NAMIBIA AFRICA’S BEST KEPT SECRET
Namibia’s spectacular landscapes continue to feature as a backdrop to many a blockbuster film, and each time, we ensure your production run smoothly. Namibia has four main geographical regions (from West to East): Coastal plain / Namib Desert, Namib Escarpment, the rocky Central Plateau with its high mountains and the Kalahari Sandveld that is characterised by its flat layers of sand. The most spectacular landscapes for filmmakers can be found in the Namib Desert and the surrounding area. Films such as “Flight of the Phoenix” and “10.000 BC”, “Mad Max Fury Road” and recently “Transformer – the Dark Knight” and “The Mummy” were partly filmed there. The Namib Desert stretches along the Atlantic Ocean from Angola well into South Africa and forms a belt of spectacular dunes and rock formations that reaches up to 200 kilometers inland. Swakopmund is a modern coastal town, nestled between the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean and - the center of the local film industry and in proximity to the “Dune Sea” and other spectacular locations, like Spitzkoppe and the Rossing Mountains. This makes it a perfect base for any film production. The deep-water harbour at Walvis Bay with its industrial berth and big ships is an excellent location for action shots. Enormous oil rigs from along the shores of Western Africa frequently dock for repairs and add to the scenery. The Moon Landscape is nestled between the Namib Desert and the Central Plateau - a plain rugged landscape with strange rock formations and dry riverbeds, burnt by the glaring sun and deeply dissected. Although relatively easily accessible, the environment is so hostile that no trees or human settlements can be found, which gives this region a doomsday atmosphere. Southern Namibia prides itself with locations like Sossusvlei dunes, offering spectacular colours, at sunrise and sunset when the dunes display a forever-changing kaleidoscope of colour, from light yellow to dark red. Another perfect location, especially for photography is Kolmanskop, a deserted ghost town in the desert close to Lüderitz, and so is the Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world. Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, situated in the mountains at 1654 m (5426 ft.) above sea level - a thriving modern city with excellent infrastructure. Almost everything you need is available or can be sourced internationally and delivered via overnight freight. Namibia is a true “rainbow nation” with a diverse population of more than ten ethnic groups with different lifestyles, traditions, and cultures. With majestic landscapes as laid out above, the NFC works to ensure a conducive environment for filmmakers choosing our landscapes for their films. This we do through issuing filming and or photography permits; coordinating other related permits, such as for locations, temporary work visas and the environment and drone application; where needed and where no local facilitation service provider is utilised. We welcome you to our stunning motherland and trust that you have a smooth production. This publication detailing what you would need to film in Namibia is comprehensive enough to get you started, and we wait to hear from you soon. Should you need any further assistance whilst in Namibia, we are available on the details contained in this document. “Foreword by: Florence Haifene - Executive Secretary”
NAMIBIA Landmarks: Currency : Namibian Dollar
Etosha Sossusvlei Fish River Canyon World’s oldest desert World’s highest sand dunes World’s second largest Canyon The best time to visit Namibia are between June and October Winter is between May-September) Summer (October-April)
Language :
11 ethnic groups
English
in Namibia
QUICK FACTS Population: 2.3 million
Capital City : Windhoek
300 Days of Sunshine Little Rain
824 292 square kilometers
Language :
GDP per Capita:
English
6000.00 USD
NAMIBIA ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES
All applicants that intend to film or take professional Photographs in Namibia are required to adhere to the following procedures: Please note that the following are pointers only, visit the dierent websites contained in this document to obtain the newest information. All Production companies film or photograph for commercial are requested to complete a Filming Permit Application Form which can be downloaded from the NFC website: www.nfc.na
FILMING IN NAMIBIA IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Application for Temporary Work Visa All foreign crew and professional photographers intending to work in Namibia should have a valid temporary work visa. Applicants should complete a form by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration titled “APPLICATION FOR VISA “which is available on the NFC Website. Visa applications can only be submitted to Home Affairs with the Film Permit and the proof of payment. A copy of the passport of the applicant must be attached, which can be faxed or emailed.
Local Facilitation The Namibia Film Commission recommends foreign production companies to work with local production companies throughout their production. Names and contact details can be found on www.nfc.na If local facilitators, who may be individuals, tour operators or production companies require the NFC to process visa applications on behalf, an administrative fee per visa application is payable.
