Namibia: new visa requirements for non-reciprocating countries

Namibia will officially enforce its visa requirement for non-reciprocating countries from April 1, 2025, while also increasing the cost of visa fees for travellers from non-African Union (AU) Member States.

In May, Namibia’s Cabinet controversially approved the introduction of a visa requirement for 31 previously visa-exempt countries, including top tourism source markets such as Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the UK and the US. Travellers from the affected countries will now be required to apply for a visa on arrival.

The implementation modalities were announced by Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) on social media on Saturday, June 29.

“Countries that have not reciprocated Namibia’s gesture of visa exemption will qualify for a visa on arrival and online application effective April 1, 2025,” the Ministry posted.

Industry concerns

A number of industry leaders have spoken out about this new visa requirement. This includes the SADC Business Council Tourism  Alliance that says it could severely hamper the country's tourism industry and economic growth.

According to a recent statement by the Council Alliance, this policy shift appears to contradict Namibia Airports Company’s recently launched air access strategy, “Air Connect Namibia”, aimed at increasing international flights and connectivity.

“A restrictive visa regime can negatively impact the entire tourism value chain,” says Natalia Rosa, Project Lead for the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance. “It hinders not only leisure travel but also business travel, conferences, events, education, and trade, thereby limiting overall economic growth and development,” she added.

Instead of tightening visa restrictions, said Rosa, Namibia could explore alternative solutions such as implementing more efficient visa processing systems (e.g. e-visas), targeted visa waivers for specific groups, or enhanced security measures at borders.

Gitta Paetzold, CEO of the Hospitality Association of Namibia (HAN), agreed, telling Tourism Update in response to the news last month that the decision flies in the face of significant strides made by the private sector and government to present Namibia as open, easily-accessible and welcoming to travellers and investors.

“For a number of years now, the Namibian tourism private sector and the MHAISS have collaborated in a concerted program to enhance Namibia’s attractiveness to both tourists and potential investors, easing Namibia's visa regime, introducing visas on arrival for some countries and adding to the list of visa-exempt countries,” said Paetzold.

Which countries are affected?

Effective from the same date, all travellers from non-AU countries will need to pay a N$1 600 (€82) visa fee.

The list of countries affected by the change is as follows:

Armenia

Austria

Azerbajian

Belarus

Belgium

Canada

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Iceland

Ireland

Italy

Japan

Kazakhstan

Kyrgyzstan

Liechtenstein

Luxembourg

Moldova

Netherlands

Norway

Portugal

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Tajikistan

Turkmenistan

Ukraine

United Kingdom

United States of America

Uzbekistan

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Namibia: Caprivi Mutoya Lodge has had an upgrade - Spa & Conference

Caprivi Mutoya Lodge - Spa & Conference

News

Caprivi Mutoya Lodge has had an upgrade!

We couldn't wait any longer to share some amazing news with our esteemed clients. We are thrilled to announce that we have upgraded all of our luxury tents to ensure that every room has the same top-notch facilities. This includes the addition of air conditioners, which will provide our guests with ultimate comfort and relaxation during their stay.

In addition, we have also improved our internet and Wi-Fi services throughout the entire property, including the bar and deck areas. This means that our guests will have access to faster and more reliable internet, making their stay even more enjoyable. For those looking to use our conference facilities, the Wi-Fi will no longer be a concern.

Spa & Conferences

As well as our unique workshop/conference pavilion, Caprivi Mutoya Lodge has added a brand new spa (opening June 2024). These hidden gems in the heart of nature are surrounded by ancient indigenous trees, making these venues a peaceful and inspiring location. Located just a short 20-minute drive from Katima Mulilo, guests can easily access the lodge for their spa treatments, meetings, workshops, or social events.

The pavilion can accommodate up to 30 people and is equipped with air-conditioners and fans to combat the scorching African summers. With open-air windows and canvas blinds, guests can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while staying cool.

