Kwessi Dunes – where nature does the talking

Pru Allison
August 21, 2024

Safaris are known for the adventurous experiences they offer, but often guests are pleasantly surprised by the peace and serenity that can be found out in the wilderness. Nowhere is this more apparent than at Kwessi Dunes in NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia where vast skies sparkle and rolling desert dunes unfolds before you. This is a place where you can totally tune out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and reconnect to the natural world. This is Kwessi Dunes, where nature does the talking.

We’re not the only ones who think so, NamibRand Nature Reserve has recently been named Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park by Quiet Parks International, which in conjunction with its status as Africa’s first International Dark Sky Reserve at Gold Tier level, makes it a trailblazer in absolute calm.

This prestigious recognition underscores the NamibRand’s dedication to safeguarding the unique ecology and wildlife of the south-west Namib Desert, including fostering a naturally quiet sanctuary for animals, birds and humans alike.

“NamibRand – the land of red dunes and fairy circles,” recalls Edward Alant a Field Recordist who spent time in the quiet of the reserve. “I was mesmerised by the peace and tranquility of the ever-changing landscape during my time at NamibRand. The dunes are alive and moving – recording in the desert gives you an appreciation of the complex challenges faced by many reserves across the African continent. When I listen to the recordings, I can relive the moments, walking through the deep sand, setting up my recorder in an Acacia tree, and taking a few minutes to listen. A Wilderness Quiet Park Award symbolises the effort expended by the owners and management of NamibRand to preserve the integrity of the natural ecosystem. I was privileged to spend a few days with the NamibRand team and highly recommend (it to) anyone considering NamibRand as a destination.”

Natural Selection was founded as a conservation-driven company so we choose our partners carefully, ensuring that we share the same values and core mission to make a difference to Africa’s wild places. The NamibRand like us, is dedicated to conservation and ensuring long term sustainability through responsible tourism practices.

NamibRand is an area of great ecological importance, and with its remarkably dark, unpolluted skies sets a formidable example in preserving natural nocturnal environments.

“This award reinforces NamibRand’s commitment to preserving its natural soundscape and wilderness character,” notes Matt Mikkelsen, Executive Director of Wilderness Quiet Parks. “By promoting awareness of natural sounds, NamibRand encourages reverence for its ecosystems.”

In addition to its ecological importance, NamibRand is also celebrated for its exceptional darkness. The International Dark Sky Association has designated NamibRand as an International Dark Sky Reserve at the Gold Tier level, a testament to its remarkably dark skies and commitment to preserving natural nocturnal environments.

Kwessi Dunes itself has been carefully designed to sit lightly and make the most of this pristine environment, maximising its profound impact for guests. Attached to each guest chalet is an open roof ‘star gazer’ room where guests can lay back for a siesta during the day, or beneath star-spangled skies at night in total peace and foster a deeper connection to nature in a place committed to its preservation. That’s music to our ears.