shipwreck lodge offers luxury accomodation on namibia's skeleton coast

historically, namibia’s skeleton coast — where the south atlantic ocean meets the african continent — has claimed a great number of ships, the rusted remains of which can still be seen today. however, in more recent times, the region has become a thriving tourist destination offering activities such as dune trekking and sunset drives beneath the clear night skies.

shipwreck lodge is nestled between the region’s sand dunes
image by denzel bezuidenhout (also main image)

located between the hoarusib and hoanib rivers in the skeleton coast national park, shipwreck lodge is a new destination that comprises ten chalets nestled between the dunes. offering ocean views, the cabins have been designed by architect nina maritz to mimic the shipwrecks common to the area. the structures were assembled on site from pre-manufactured panels to reduce the construction footprint in the sensitive desert environment.

the hotel comprises a series of ‘shipwreck-shaped’ chalets
image by shawn van eeden

each with their own deck, eight twin/double chalets are joined by two family cabins — all of which are fully equipped with luxury amenities. meanwhile, a restaurant and dining area is found at the heart of the lodge where guests can enjoy morning coffee or simply enjoy views of the starkly beautiful landscape. potential activities include day excursions to the nearby seal colony in möwe bay, dune exploration, or a beach lunch.

the cabins have been designed by architect nina maritz
image by shawn van eeden

prices per person per night start at N$ 8,685, (approximately $600 USD), with reservations able to be made online. shipwreck lodge is operated by journeys namibia, who also offer a host of other destinations and adventures throughout the country.

the dwellings offer ocean views
image by micheal turek