Dorob National Park
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Namibia

Dorob National Park

Namibia

Experience Dorob National Park

Proclaimed in 2010, Dorob National Park (meaning "dry land") covers approximately 7,800 Kilometer square and forms a critical part of the 1,570 km long protected Namibian coastline. Unlike many remote parks, Dorob is a "multiple-use" area where conservation coexist with human habitation and adventure tourism. The park encompasses a hyper-arid desert environment featuring vast gravel plains, a spectacular coastal dune belt, and ephemeral river mouths. It is an area of high botanical diversity, home to rare lichens and the ancient Welwitschia mirabilis. For residents and visitors, it is a playground for adventure—ranging from skydiving and sandboarding to world-class angling—all while protecting the breeding grounds of rare birds like the Damara Tern.  

Explore on Map

Iconic Highlights

1

Cape Cross Seal Reserve: Located in the northern section, home to one of the largest colonies of Cape Fur Seals in the world.

2

The Dune Belt: A stunning area between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, popular for photography and controlled off-road adventure.

3

Messum Crater: An ancient volcanic crater in the north featuring San rock paintings and archaeological sites of Damara nomads.

4

Lichen Fields: Massive, fragile expanses of multicolored lichens that spring to life when coastal fog rolls in.

5

Walvis Bay Lagoon: A Ramsar-protected wetland and bird paradise, often filled with thousands of flamingos and pelicans.

Wildlife & Nature

Zebra

Whale

Flamingo

Travel Requirements

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date.

  • Visa: Standard Namibian visa rules (many Western and SADC countries are visa-exempt for 90 days).

  • Health: The area is Malaria-free.

  • Permits: While the main roads and towns are open, specific permits are strictly required for off-road driving in the dune belt and for angling. These can be obtained at Ministry of Environment offices in Swakopmund.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I drive anywhere in the dunes?
    No. Dorob is a multiple-use park with strict zoning. Off-road driving is only permitted in designated areas (like the Dune Belt between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay) and often requires a specific permit. Driving on gravel plains is strictly prohibited to protect fragile lichen fields.
    Where can I stay in the park?
    Unlike most parks, Dorob contains the major towns of Swakopmund and Henties Bay, offering everything from luxury hotels to guesthouses. For a more rugged experience, there are four designated campsites along the coast: Mile 14, Jakkalsputz, Mile 72, and Mile 108.
    Is it okay to touch the lichens?
    Please do not. Lichens are extremely slow-growing and fragile. Vehicle tracks on lichen fields can take decades or even centuries to disappear. Always stay on marked roads and paths.

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    Dest Type

    National Parks

    Status

    Entry Permits Required

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