A strikingly different experience to the dune bashing drives that explore the sandiest stretches of the Skeleton Coast in exhilarating fashion, nature drives are more relaxing affairs that focus on the unique flora and fauna. There is a surprising diversity of wildlife that can cling to life in the harsh, arid conditions of this desert eco-system, with minimal food and water available during the dry season.

Drives on a Skeleton Coast Safaris itinerary include searches for desert elephant and giraffe in the Huab and Hoarusib River Valleys. Further north in the Hartmann Valley, there are mountain zebra, ostrich and oryx to be found, and these will also be on the agenda during a drive from the permanent Serra Cafema camp. You may even get lucky and happen upon a true rarity such as a brown hyena or desert lions. Along the way, there will be numerous stops to explore the smaller details which you might otherwise miss, from birds and reptiles to distinctive desert vegetation. There is certainly not the volume of animals you will find in Etosha, but the rugged, unspoiled scenery is absolutely breathtaking, meaning these drives are about far more than the wildlife.