Namibia park permits & fees How MEFT park entry works, where permits are issued, and why NWR accommodation is separate. Always check current fees and gate times with MEFT / NWR. Last checked: 2026-10-14 MEFT issues permits — not NWR Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) controls protected-area entry. Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) operates many lodges/camps inside parks but, per MEFT’s FAQ, does not issue park permits. Book beds with NWR (or private lodges); pay entry/conservation fees through MEFT channels at gates or designated offices. Where to get a permit MEFT states most national parks issue relevant permits on arrival at park gates (fees/requirements differ at a few sites). For some Namib-Naukluft / Dorob areas (e.g. Welwitschia Drive, Sandwich Harbour access), obtain permits beforehand from MEFT offices (Windhoek, Swakopmund, Sesriem as listed on the MEFT FAQ). Travelling only on the main through-road in Namib-Naukluft may not require a permit—confirm with MEFT for your route. - Always carry passport/ID as required at the gate - Fees are typically charged per person and per vehicle for 24-hour units — confirm current structure with MEFT - Check current fees with NWR / MEFT (download the latest PDF from NWR’s fees page or ask at the gate office) Fees & gate times — do not guess Park entrance and conservation fees are gazetted and updated periodically. Published tables circulate as PDFs; amounts in old guidebooks are often wrong. Check current fees with NWR / MEFT before you budget. NWR’s site provides download links for the latest fee schedule and Etosha opening & closing times. Gate opening/closing times (especially Etosha) change by season—check with NWR / MEFT; do not rely on memorised hours. Park conduct (MEFT) MEFT lists strict prohibitions in parks, including pets, motorcycles, travelling on open vehicles/open load bays, hitch-hikers, leaving indicated roads, leaving the vehicle where not allowed, and disturbing game. Khaudum requires convoy rules—read the MEFT FAQ before remote parks. Q: Can I buy my Etosha permit from NWR online? A: MEFT says NWR does not issue permits. Expect to obtain entry documentation via MEFT at gates/offices. Check with MEFT / NWR for any updated digital process. Q: How much is park entry? A: Check current fees with NWR / MEFT — fee tables change. Use the downloads on https://www.nwr.com.na/park-entrance-and-conservation-fees-2/ or ask at the MEFT gate. Q: When do Etosha gates open? A: Check with NWR / MEFT for the current seasonal opening and closing times PDF — do not invent clock times.
Namibia Tourism Portal
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