The Forbidden Land and Shipwreck Tour

The Forbidden Land and Shipwreck Tour


Lüderitz to Walvis Bay – Exploring the Forbidden Land and Skeleton Coast Dunes.


This thrilling guided self-drive tour takes you through the restricted Sperrgebiet (former Diamond Area No. 2), now part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. You'll traverse untouched beaches, conquer massive shifting dunes, discover abandoned mining ghost towns, and visit iconic shipwrecks along one of the world's most remote and dramatic coastlines. Expect adrenaline-pumping 4x4 driving, breathtaking scenery where towering dunes plunge into the Atlantic, and glimpses of desert-adapted wildlife like oryx, springbok, and Black Back Jackal. Evenings are spent wild camping under star-filled skies, pure wilderness immersion! 


Note: This is a challenging 4x4 experience, but don’t let this discourage you, you are in good hands, with Jakkals and the team, we will help you to find your "sand feet" before you know it.  Routes may vary based on tides, sand conditions, and weather.


Day 1: Lüderitz to Gibraltar area

Depart Lüderitz early morning (exact time confirmed by your guide the evening before). After a hearty breakfast, head north through the Namib-Naukluft National Park toward Saddle Hill. The drive introduces varied landscapes: vast plains, rocky outcrops, and your first taste of "dune streets" preparing you for the exhilarating dune driving ahead.

We might see some desert wildlife on our way and marvel at the ever-changing scenery. 

Your guides will cater for your dinner while you enjoy sundowners as the sun sets over the dunes, followed by a memorable evening around the campfire sharing stories of the day's adventures.

Working our way inDay 2: Gibraltar to Spencer Bay area

After breakfast, depart for the historic mining site of Ophir (or similar early diamond claims), where you'll explore remnants of old mining equipment and learn about the diamond rush era sparked in 1908.

The route combines relaxing beach driving at low tide, thrilling dune sections, and a stop at “Spuit Gat”, a spectacular natural rock blowhole where waves crash dramatically through coastal rocks.

Continue to the well-preserved Otavi shipwreck (1945), Mercury Island viewpoints, and Spencer Bay where we will camp for the evening. a Classic for capturing reflection and atmospheric depth

Day 3: Challenging Dunes to Knoll Point / Easter Point

Today's drive ramps up the excitement with technically awkward and steep dunes as you head north. Pass the site of the United Trader shipwreck (detonated in the 1970s), navigate the notorious Devil's Workshop dune field, and aim for Knoll Point beach by early afternoon.

Explore a century old diamond mining site with fascinating relics. Routes depend on tides and dune conditions, flexibility and adrenaline guaranteed!

Pitch wild camp just south of Knoll Point or Easter Point.  The scenery here is jaw-dropping: endless dunes meeting the sea, perfect for sunset photos and reflection.Anchor Chane of the United Trader

Day 4: Easter Point to Fishersbrunn

Depart from the dramatic Easter Point area, tackling more technical dunes to Sylvia Hill. Rich in history, this spot features an old seal colony, penguin caves, and ancient Strand Loper (beachcomber) settlements dating back 800 years.

Then ascend the iconic Lange Wand (Tall Wall) – a 230m-high dune ridge offering panoramic views with St. Francis Bay on one side and roller-coaster dunes on the other. Thrilling descents follow as you head to Fishersbrunn for the night.

Set up camp and top up shower water here for your last few days, correct we will be able to get water for shower from an old well. Sundowners on the dunes

Day 5: Meob Bay to Conception Bay

Head to Meob Bay, where remnants of old row boats used for offloading ships still lie on the beach. Venture inland to explore haunting diamond mining ghost towns and step back into Namibia's diamond history.

