11 "Living Ghost Towns" Where History Buffs Can Spend the Night

8. Kolmanskop, Namibia: A Diamond in the Desert

Kolmanskop, Namibia, is a ghost town with a story as unique as its setting. Founded in the early 1900s during a diamond rush, Kolmanskop quickly became a wealthy settlement with luxurious amenities, including a casino, theater, and hospital. However, the town's fortunes declined as diamond supplies dwindled, and it was eventually abandoned to the encroaching desert sands. Today, visitors can explore the eerily beautiful ruins, where sand-filled rooms create a surreal and haunting atmosphere. Guided tours offer insights into the town's opulent past and the diamond industry's impact on the region. Overnight stays in nearby accommodations provide an opportunity to witness the stark beauty of the Namib Desert under a canopy of stars.