Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has confirmed that only concession shuttle vehicles and certain lodge-based guides will be permitted to transport visitors along the final 4×4 stretch to Deadvlei from May 1, tightening access beyond what many operators expected following last year’s postponement.
From May 1, self-drive vehicles will no longer be permitted beyond the 2×4 parking area. Access will be limited to shuttle vehicles operated by Grow Namibia (trading as About Africa Co), the concessionaire appointed under the Sossusvlei access management tender, and lodge-employed tour guides operating in and around the Namib-Naukluft Park who are also registered with the Namibia Tourism Board (NBT).
The restriction applies to international tourists and Namibian residents.
Concerns
“The industry is up in arms about the inconsistency of the government’s communication,” said Ally Karaerua, Chair of the Federation of Namibian Tourism Associations.
The association has written to the minister requesting a meeting to discuss the matter but says it has not yet received a response. Karaerua warned that the decision could leave operators out of pocket as they will have to absorb additional costs that cannot be passed onto travellers.
There is also uncertainty about lodge vehicles qualifying for access, Karaerua added. “They are saying that only NTB-registered vehicles of nearby lodges are allowed to drive their guests but it’s unclear what qualifies as a surrounding lodge.”
The new rules are expected to reduce visitors’ freedom to drive and conduct activities at their own pace, according to Karaerua. He raised concerns that the change could create a monopoly and, as a private supplier, the transfer company may have free rein to increase its fees.
Implementation
Heiko Dörgeloh, CEO of About Africa Co, said the current framework is being implemented as it was originally stipulated by the ministry’s public procurement process.
He argued that it is not a blanket prohibition but rather a regulated concession model. “The real issue is not whether access is regulated but whether the system is run efficiently, fairly and at the right standard.”
Dörgeloh acknowledged concerns about impact on visitor numbers. “It is only one side of the equation. The other side is that a regulated access model can improve order, reduce uncontrolled vehicle movement in a sensitive off-road area and create a more managed visitor experience if implemented properly.”
The concession was not designed as a private revenue stream but, instead, pricing is linked to turnover and community benefit, he added. “The more useful question is whether the system improves the site, visitor management and the intended community benefit in a measurable way. What can also not be ignored is the intended rehabilitation of the area and structured development that will improve the area.”
Dörgeloh said he has personally advocated for an exception to include NTB-registered tour operators but the ministry ultimately opted to implement the concession according to the original 2023 request for proposal framework.