Filming in National Parks All filming and professional photo shoots in National Parks requires permission from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. If a film or photography crew wishes to film in a national park, they have to fill out an MET application form. See policy on “Filming in protected areas” on the NFC website. Ministry of Environment and Tourism Website : www.met.gov.na
Heritage sites When carrying out filming and photography activities at National Heritage sites, a Production Company must apply for a permit at the Department of Heritage Research at the National Heritage Council of Namibia. National Heritage Council of Namibia Website : www.nhc-nam.org
Mining Areas For filming in mining areas, contact: The Ministry of Mines and Energy Website : www.mme.gov.na
Kolmanskop For filming or photograph in Kolmanskop please contact: Ghost Town Tours Email: kolmans@iafrica.com.na
Cape Cross or Seal Island A permission letter must be addressed to the office of the Permanent Secretary for filming at the Cape Cross or Seal Island or in protected and or restricted areas. Please contact: The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources The Permanent Secretary Website : www.mfmr.gov.na
Namibian Airports For filming at Namibia’s various airports, contact: Namibia Airports Company Website: www.airports.com.na
Filming in Windhoek Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia with a population of over 250-thousand inhabitants. For filming within the boundaries of the City of Windhoek, a permission letter must be written to the Windhoek City Police. Website : www.cityofwindhoek.org.na
Filming in Swakopmund The Town of Swakopmund is the most sought after location in the west with its beautiful dunes and coastline. For filming in the City of Swakopmund, contact : Website: www.swkmun.com.na
Filming of Minority Groups When filming or taking professional photographs of minority group in Namibia, such as the Himba or the San, authorization must be sought from the Traditional Authorities in those areas.
Completion of Finance Information All film production companies are requested to complete their financial information, indicating total spend on location. This information provides valuable information about the impact of the said production in Namibia and is used to support the work of the Commission
Transportation of Equipment Film production or photography companies can use a carnet for the transportation of their equipment. However, if carried as part of luggage, you will need to complete an inventory list of the equipment with complete information for presentation at Customs.
Archiving (use the information in permit – talking about the national archives act) Production companies are requested to provide the NFC with two edited copies of their product, in whatever format for our archives and records, after completion of their shoot. Failure to do so can affect your next application.
We welcome you to Namibia, Africa’s best kept secret !
FILM DESTINATIONS
FILM DESTINATIONS IN NAMIBIA
Use the Automated Trip Planner, based on Google Maps to plan your Filming Production.
Coastal Dunes
Moonlandscape
Rooibank
Rossing Mountain
Sandwich Harbour
Kolmanskop
Sossusvlei
Quivertree Forest
https:// www.wheretostay.na/ namibiafilmcommission
One of Namibia’s prime film locations, these dunes are amongst the highest sand dunes in the world - as high as 1,000 to 1,167 feet in places. Offering spectacular backdrops to blockbuster films like Flight of the Phoenix, 10 000BC, Mad Max: Fury Road, Drona, Dhoom 2 and photography by international magazines like Vogue.
COASTAL DUNES
Coastal Dunes LOGISTICS Where: Erongo Region, Dorob National Park Nearest International Airport: Walvis Bay Airport Nearest Town: Walvis Bay (10 min drive from airport) or Swakopmund (40min drive from airport) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Walvis Bay Welwitschia Hospital (10-30min drive depend on exact filming location; or Swakopmund Mediclinic (10min 30 min drive depend on exact filming location). Nearest Suppliers from Set: Walvis Bay (10min 30min drive) or Swakopmund (10min 30min drive) Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp gravel road so normal 2x4 vehicles are suitable. To set (inside the dune fields) 4x4 dune sand terrain which means only 4 wheel drive vehicles. National Park / Private Location: National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment & Tourism Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS No animals allowed into the park In some cases no Special Effects May only drive in designated off-road areas. Contact: www.nfc.na
With its perfect early morning red glow and orange sunset hues, the Moonscape easily sets you in Iran or Afghani scenes. This location was used for films like the Oscar winning Mad Max: Fury Road and others like Mariyaan and Drona.
