QPI Awards NambiRand Nature Reserve Africa’s First Wilderness Quiet Park Status
Quiet Parks International (QPI) proudly announces NamibRand Nature Reserve as Africa’s First Wilderness Quiet Park. This prestigious recognition, awarded on June 20, 2024, underscores NamibRand’s commitment to preserving its pristine natural environment and fostering a quiet sanctuary for humans, animals and birds alike.
Located in the captivating landscape of south-western Namibia, NamibRand Nature Reserve stands as a beacon of conservation, dedicated to safeguarding the unique ecology and wildlife of the south-west Namib Desert. Encompassing over 200,000 hectares, the reserve shares a border with the Namib-Naukluft National Park and the NamibSand Sea World Heritage Site, further enhancing its significance in protecting biodiversity and facilitating seasonal wildlife migration routes.
In addition to its ecological importance, NamibRand is celebrated for its exceptional darkness, making it an ideal location for stargazing and experiencing the natural soundscape. In May 2012, the International Dark Sky Association designated NamibRand as an International Dark Sky Reserve at the Gold Tier level, a testament to its remarkably dark skies and commitment to preserving natural nocturnal environments.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the reserve, NamibRand has implemented responsible tourism practices since 1994. Guided by a vision of minimal environmental impact, the reserve limits guest accommodations to one bed per 1000 hectares and restricts infrastructural development in designated wilderness areas.
Nils Odendaal, CEO of NamibRand Nature Reserve, expresses his gratitude for the award: “We are thrilled to be recognized as Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park. This accolade underscores our dedication to preserving the tranquility of NamibRand and promoting responsible tourism practices. We hope this designation will inspire others to appreciate and conserve our natural world.”
Matt Mikkelsen, Executive Director of Wilderness Quiet Parks, comments on the significance of the award: “This award reinforces NamibRand’s commitment to preserving its natural soundscape and wilderness character. By promoting awareness of natural sounds, NamibRand encourages reverence for its ecosystems and fosters a deeper connection to nature.”
Edward Alant, Field Recordist, shares his experience of the quiet at NamibRand and what this award means to him: “NamibRand - the land of red dunes and fairy circles. I was mesmerized by the peace and tranquillity of the ever-changing landscape during my time at NamibRand. The dunes are alive and moving - recording in the desert gives you an appreciation of the complex challenges faced by so many reserves across the African continent. When I listen to the recordings, I can relive the moments, walking through the deep sand, setting up my recorder in an Acacia tree, and taking a few minutes to listen...
“A Wilderness Quiet Park Award symbolizes the effort expended by the owners and management of NamibRand to preserve the integrity of the natural ecosystem. I was privileged to spend a few days with the NamibRand Team and highly recommend anyone considering NamibRand as a destination,” Edward concludes.
NamibRand Nature Reserve extends its appreciation to public servants and team members who have contributed to its conservation efforts, including CEO Nils Odendaal and the dedicated management team and board of directors.
For more information about NamibRand Nature Reserve and its conservation initiatives, please visit NamibRand Nature Reserve.
Photo credit: Edward Alant and Namibrand.org
Press Contact
Gordon Hempton, Executive Director of Media Affairs, gordon@quietparks.org, cell +1-360-477-9588, Skype ID quiet.planet1
NamibRand Nature Reserve: info@namibrand.org
Matt Mikkelsen, Executive Director of Wilderness Quiet Parks: matt@quietparks.org
Edward Alant, Field Recordist: edward.alant@gmail.com