You Can Glamp in a Shipwreck on Namibia’s Skeleton Coast

Some vacations are made for sipping mai tais on a beach. A visit to Namibia’s desolate Skeleton Coast—described by the local San Bushmen as “the land God made in anger”—is definitely not one of those.

But this remote stretch of desert coastline is a bucket list visit for adventurers, with jaw-dropping scenery (300-foot dunes that crash down into the Atlantic) and remnants of its seafaring history (from shipwrecks to whale bones) splayed out along its sandy shoreline.

It’s those centuries-old wrecks that served as the inspiration for a brand-new 10-room luxury retreat perched at the top of the dunes in Skeleton Coast National Park. Dubbed Shipwreck Lodge, the 10 individual cabins are designed with ship-inspired details, from the hull-like exteriors to the porthole windows. Inside, each solar-powered cabin is luxuriously outfitted with en suite baths, wood-burning stoves, plush blankets and pillows, WiFi, and electricity.

In the center of the camp, a common lounge area and restaurant—where all-inclusive meals are served—is decorated in an equally cozy fashion with a large deck area showcasing views out to the sea.

Related: The Top 10 Exotic Beach Destinations:

Despite the seclusion of the Shipwreck Lodge, there’s plenty to do in this picturesque setting outside your vessel. Owned by Natural Selection—a luxury safari camp operator—the hotel offers guided game drives around the national park, as well as excursions to local landmarks, seal colonies, and shipwrecks. You’re also free to trek down the dunes to the beach to hunt for your own washed-up treasures or try your hand at surf fishing.

Anyone else up for an adventure? See more of this wreck-inspired stay below: