Environment Ministry Clarifies Sossusvlei Access Rules Amid Industry Concerns
By TUW
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has moved to address growing concerns surrounding the Sossusvlei shuttle concession, stating that the arrangement does not prevent self-drive tourists or registered tour operators from accessing the iconic destination free of charge.
The clarification follows widespread questions from tourism stakeholders, members of the public and the media regarding how the concession is being implemented and whether it limits access to Sossusvlei.
According to the ministry, the concession only regulates specific activities within the area and does not exclude legitimate operators. In a statement, the ministry reiterated that NTB-registered tour operators, lodges and self-drive visitors are still permitted to operate at Sossusvlei, provided they meet environmental and registration requirements.
However, access restrictions remain in place for unregistered operators, environmentally damaging vehicles such as buses and heavy trucks, as well as unsuitable two-wheel-drive vehicles. The ministry said these measures are aimed at protecting the fragile desert ecosystem while ensuring an orderly tourism experience.
In a media release issued on Saturday, the ministry reaffirmed its commitment to balancing tourism development with sustainable natural resource management, stressing that the concession model is intended to support conservation efforts without excluding compliant tourism businesses.
The ministry’s response comes after About Africa Co., a Germany-registered company contracted to manage transport operations at Sossusvlei, announced that it is the sole authorised provider of shuttle services between the 2×4 parking area and the 4×4 section leading to Deadvlei, Sossusvlei and Big Daddy dune.
The company further confirmed that registered tour guides will continue to access the area at no cost. It also announced that from 15 December 2025, private vehicles will no longer be allowed beyond the 2×4 parking zone, making shuttle transport mandatory for visitors heading into the deeper sand areas.
About Africa Co. also emphasised that no other operators are permitted to offer transport or related services within the Sossusvlei area without formal approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.