Delicious meals and snacks are provided at the main lodge's bar and restaurant deck, which is just a short walk from the spa and the conference pavilion. And to top it off, guests can end their day with a relaxing sunset cruise on a pontoon boat, where they can spot crocodiles and hippos in their natural habitat.

Our added facilities truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Birding in the Zambezi Region of Namibia

Birding in the Zambezi Region is an unforgettable experience that should be on every birdwatcher's bucket list. With an impressive list of up to 450 different species, this small part of Namibia is a must-visit for any birding enthusiast. The best time to spot some of the region's unique birds is during a sunset boat cruise, where you can witness the majestic African Fish Eagle in action, along with other rare species such as the African Hobby and Bat Hawk. As a new activity, we offer birding trips into the floodplains in our recently revamped game viewer.

The lodge is also home to the beautiful Schalow's Turaco, which can often be seen and heard in the surrounding trees. For photographers, a mere 15 km away lies the largest Carmine Bee-Eater colony in Southern Africa, which attracts visitors from all over the world during the breeding season. From the end of August until the beginning of November, you can witness these stunning birds in all their glory, making birding in the Zambezi Region an absolute treat that cannot be missed.

Village Walking Tours

Guests can embark on an enriching journey to Libula Village, mere steps from our lodge. They can immerse themselves in the vibrant local community, engaging with residents and experiencing authentic African traditions firsthand. Contribute to the well-being of the villagers as you participate in cultural exchanges and gain insights into their way of life. Discover the warmth and hospitality of rural Africa on our unforgettable village tours.

D3508 Luhonono Road, Katima Mulilo, Zambezi Region 9000, Namibia

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Namibia: O&L Leisure commences renovations at Midgard Lodge

O&L LEISURE COMMENCES UPGRADES AND RENOVATIONS AT MIDGARD

Namibia is experiencing a transformative shift towards becoming a premier destination, and O&L Leisure is at the forefront of this evolution. With a steadfast commitment to authenticity, care, and passion, O&L Leisure proudly announces the commencement of upgrades and renovations to 25 rooms at Midgard Lodge, a cherished retreat nestled in the heart of Namibia’s captivating landscapes.

As Namibia transitions into a premium destination, O&L Leisure is aligning its positioning and overall offering to meet the requirements of this new luxury market. Sven Thieme, O&L Group Executive Chairman and Managing Director of O&L Leisure: “Our dedication to this new premium positioning is evident in our investment into the sustainable upgrading and expansion of our properties, including the beloved Midgard. These enhancements not only elevate our overall offerings and guest experiences but also ensure that we continue to provide exceptional nature-based experiences.”

The upgrades and renovations at Midgard are a testament to its steadfast commitment to providing guests with unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Namibia’s natural beauty and cultural richness. From modern amenities to thoughtful design elements that reflect the spirit of the land, every detail has been carefully considered to create an ambiance of luxury and comfort.

“Beyond enhancing guest experiences, our investment in Midgard underscores our commitment to fostering positive impacts on local communities and the Namibian economy. By attracting international tourism and business to Namibia, we anticipate substantial positive impacts on the local upscaling of our workforce. This aligns perfectly with our authentic care for the communities we operate in, ensuring that our growth benefits all.

We are thrilled to embark on this journey of transformation at Midgard. These upgrades and renovations not only reinforce our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences but also signify our dedication to contributing to the growth and prosperity of Namibia as a premium destination”, concluded Maryke van Lill, O&L Leisure Marketing Manager.

The upgrade and renovations period is scheduled from the 2nd of April to the 24th of August 2024.

About O&L Leisure:

O&L Leisure, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, is a leading hospitality company in Namibia, renowned for its portfolio of premium properties that offer unparalleled experiences in stunning natural settings. With a commitment to authenticity, care, and passion, O&L Leisure provides guests with unforgettable moments that capture the essence of Namibia’s beauty and hospitality.

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Namibia: Border Updates 2024

BORDER UPDATES

The Namibian Government has recently given approval to grant visas on arrival to nationals from select countries across the world.

