Unique Stay: Shipwreck Lodge
Tour Description
Shipwreck Lodge is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary set amidst the raw and rugged beauty of Namibia's Skeleton Coast National Park.
The Skeleton Coast is a place like no other on earth. Known as 'the Land God Made in Anger' by the San Bushmen, this region is defined by its haunting beauty. Towering dunes, mist-enshrouded coastlines, and a desolate interior make up this uninhabited desert. The landscape is dotted with the remains of over a thousand shipwrecks and bleached whale bones, creating a surreal atmosphere that is both magical and otherworldly.
Designed to resemble the shipwrecks scattered along the coast, this lodge offers an unforgettable experience in one of Africa’s most remote and mysterious landscapes. Located in the Skeleton Coast Central Concession Area, between the Hoarusib and Hoanib rivers, within the Skeleton Coast National Park, the lodge is about 45 kilometers from Mowe Bay, offering an unparalleled sense of solitude in this eerie and enchanting wilderness. The lodge is accessible via a scenic light aircraft flight from Windhoek, followed by a guided drive through the desert.
The lodge features ten uniquely designed rooms, including eight twin or double rooms and two family cabins, all constructed to resemble the shipwrecks that line the coast. Each room is solar-powered, with en-suite bathrooms and wood-burning stoves to keep you warm during the chilly desert nights. The main lodge area includes a creatively designed lounge and restaurant, offering uninterrupted views of the sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.
Activities: Shipwreck Lodge offers a variety of extraordinary activities that allow guests to explore the stark beauty of the Skeleton Coast.
-
Year-Round Activities: Embark on day excursions to the Mowe Bay seal colony, stopping at historic shipwrecks like the Suiderkus and Karimona, and visiting the remains of Westies Diamond Mine and the Ventura Bomber. Experience thrilling 4×4 drives along the Hoarusib River, exploring the geologically remarkable Clay Castles, and searching for desert-adapted wildlife like the elusive brown hyena. Enjoy sundowner drives to the roaring dunes, quad biking (available in the mornings for guests aged 16 and over), and sandboarding across the dunes.
-
Green Season (November – April): During these months, the mornings are less foggy, and this is an excellent time for birdwatchers to spot migratory species. The rain keeps the air clear and crisp, making it an ideal time to explore the region’s unique flora.
-
Dry Season (May – October): Experience the desert at its iconic best, with clear skies and cool temperatures. Although the mornings and evenings can be chilly, the days are perfect for exploring the Skeleton Coast’s dramatic landscapes.
This lodge offers a truly unique experience, combining the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast with the comfort of innovative, shipwreck-inspired accommodations. Whether you’re exploring the dry riverbeds, searching for rare desert-dwelling fauna, or simply soaking in the vast, untouched wilderness, Shipwreck Lodge provides an unmatched connection to this remote corner of Africa.
Top Tip: Shipwreck Lodge combines perfectly with a stay at Hoanib Valley Camp, offering a seamless transfer through the ever-changing and dramatic landscapes of Namibia. Speak with our Africa Specialists to incorporate this one-of-a-kind lodge into your Namibian adventure for an experience you’ll never forget.
Video Highlights
Viva's Best Bits...
While wildlife is elusive, spotting desert-adapted species like the brown hyena is a magical experience.
Situated in one of Africa’s most remote and mysterious regions, offering unparalleled solitude and tranquility.
From quad biking to guided nature walks, the lodge offers tailored activities that showcase the best of the Skeleton Coast.