Later, tackle soft barchan dunes (crescent-shaped beauties) en route to Conception Bay. Visit the famous Eduard Bohlen shipwreck (1909) eerily stranded hundreds of meters inland, surrounded by desert sands.Mining equipment

Day 6: Conception Bay to Sandwich Harbour & Walvis Bay

The grand finale! Drive through the spectacular Sandwich Harbour area, where massive dunes cascade directly into the Atlantic lagoon, one of Namibia's most photographed and awe-inspiring sights. Enjoy final thrilling "roaring" slip-face descents and panoramic views.Sandwich Harbour

We say goodbye to the dunes and drop onto the beach for our final drive to Walvis Bay. Say farewell to your guide around midday once he has delivered you safely in Walvis Bay.


Tour ends.

Tour Dates: 2026:1

  • 5 to 20 December

Tour Price: 2026:

Adults: N$15,900.00

Child Aged 13 to 16: N$7,200.00

Child Aged 6 to 12: N$6,000.00

Child Aged to 5: N$1,900.00

Foreign Passport / Non-SADC: N$16,950.00

Adults: N$15,950.00

Child Aged 13 to 16: N$7,200.00

Child Aged 6 to 12: N$6,000.00

Child Aged to 5: N$1,900.00


Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included in Your Adventure

  • Daily Meals: Breakfast and dinner provided each day (2 meals per day)
  • Expert Guidance: Professional guides with their own dedicated vehicles
  • Safety & Communication: Two-way radios equipped in all vehicles for seamless coordination
  • All Essential Fees: Park permits, concession fees, and communal charges covered

What's Not Included

  • Accommodation and dinner on the first evening in Lüderitz
  • Beverages (including bottled water) during meals
  • Accommodation on the final night in Swakopmund or Walvis Bay
  • Any upgrades to accommodation or modifications to the planned itinerary
  • Camping equipment (we recommend bringing your own or arranging rental in advance)

Important Information

  • Pricing Note: Tour costs are calculated based on current government taxes and regulations. In the event of changes, we reserve the right to adjust prices accordingly.
  • Insurance Requirement: All participants must have comprehensive travel and medical insurance that covers adventure activities in Namibia.

Ready to explore Namibia's stunning landscapes? Book Your Tour Now.

Download your booking form here: Booking Form - NEW.xlsx


What Clients Need to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and safe self-sufficient 4x4 adventure, please prepare the following items. We operate in remote areas, so being fully equipped is essential.

Personal Camping Gear

  • Your own camping equipment: tent, sleeping bag (bedroll), ground sheet, chairs, and any other items for comfort.
  • Personal cutlery, crockery, and cooking utensils.
  • Personal items: medication, sunscreen, flashlight/headlamp, camera, batteries, and toiletries.

Food & Beverages

  • All beverages, snacks, and lunches for the duration of the tour.
  • Drinking water for personal use.
  • Minimum 60L of water for showering/washing.
  • 20L of clean, potable water dedicated to cooking for the kitchen.

Firewood & Waste

  • Two large bags of firewood per vehicle (more may be required depending on the tour – we will advise in advance).
  • Strong, heavy-duty garbage bags (garden-grade recommended). Clients are responsible for carrying out all their own waste.

Vehicle & Water Recommendations

  • If your vehicle has an onboard water tank, we recommend bringing an additional 20L jerry can for easier refills from local sources.

Your 4x4 Vehicle

  • Ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound and fully serviced before departure.
  • Carry a tyre pump and pressure gauge.
  • At least one spare tyre.
  • Recovery points/hooks fitted front and rear.
  • You need to carry enough fuel for 650km of sand driving. 

Insurance Note: Please confirm with your insurance provider that your vehicle is covered for off-road travel in Namibia (or the relevant country). In the event of a breakdown, we will assist with on-site recovery at an additional cost.

Important: Insurance & Emergency Cover

  • Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage are compulsory. Clients must arrange their own comprehensive policies.

Emergency Contact

  • Satellite Phone (for emergencies only): +881 6 315 73962. This number allows family members to reach you when out of cellular range. It is not for general use.
    • If you need constant connectivity, please bring your own satellite phone.

We look forward to an unforgettable adventure – pack well and travel safely! 🚙🏜️

See you soon

Jakkals