The visa-on-arrival program has been formally inaugurated at the Katima Mulilo, Ngoma and Impalila Island border posts.

The countries eligible for visas on arrival include:

African nations: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic (CAR), Chad, Comoros, Cote d’ Ivore, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Mauritania, Niger, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principé, Sierra Leone, Togo, Tunisia, Western Sahara Republic and Uganda.

Additionally:

Belarus, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile, Czech Republic, Hungary, Mexico, Moldova, Nicaragua, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, South Korea, Venezuela, Vietnam, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Ukraine.

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Grow Namibia launches online tickets

Grow Namibia launches online tickets

The Grow Namibia Foundation, a trailblazing initiative dedicated to conservation, sustainability, and community empowerment, announced the launch of a groundbreaking ticketing and permit booking system. This innovative platform, a first-of-its-kind in the country, is set to transform the way tourists experience the country’s iconic destinations, starting with Etosha and Sossusvlei national parks’ permits.

According to the foundation, the tickets and permits booking system represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of responsible and sustainable tourism practices. It said by providing tourists with the opportunity to book park permits or tickets in advance, the aim is to enhance smooth visitor experiences, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to the preservation of Namibia’s pristine treasures, and provide support to the national authorities, such as Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Heritage Council or museums association.

“Our goal is to offer tourists a seamless and convenient way to explore Namibia’s stunning national treasures while upholding our commitment to conservation and community empowerment,” said Heiko Dörgeloh, founder of The Grow Namibia Foundation.

“Through this pioneering system, we aim to strike a harmonious balance between promoting tourism, protecting our natural heritage, providing a convenience service to travellers, operators or agents, and fostering economic opportunities for local conservancies and communities.”

The launch of the tickets and permits booking system is an extension of The Grow Namibia Foundation’s broader mission. With a focus on conservation, sustainability, and community development, the foundation aims to consistently push the boundaries of innovation to create positive change in the Namibian tourism landscape.

He said by enabling tourists to secure their park permits and tickets in advance, the system seeks to reduce congestion and save time at entrances, minimise the ecological footprint of tourism activities, and provide park authorities with valuable data to manage visitor flows effectively. Additionally, the platform empowers tourists or agents and operators to plan visits with ease, contributing to a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.

“We believe that sustainable tourism goes hand in hand with innovative solutions that enhance both visitor satisfaction and environmental protection, along with positive supporting alliances with authorities,” added Heiko.

“The tickets and permit booking system is a first step and testament to our commitment to driving positive change through technology and collaboration.”

The launch of the new system commences with Etosha and Sossusvlei parks’ permits, representing two of the country’s most iconic and sought-after destinations. As part of The Grow Namibia Foundation’s holistic approach, a portion of the proceeds from each ticket or permit sold shall be reinvested into conservation efforts and community development initiatives, such as the Namibian Tourism Fund, creating a positive cycle of support for both the environment and the people of Namibia.

For travellers seeking to embark on a journey of discovery while making a meaningful impact, The Grow Namibia Foundation’s booking system presents a unique opportunity. As the platform expands to include more parks and destinations, projects and initiatives, tourists can look forward to an enhanced, sustainable, and unforgettable exploration of Namibia’s wonder destinations.

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Namibia: Omba Arts newsletter

Omba Arts

December 2022

The artisans we support in 9 regions of Namibia are at the heart of Omba Arts Trust. Our loyal customers ensure we can meet our mission of supporting these artisan’s livelihoods. And the support we get from local corporate and international donors provides the means to travel to these remote communities to distribute materials, buy handicrafts, train artisans and distribute food parcels, where needed. Early next year we will be reviving the youth weeding group in a remote settlement of !Kung and Haiǁom, in northern Namibia to maximize the yields in their pearl millet fields.

Thank you to all of you! Omba is back on its feet after the impacts of Covid and the collapse of tourism.

We have been busier than ever; our new Art-i-San cushion range has been launched in Cape Town and we are happy to see the beautiful San-designed products on the shelves of the Zeitz Mocaa Museum shop in Cape Town as well as our recently opened outlet in Swakopmund.

