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What we do International Dark Sky Places

NamibRand Nature Reserve

Observing the Milky Way at Namib Nature Reserve. Photo by Matthew Hodgson.

About

Namibiaʼs NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of Africaʼs largest private nature reserves, lies in one of the naturally darkest (yet accessible) places on Earth. It was established to help protect and conserve the unique ecology and wildlife of the southwest Namib Desert, and its mission now includes preservation of the area’s starry night skies.

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In the core of the reserve is the Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDEET) Centre, which runs environmental education programs that teach about the Earth and sky. Overnight guests, usually groups of schoolchildren, even have the opportunity to sleep in “open air” units where they can view the night sky from the comfort of their beds. The NaDEET Centreʼs programs are open to all Namibians, and visitors from around the world.

Timelapse of dark skies at NamibRand Nature Reserve in 2023, by DarkSky Advocate Jeff Dai — “The view showcases the Milky Way stretching from the Southern Cross to the Northern Cross. The Small Magellanic Cloud and Large Magellanic Cloud are visible on the southern horizon. You can also find the faint zodiacal light and dazzling planet Jupiter at dawn.” Play it fullscreen for best effect.

Designated

2012

Category

Dark Sky Reserve

Address

Namibia, Africa
Google Maps

Contact

Mrs. Jessica Steyn
Tel: +264 61 224882
Website

Land Area

2,022 km2

Documents

Application
Press Release
Lighting Plan
Annual Reports