Namibia's Skeleton Coast: Dem Bones, Dem Bones, Gonna Walk Around...

If You Go: Namibia

Flying in

Skeleton Coast Camp: Wilderness Safaris, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, runs the camp on the Skeleton Coast, located on the Khumib River within the private concession area of the Skeleton Coast Park.

Accommodations: The camp accommodates 12 guests plus a tour leader in a total of six tents. Tents have doors and wooden floors, en-suite bathrooms with shower, washbasin, toilet and overhead, solar-powered fan. There is a central lounge, bar and dining area with views of the desert.

Meals: Three a day are provided and are generally taken under an old, gnarled leadwood tree which offers shelter from the elements.

Wildlife Watching: While the area is renowned for its physical beauty and not for its game-viewing, the stark contrast between the harsh environment and the animals that inhabit it can make for spectacular viewing when animals are around. Possible wildlife one can see include: oryx, springbok, giraffe, ostrich, cape fur seals, brown hyena, jackals, cape fox, bat-eared fox, honey badger and genet. If you are really fortunate, cheetah and/or desert elephant will make appearances. Birders will find many of the Namibian endemic species occurring in the area, while flora enthusiasts will find fascinating species of desert plants.

Electricity and Water: Water is scarce and visitors are asked to conserve where possible. Solar energy powers lighting and heats the water. A 12-volt battery (charged by solar power) is used for lighting in each guest tent. If you use batteries for any equipment, bring plenty of spares.

Reservations: For detailed information and reservations, click on: www.skeleton-coast.com; or The Africa Adventure Company, www.africa-adventure.com.

Getting There: South African Airways provides daily nonstop service from gateways around the world. For information and reservations in the U.S.: Tel.: 800-722-9675 or click: www.flysaa.com. The website also provides contact numbers for offices around the world.