We took part in a panel discussion about basketry at a Weave a Real Peace Zoom conference held in the USA. We kept our artisans busy with orders and packed many parcels and boxes for our local and international customers. We are finishing off the year with a workshop for San basket weavers in the Bwabwata National Park as part of a WWF climate change mitigation program.

Goodbye 2022……we look forward to 2023.

Wishing you a happy festive season.

Warm greetings

Karin le Roux

Director

OMBA ARTS TRUST  •  PO BOX 24204  •  82 DR KENNETH DAVID KAUNDA RD  •  WINDHOEK +264 61 242799

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Namibia: Rhinoceros poaching is on increase

Rhinoceros poaching is on increase in Namibia

Namibia is experiencing a surge in poaching, with the number of poached rhinoceros rising to 48 this year, according to Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.

In a Ministry statement, it said that of the poached rhinoceros, 32 were black rhinoceros and 16 were white rhinoceros.

Poaching has become more prevalent in private farms as well as black rhino custodianship farms. The Ministry is busy implementing new measures across the board to counter this surge.

Anti-Poaching Units in private farms are being strengthened while police and Ministry law enforcement officials are being roped in to assist private farmers with intelligence, law enforcement and patrols, Xinhua news agency reported.

Ministry will also be availing the services of its helicopter for aerial patrols in hotspot areas.

According to Ministry, the figure included three carcasses discovered in June and recently confirmed as poached after a thorough assessment in the Etosha National Park while the Ministry also discovered two more carcasses last week, bringing the total to 20 poached in Etosha.

He said that 12 black rhinos were poached on custodianship farms while 16 white rhinos were poached on private farms.

"We want to assure the public that the Ministry with its stakeholders will pull resources together in stopping this new surge of poaching," said the Ministry spokesperson, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected case of poaching and other wildlife crimes.

Namibia boasts the largest population of free-roaming black rhinoceros in the world and has rebuilt the white rhinoceros population after local extinction during the colonial era.

The country recorded 44 rhinoceros poached in 2021, 42 in 2020, 57 in 2019, 83 in 2018, and 55 in 2017.

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Namibia: security measures in Etosha National Park

Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta said the country has moved to make security adjustments to close any loopholes in flagship Etosha National Park, to ensure that poaching incidents do not occur again.

This comes after 11 rhinos were found poached in the country’s flagship national park this month.

“We will leave no stone unturned to apprehend poachers and bring them to justice. We will not relent in ensuring maximum protection of our iconic species in the Etosha National Park, and indeed elsewhere in the country,” Shifeta said as he warned those attempting to involve themselves in wildlife crimes.

Shifeta said joint anti-poaching units are constantly engaged in activities to deter and prevent wildlife crime.

“With the biggest population of black rhinos in the world, the world looks up to Namibia to prevent this already critically endangered species from going extinct,” he said.

“Our resolve as the citizens of this country must be clear, namely that we do not tolerate poaching and the illegal plundering of our natural resources. Our natural resources must be preserved and utilized for the benefit of all of us,” he concluded.

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Namibia: Flash floods have wiped out EHRA Base Camp!

19 February 2022

Elephant Human Relations Aid (EHRA)

Absolute nightmare - Flash floods have wiped out EHRA Base Camp!

We are in complete shock.

After being, initially, so elated by the recent rains, we are absolutely devastated having received nightmare news and footage from our camp team.

Base camp has essentially been wiped out by the force of water roaring down off the surrounding area - including a vehicle & trailer being actually picked up by the force of the water, dragged into the path of the river, carried 300 metres downstream, and buried up to the steering wheel in mud.

The entire valley coming from the main road transformed into a river! Can you imagine?

Thank goodness nobody is hurt!

Rachel has just left with a back up team to assess the full extent of the damage and to take provisions to the stranded team.

