Quad-biking in Namibia

One of the best ways to access parts of the sand dunes that even 4x4s can’t reach is on a quad-bike. Many lodges around the country offer quad-bike outings to view game and scenery. Quad-biking activities feature especially prominently in the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

There is considerable controversy over allowing quad-biking in the sand dunes, as it can be destructive if conducted in a careless and irresponsible manner, posing a threat to animal species and plant life in the sand-dune areas.

To guard against environmental damage, prospective quad-bikers are requested to go on the guided trips offered by reputable operators, which guarantee experiencing the sheer thrill of riding a quad-bike through Namibia’s boundless expanses of shifting sand dunes in specially designated areas.

Rules for off-road drivers

The MET has stipulated specific rules for quad-bikers and other off-road vehicles. Drivers of any vehicle that can go off-road (4x4s, sedans, bakkies, beach buggies, quad or two wheel bikes) need to adhere to the following rules when utilising the off-road areas in the Central Namibian Coast area between the Kuiseb Delta and the Ugab River:

• No driving is allowed on the beaches at Henties Bay, Wlotzkasbaken, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, from Langstrand to Bird Island, at Cape Cross and at the Mile 14, Jakkalsputz, Mile 72 and Mile 108 camping sites.
• Quad-bikers and two-wheel bikers with free permits may enjoy riding only in the designated areas in the dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.
• Quad-bikes and two-wheel bikes may ride west of the coastal road between Swakopmund and Henties Bay on existing tracks, on the beach, in the riverbed, and 10 km from the beach along the lower Omaruru River without a permit.
• No quad-bikes and two-wheel bikes are allowed north from the Omaruru River up to the Ugab River.
• Bikes and vehicles must stay within demarcated corridors to access the dunes.

Driving in the conservation areas is strictly prohibited. Permits for off-road driving can be obtained from the MET offices at Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Desert Explorers in Swakopmund, Dare Devil Adventures at Langstrand and Dune 7 Adventures at Dune 7.

Fore detailed regulations Click Here.

www.nacoma.org.na