The vast territory of the desert encompasses countless landscapes. On one end there is the astonishing Deadvlei, and the neighbouring Namib Rand reserve. On the other, the Kunene River, a sliver of life-giving water cutting through inhospitable desert. Skeleton Coast lies in between. It’s as arid and remote as other parts of the desert, but even this area holds a surprising number of well-adapted wildlife, including elephant, oryx and lion—and large parts of the coast are protected as a National Park. The brand new Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is tucked in the northern edge of the park.
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“Search the rust-coloured crags and arid plains for desert-adapted wildlife. Take a thrilling drive to the wild, windswept Skeleton Coast. Hike rocky outcrops, scramble down enormous sand dunes, marvel at desert oases, and dine under impossibly starry night skies. ”
— Wilderness Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp
Tucked in a private concession, the camp looks out over a waterhole and dry river bed, and to the desert’s rugged rock formations—a pristine and pure landscape of cinematic beauty.
The camp’s eight luxury tented suites are spacious and elegant, decorated with a simple contemporary eco-chic, harmonised with the landscape. They are movable, in line with the need of conserving the fragile eco-system.
Insulated walls and ceilings in bedroom and en-suite bathroom offset the desert extremes of temperature, the stylish Bedouin tent canopy stretching to shelter a private outdoor lounge with plenty of comfortable seating—perfect to relax and drink in the peaceful atmosphere… and perhaps to spot an elephant strolling along the river bed.
Sossusvlei & Deadvlei, Namibia
At the main lodge guests relax between activities in the comfortable bar and lounge, minimalist dining room and stylish swimming pool and deck. The professional and friendly staff work culinary wonders, including freshly baked breads and fresh produce, magically even providing gluten-free treats on request.
Delicious picnic lunches might be served in a green oasis during a game drive with the informative guides, sundowners on a scenic lookout observing desert-adapted lion. Staying for three nights allows for a full day expedition to the Skeleton Coast, a highlight for many, through a succession of landscapes including, dunes, the vlei with waterbirds, and then stark gravel coastal plain to the Mowe Bay seal colony.
After a picnic lunch the short return flight unveils the unique landscapes from the air. Already acknowledged as ‘Most Out of this World’ lodge in the 2015 Tatler Travel Awards, the wild adventure in a photographers dream setting, together with the legendary Wilderness hospitality, ensure a memorable experience of a lifetime.
Reaching Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is an adventure in itself, setting the tone for the wild beauty that awaits. The journey typically begins with a flight into Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, followed by a short domestic transfer to Doro Nawas airstrip. From there, a light aircraft whisks guests over sweeping desert landscapes to the camp’s private airstrip—a breathtaking aerial introduction to this remote region. On arrival, guides escort travelers by 4×4 across rugged terrain, where golden dunes, rocky valleys, and dry riverbeds hint at the dramatic Skeleton Coast beyond. The remoteness is part of the magic: every step of the way, the journey underscores the camp’s sense of exclusivity and its deep connection to Namibia’s raw wilderness.
Staying at a luxury desert camp near Marrakesh
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is more than a place to stay—it’s an immersion into one of the world’s last true wildernesses. Here, luxury meets remoteness, and every day unfolds against landscapes that feel almost otherworldly. Whether tracking desert-adapted wildlife, flying over shipwreck-strewn shores, or simply sitting in silence beneath a vast star-filled sky, the experience leaves an imprint that lingers long after departure.
Alternatively, book Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp via
Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Wilderness Safaris
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Author: Travel+Style. Last updated: 03/09/2025