MOONLANDSCAPE
Moonlandscape LOGISTICS Region: Erongo Region Nearest International Airport: Walvis Bay Airport Nearest Town: Swakopmund (40min drive from airport) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Swakopmund Mediclinic (40min drive) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Swakopmund (40min drive) Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp gravel road, so normal 2x4 vehicles are suitable. National Park / Private Location: National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism National Park Name: Namib Naukluft National Park Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment & Tourism Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS No animals allowed into the park In some cases no Special Eects May only drive in designated o-road areas. Contact: www.nfc.na
The sand dunes at Rooibank are majestic, changing colour as the day progresses; red in the morning and afternoon hours and beige at midday. This dynamic gives the filmmaker a variety of backdrop from one single location. Tirza, Dude You're Screwed (Survival Program) and commercials were all shot here
ROOIBANK
Rooibank LOGISTICS Region: Erongo Region Nearest International Airport: Walvis Bay Airport Nearest Town: Walvis Bay (10 min drive from airport) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Walvis Bay Welwitschia Hospital (35 min drive depend on exact filming location) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Walvis Bay (35min drive depending on exact filming location) Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp gravel road so normal 2x4 vehicles are suitable. To set (inside the dune fields) 4x4 dune sand terrain which means only 4 wheel drive vehicles. National Park / Private Location: National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism & Toppenaar Conservancy National Park Name:Namib Naukluft National Park Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment & Tourism plus the Toppenaar Conservancy Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS No animals allowed into the park In some cases no Special Eects May only drive in designated o-road areas. Contact: www.nfc.na
This location offers many looks, from Morocco, Hamada, Iran or Iraq can all be replicated here. A very popular location with the likes of The Mummy, Mad Max: Fury Road, Gallowwalker, Mariyaan, Music Video by megastar Drake and BBC Wonders of the Universe all filmed here.
ROSSING MOUNTAIN
Rossing Mountain LOGISTICS Region: Erongo Region Nearest International Airport: Walvis Bay Airport Nearest Town: Swakopmund (40min drive from airport) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Swakopmund Mediclinic (30min drive) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Swakopmund (30min drive) Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp & set gravel road. Normal 2 x 4 vehicles required. National Park / Private Location National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism National Park Name: Dorob National Park Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment &Tourism Permit Application Time: 2 week + RESTRICTIONS Limited restrictions Contact: www.nfc.na
A location unique only to Namibia, Sandwich Harbour offers incredible scenery. Filmakers can enjoy views of the coastal dunes merging the coastline. Those lucky enough to work on this location include, the most recent Transformers 5, Drona, Ghajini, Mariyaan and the Mad Max: Fury Road Commercial
SANDWICH HARBOUR
Sandwich Harbour LOGISTICS Region: Erongo Region Nearest International Airport: Walvis Bay Airport Nearest Town: Walvis Bay (10min drive from airport) Nearest Private Hospital from Set:Walvis Bay Welwitschia Hospital (1hour 1.5 hours drive depending on the tide of the ocean Nearest Suppliers from Set: Walvis Bay (1 hour 1.5 hours depending on the tide of the ocean Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp & set heavy 4 wheel driving terrain. Specialized dune drivers and 4 wheel drive vehicles are required. National Park / Private Location National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism National Park Name Namib Naukluft National Park Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment & Tourism Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS No animals allowed into the park In some cases no Special Eects DiďŹƒcult travel terrain to basecamp and set. Only 4 wheel drive vehicles can travel to this location and specialised dune drivers are required May not overnight in the park. Contact: www.nfc.na
A popular photography location, with views used by Vogue Magazine and films as far back as 1993’s Dust Devil, Magic Journey to Africa and Life After People. Kolmanskop not only has a thrilling history but is a pristine location protected to preserve its past.
KOLMANSKOP
Kolmanskop LOGISTICS Region: Karas Region Nearest International Airport: Luderitz Airport with connecting flights from Windhoek : Eros Airport, only Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays. Nearest Town: Luderitz (10 min drive) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Windhoek (8 hour drive) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Luderitz (10min drive) Travel Terrain & Transport:To basecamp & set gravel road. Normal 2 x 4 vehicles required. National Park / Private Location National Park Authority: Ministry of Mines & Energy plus Ministry of Environment & Tourism National Park Name: Tsau//Khaeb National Park (also known as Sperrgebiet National Park. Location Permission Application: Ministry of Mines & Energy plus Ministry of Environment & Tourism Permit Application Time: 4 weeks + RESTRICTIONS No reconstruction to building ; No special eects Minimum 1 month application time period Expensive filming fees If filming longer than 3 days, each film crew and cast member must submit a police clearance certificate from his / her country. Contact: www.nfc.na
Dune wonderland, a prime location in Namibia, doubling for varied middle-eastern countries. Sossusvlei was a backdrop of films such as the Magic Journey to Africa, The Cell and Ghajini.
