few meters off the coast in the sand.
The Zeila ran aground in 2008 and has since become a popular photography spot. The rusted remains of the ship, battered by the relentless Atlantic waves, tell a story of the sea’s power and the dangers of the Skeleton Coast.
Tips:
Photography: Visit the wreck early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting
Safety: The wreck is not accessible, and the ocean currents in this area are extremely strong
Parking: There’s a parking area near the wreck. Keep an eye on your vehicle; while we had no issues, we’ve heard it’s wise to be cautious here
4. Swakopmund – Coastal Charm and German History
Swakopmund is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the unique blend of colonial history and African coastal flair. After the dusty drive through the Namib, the cool ocean breeze feels especially refreshing.
The town invites you to stroll through its historic buildings, visit charming cafés, or walk along the palm-lined promenade. For the night, we recommend the traditional Hansa Hotel, which offers a perfect retreat with its nostalgic charm and excellent service.
Find more information on that stop over here: Swakopmund in Namibia – The Most German Town on the Atlantic
5. Walvis Bay – Ocean Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
We spent two nights in Walvis Bay, and they were filled with unforgettable experiences. The city is famous for its lagoon, home to countless flamingos – a breathtaking sight, especially in the morning and evening hours.
A true highlight was our boat tour in the bay, where we got up close to dolphins, pelicans, and even seals. Some of the curious pelicans landed right on the boat, while dolphins gracefully leaped through the waves. The fresh ocean breeze, combined with a small oyster tasting on board, made the experience absolutely perfect. Since it can get quite chilly and windy on the boat, be sure to bring a jacket and a hat!
Another adventure took us to Sandwich Harbour, where the towering dunes of the Namib drop directly into the sea. To visit, you must book a guided desert tour, as driving there on your own is prohibited (and for good reason!).
In a 4x4, we navigated through the soft sand dunes – an exhilarating and sometimes dizzying experience. The contrast between the golden sand and the deep blue ocean is simply surreal. Standing atop a dune and gazing out over this otherworldly landscape was definitely one of the most magical moments of our trip.
Walvis Bay is a paradise for nature lovers and a must-see on any Namibia adventure!
6. Conclusion: A Unique Coastal Stretch Full of Highlights
Namibia’s Atlantic Coast captivated us with its raw, untouched beauty. From the relaxed vibes of Henties Bay to the fascinating Zeila shipwreck and the awe-inspiring seal colony at Cape Cross, this region offered an incredible variety of experiences.
If you’re visiting Namibia, make sure to set aside a day or two to explore this coastal stretch.
Practical Tips for the Coastal Region:
Accommodation: Lodges and campsites are available in Henties Bay and near Cape Cross. We recommend spending at least one night in Henties Bay
Weather: The coastal climate is cooler and windier than inland areas. Pack a warm jacket
Accommodation and Hotels in Henties Bay
Henties Bay is popular with tourists, so we recommend booking accommodations in advance. Here are some great options:
F3 at Silvermist: Modern and luxurious beachfront accommodation with stunning ocean views.
Die Strandwolf Sea View Self Catering: Guesthouse with a fully equipped kitchen and spectacular sea views, ideal for longer stays or families.
Beachfront 3 Bedroom House: Perfect for larger groups or families, this self-catering accommodation is located directly on the beach and comes with excellent facilities.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your Namibia trip, check out our other articles:
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