Skeleton Coast National Park

Wildlife & Animals

Expert

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Skeleton Coast National Park is home to a variety of marine wildlife. Cape fur seals are abundant. The most accessible colony of seals is at Cape Cross, outside the park to the south. Up to 100,000 animals can be seen here at any time. Wooden boardwalks make for easy viewing and vantage points. Be prepared for an overpowering stench and high noise levels.

ElephantVery Rare

GiraffeNone

HippoNone

BuffaloNone

ZebraRare

WildebeestNone

White RhinoNone

Black RhinoVery Rare

LionVery Rare

LeopardVery Rare

CheetahNone

HyenaOccasional

Wild DogNone

Wildlife Highlights

It is not uncommon to see the usually very shy, but handsome, brown hyena, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Watch offshore for the rare Heaviside’s dolphins. The mouth of the Uniab River attracts some wildlife coming in from farther inland. This includes gemsbok, springbok and greater kudu. Desert-adapted lions inhabit the park, but they’re extremely difficult to see.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The Skeleton Coast can be visited year-round, as the seal colonies are always present. Other wildlife is hit-and-miss throughout the year. April and May are the least favorable months, since it tends to be very foggy with cold winds and animals usually take cover. November to April is the summer season, when migratory birds are present.