SOSSUSVLEI, DEADVLEI & SESRIEM CANYON
SOSSUSVLEI – INCL. DEADVLEI & SESRIEM CANYON LOGISTICS Region: Karas Region Nearest International Airport: Hosea Kutako Airport Windhoek Nearest Town: Windhoek or Walvis Bay (5 hour drive) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Windhoek or Walvis Bay (5 hour drive) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Windhoek or Walvis Bay (5 hour drive) Travel Terrain & Transport:To basecamp tarmac road & gravel road. To Deadvlei heavy 4 wheel drive sand terrain 4 wheel drive vehicles required National Park / Private Location National Park Authority: Ministry of Environment & Tourism National Park Name: Namib Naukluft National Park Location Permission Application: Ministry of Environment & Tourism Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS May not enter the park before sunrise, and must leave the park before sunset May only enter / leave the park outside these limits if all crew and cast are accommodated at Sossus Dune Lodge. Limited availability. No animals allowed 1.5 km walk into Deadvlei no vehicles allowed inside, therefore all equipment, water, meals, etc. must be carried into Deadvlei. Contact: www.nfc.na
If night photography is your thing, this is one of the best locations for perfect star trails and dark moon shots. Declared a national monument, the ancient and famous Quivertree Forest and the dolerite rock formations of the Giants Playground are a sight to behold.
QUIVERTREE FOREST
QUIVER TREE FOREST LOGISTICS Region: Karas Region Nearest International Airport: Hosea Kutako Airport Windhoek (7 hour drive) Nearest Town: Keetmanshoop (15 min drive) Nearest Private Hospital from Set: Windhoek (7 hour drive) Nearest Suppliers from Set: Keetmanshoop (15min drive) Travel Terrain & Transport: To basecamp & set gravel road. Normal 2 x 4 vehicles required. National Park / Private Location Private Location Authority: Quiver Tree Forest Rest Camp Management National Park Name: Private Location Location Permission Application: Quiver Tree Forest Rest Camp Manager Permit Application Time: 2 weeks + RESTRICTIONS Limited restrictions yet , no damage to any of the trees of stone structures. Contact: www.nfc.na
COUNTRY FACTS Although not as well known as some of its African neighbours, Namibia is a gem for those in search of the unexplored and wilderness. Namibia is a large country with one of the lowest population densities in the world and bizarre desert scenery on Africa's south-west coast, which has enjoyed more than a decade of stability since achieving Independence on 21 March 1990. Namibia is a peaceful country which is economically prosperous as a result of its productive mining, fishing, tourism and agricultural industries. Namibia is a desert country, offering breathtaking landscapes such as the Namib Desert which is said to be the oldest in the world, with its high dunes and inspiring sense of space. The central plateau with its typical African thorn bush savannah and rugged mountains rising abruptly from the plains giving way to the majestic Fish River Canyon in the south. The northern landscapes range from dense bush and open plains of the great Etosha Pan, to woodland, savannah, flood plains and lush vegetation. The people of Namibia are diverse and interesting. They include one of the oldest cultures on earth: the San or "Bushman" people. The history of Namibia has resulted in a peculiar cultural mix. Parts of the country still have a German colonial atmosphere and culture with a fascinating mix of indigenous cultures and modern lifestyle. Namibia boasts a proud record of uninterrupted peace and stability has a remarkable infrastructure which includes an expanding road network, public railway system, public and private airfields, modern medical facilities with efficient emergency response units. An international telecommunication network allows constant contact and information exchange with the rest of the world. FACTS AND FIGURES Population: 2 million (UN estimate 2005) Population density: 2.43 persons per square km Population growth: 1.19% Religion: Christian 90%, Indigenous and other beliefs 10% Literacy: 65% of total population Language: English is the official language Capital: Windhoek, population 223,364 Please Email us to get the best assistance from us.