The Uis to Khorixas road is currently officially closed, as; parts of the road have washed away, the bridge over the Ugab has partly collapsed and more rain is expected…

…she will let us know more as soon as she gets through….

Remember the Pleasure Dome?.. The securable store containing our high value equipment is GONE and the elephant protection walls for the borehole have been destroyed. Also the elephant dam is gone.

As per the photos, the sleeping platform has been mutilated almost beyond recognition...

The base camp team currently have limited food & water and are sheltering on high ground in tents belonging to an adjacent camp (thank you Tracks & Trails).

We will keep you posted once we hear more news!

This is so hard to fathom... So difficult to comprehend the extent of this disaster.

Any help is always so welcome thank for all your incredible support!

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Namibia: Russian-speaking tour guides | Русскоязычные гиды в Намибии

Hire a tour guide in Namibia
Русскоязычные гиды в Намибии

One of services we provide is supplying tourists with a comprehensive information from our database about local professional freelance tour guides based in Windhoek and in major towns of Namibia. We send you an information on available guides according to your requirements: languages spoken, areas of expertise, field of knowledge: flora, fauna, history, ornithology, astronomy, sex, age, etc. Usually daily rates do not include accommodation, meals and entrance fees.

Мы предоставлям туристам исчерпывающую информацию из нашей базы данных о местных профессиональных тургидах-фрилансерах, базирующихся в Виндхуке и других крупных городах Намибии, в соответствии с вашими требованиями: область знаний, интересы: флора, фауна, история, орнитология, астрономия, пол, возраст и т. д. Обычно в дневной тариф не входят проживание гида, его питание и плата за вход в национальные парки.

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Namibia: closure of Erongo Wilderness Lodge | закрытие Эронго Вилдернес Лодж Намибия

Namibia: closure of Erongo Wilderness Lodge | закрытие Эронго Вилдернес Лодж Намибия

To everything there is a season. And as we all know, seasons change.

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It is with great regret that we have to advise that our lease on Erongo Wilderness Lodge has been terminated, with immediate effect. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, with the resulting closure of international borders and the local lockdown, we have obviously not been able to welcome any guests to our lodge for the past couple of months. Unfortunately, we have also been unable to come to a satisfactory arrangement with our landlord to provide any relief on our lease payments and to confirm the terms of our lease extension , and thus it is with a heavy heart that we have agreed to part ways.

Erongo Wilderness Lodge was our first love; our very first property. It is a magical place, and extremely special to us, and for over 19 years we have been privileged to share this land and this beautiful lodge with others.

From our early and humble beginnings back in 2001 and through every incredibly rewarding year since,  we have been blessed to have so many amazing people work and grow with us, building the lodge up to what it is now. The Erongo team is a special group of people, many of whom we have worked with for over 17 years, and we will miss them all as they now start the next chapter in their lives.

To all the wonderful guests who have passed through Erongo Wilderness Lodge, we thank you for being a part of our journey, and hope that you will carry those special memories with you. We look forward to the day when the world is a safer place for the travellers and the seekers, and we can share our new Namibian venue with you.

And of course, a special thank you to all the Tour Operators who have supported us over the many years. Erongo Wilderness Lodge could not have been the success it was without you. Special relationships have been formed, and your support and loyalty has often been the backbone of our business.

So while it is with great sadness that we now must move on, we are grateful to advise that we will be moving our business from Erongo Wilderness Lodge just 35kms down the road, to our new love-child: Ai-Aiba Lodge. Recently renovated, and situated in the same spectacular scenery of the Erongo mountains, but boasting over 200 sites of Bushman rock art, Ai Aiba Lodge is open and ready to welcome you. With the same focus on walking trails, and plans underway to develop a network of mountain bike trails suited to all skills-level, Ai Aiba is a family-friendly destination for those seeking some adventure as well as for those just needing an escape into nature. The Big Sky Lodges ethos of service and quality remains unchanged.

It’s never easy to say goodbye, but we remain grateful for the time we have had at Erongo Wilderness Lodge, and in the eternal words of Dr Seuss:
“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”

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