Overview
Wildlife and shipwrecks on the Skeleton Coast
Set in a beautiful valley along a dry riverbed in a remote part of the Kaokoveld desert accessible only by light aircraft, Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is sits between the Skeleton Coast National Park and Palmwag Concession's pristine wilderness.
Amid this starkly beautiful setting find a surprising level of luxury and style in your contemporary tented suites. Relax in the main area as you enjoy panoramic views of the riverbed, or retreat to the refreshing pool in the long hot desert afternoon between safari activities.
A joint venture between the neighbouring conservancies of Anabeb, Torra and Sesfontein, Hoanib Skeleton Coast hosts researchers working on the important task of protecting desert-adapted lions, brown hyenas, elephants and other species which eke out a living in this dramatic desert.
Facts
At a glance
-
Eight large tented villas, one family suite
-
Swimming pool
-
Library
-
Bar and restaurant
Experiences
-
Skeleton Coast excursion
If you’re staying for three or more nights, go on a guided visit to the Skeleton Coast and the dunes. This 4x4 trip to the coast will take you through the wilderness if the Hoanib River and floodplain, dune fields and Klein Oasis. While at the coast you’ll see the fur seal colonies and shipwreck remains. Depending in the weather, you may be able to fly back to camp.
-
Research centre visit
Take time out to visit the research centre and meet some of the scientists who work there. Learn more about the important projects they are running in the area.
-
Riverbed and floodplains drive
Go on a guided drive across the riverbed and floodplains as you discover more about this fascinating landscape and the plants and animals that thrive here. This is also a great opportunity for you to spot desert-adapted wildlife. Morning and afternoon drives are possible, as well as full-day excursions.
-
Desert oases
Explore the desert oases that offer respite from the dry desert and perhaps even see wildlife coming to drink. Birdlife in these areas is also rich and plentiful. The full-day trips are taken on semi-enclosed game drive vehicles, and you’ll stop for a picnic along the way.
-
Other activities
Head out on walking trails for a great way to experience the area close up. You can also enjoy star gazing and astronomy evenings, or an Olympus Photo Hub experience at the camp.
Community & Culture
The camp is part of a joint venture partnership with the neighbouring communities, so that ecotourism is able to benefit the people of the area.
Conservation
Hoanib supports a unique population of desert-adapted lions. The animals are a prominent feature in Namibia and are extremely valued by the blossoming tourism industry. One of the main challenges the project focuses on is reducing conflict between the locals and lions
Footprint
Built in one of the most fragile ecosystems in the world, the camp has been designed with minimal environmental impact at the forefront. The camp is 100% solar powered, and each tent is fitted with a solar geyser. The tents and main area have been designed to make the most of natural light, air flow and insulation. Onsite reverse osmosis filtration has helped them to reduce bottled water usage, and only approved eco-friendly detergents and chemicals are used. Wastewater is recycled for use on plants.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.