Sperrgebiet National Park - Namibia

Sperrgebiet National Park, also known as the Diamond Restricted Area, is a unique and historically rich conservation area in southwestern Namibia. Established in 2008, this park covers about 26,000 square kilometers, or 3% of Namibia's land area, stretching along the coast from Lüderitz to the Orange River. Originally designated as a restricted diamond mining zone in 1908, access was highly controlled to prevent unauthorized entry, and as a result, much of the area remained undisturbed by human activity for over a century. The park now offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Namibia's most pristine and ecologically diverse regions, with limited, regulated tours to protect its sensitive environment.

Ecologically, Sperrgebiet National Park is part of the Succulent Karoo, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, which supports an array of rare and unique plants, including many succulents, adapted to survive the arid conditions. The area’s fog-fed ecosystem sustains more than 1,000 plant species, many of which are endemic to this region. Visitors can observe desert-adapted wildlife, including gemsbok, jackals, and brown hyenas, while taking in the surreal beauty of the sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and abandoned mining settlements that dot the landscape. Access to the park remains restricted to conserve its natural and cultural heritage, with tours operated under strict environmental guidelines.

Given its protected status, access to Sperrgebiet National Park requires a special permit, typically obtained through authorized tour operators. Most tours depart from Lüderitz, where visitors can also explore Kolmanskop, a famous ghost town that captures the legacy of the diamond rush era.

Contact details for the Sperrgebiet National Park:
Namibia Wildlife Resorts (for tour bookings and permits)
Phone: +264 61 285 7200
Email: see website
Website: https://www.nwr.com.na

For more details, check with authorized tour providers in Lüderitz, as guided tours are mandatory