Namibia home to Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park
The NamibRand Nature Reserve in southern Namibia has achieved the distinction of being named Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park by Quiet Parks International (QPI). QPI is a non-profit organization dedicated to identifying and protecting endangered quiet locations, as such places are becoming increasingly rare.
Established to protect and conserve the unique ecology and wildlife of the south-west Namib Desert, NamibRand is the largest private nature reserve in southern Africa, covering 188,980.16 hectares. It borders the Namib-Naukluft National Park and the Namib Sand Sea World Heritage Site.
“This award reinforces NamibRand’s commitment to preserving its natural soundscape and wilderness character,” said Matt Mikkelsen, Executive Director of Wilderness Quiet Parks. “By promoting awareness of natural sounds, NamibRand encourages reverence for its ecosystems and fosters a deeper connection to nature.”
In May 2012, the International Dark Sky Association designated NamibRand as an International Dark Sky Reserve at the Gold Tier level, highlighting its exceptionally dark skies and dedication to preserving natural nocturnal environments. It was the second place on Earth to receive Gold Tier status and the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Africa.
Official Quiet Park website link: https://www.quietparks.org/the-namibrand-nature-reserve-namibia-africas-first-wilderness-quiet-park
Source: Travelnews.africa