POLITICS AND HISTORY Namibia was proclaimed a German protectorate in 1884, then called South West Africa it was later administrated by South Africa under a 1920 League of Nations mandate, until the implementation of United Nations Resolution 435 resulted in Namibia’s independence on March 21, 1990. Namibia is ruled by a Multiparty Parliament and has a democratic Constitution that is highly regarded by the international community. The Government's policy of national reconciliation and unity embraces the concepts of tolerance, respect for differing political views, and racial and ethnic harmony, freedom of religion and press Government type: Republic, secular state Executive: Chief of State: President Hage G. Geingob Head of Government: President Hage G. Geingob Cabinet: Appointed from the members of the National Assembly Legislative: Bicameral legislature consists of the National Council and the National Assembly Judicial: Supreme Court NATURE Flora Namibia has about 200 endemic plant species, 4,300 higher plant species and 422 grass species within its 14 vegetation zones, ranging from desert vegetation to semi-desert, variation of leaf tree, mountain, thorn bush, highland, dwarf shrub, camel thorn and mixed tree savannahs and the forest savannahs and woodlands of the north east. Mopane, Marula, Giant Figs, Baobabs, Aloe and Species of the Leadwood tree are some of the species found in Namibia. Other plants like the Devil’s Claw and Hoodia are making medicinal break-through in the health industry. Fauna The country has an abundance of animal species. Some of these species are rare to sight, given either their nature or limited population. Black Face Impala are only found in the North Western region of country. Other unique species to sight include Honey Badgers, Wild Dogs, Sable Antelope, Pangolins and desert dwelling moles. Some species are not rare, although through adaptations they are unique in their own right. Some of these include desert-adapted elephants and giraffe. Big game such as elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, leopard, giraffe and 20 species of antelopes can be found in Namibia.
NATIONAL RESERVES Namibia boasts over 17 national reserves and game parks that are owned by Government. The Etosha National Park is the third largest in Africa and offers contrasts in itself and to the other popular parks like the Namib Naukluft Park with the majestic sand dunes at Sossusvlei or the aweinspiring arid Fish river Canyon. The private sector has become increasingly involved in wildlife conservation and there has been a rapid growth in the number and size of private conservation areas. Most parks offer accommodation in well-equipped rest camps and lodges. ECONOMY GDP: US$5.5 billion (2004) Main exports: Minerals, beef and fish Main imports: Foodstuffs, construction material and manufactured goods Main trading partners: South Africa, UK, Spain, Japan and USA The pillars of the Namibian economy are mining, fishing, tourism and agriculture. The largest single contributor to employment in Namibia is government, followed by the agricultural and fishing sectors. Manufacturing in Namibia is mainly limited to the processing of raw materials and agricultural produce. Most of the country's trade is with South Africa, essentially involving the exchange of raw materials for manufactured goods. Recent economic policy has seen many former state enterprises transferred to the private sector. The economy has performed reasonably well during the last decade. Annual growth in 2004 was 5.7% and inflation was 4.1%. However, unemployment hovers at around 35%. CLIMATE Namibia has the perfect weather conditions for filmmakers. It is the second most arid country in Africa, along the coast and in the south west of the country annual rainfall ranges between only 0 – 10 mm per year, almost exclusively in the summer months from November to April. Since Namibia is scarcely populated and vast, there is virtually no pollution or smog and during the dry season the sun shines undisturbed from clear blue skies, making sunsets and sunrises an unforgettable experience. With 300 days of sunshine on average per year, Namibia is truly a sunny place. During the summer months the usually dry riverbeds become saturated with torrents of muddy water in a very short time. It is during this time that the sun-scorched land comes to life and develops a colourful horizon to horizon floral carpet within a few days. Majestic clouds with colourful sunsets and sunrises add dramatic backdrops to the beautiful landscapes of Namibia. For up to date weather info visit: www.weatheronline.de.
INFRASTRUCTURE Namibia can easily be reached by plane with direct flights from Europe or connecting flights from South Africa. Major international airlines connect Southern Africa to the hubs of the world within short travel times. Hosea Kutako International Airport (HKIA) is situated 45 km east of Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, and can be reached within 24 hours or less from most American, Australian and Asian cities, from Europe in even under 10 Hours. The airport at Walvis Bay continues to be upgraded aiming to elevate the status of the airport as Namibia’s second international airport. This airport also services international flights from South Africa with more destinations being planned in the near future. The vast network of roads, paved and gravel, is constantly expanding and allows swift and safe travel to all destinations within the country and to Namibia’s neighbours. A well established local aviation industry offers the possibility to get around fast and comfortably. Through the ever growing tourism industry in Namibia, comfortable and efficient transport, accommodation and a high standard restaurant network can be found around Namibia. All the major towns have supermarkets and shops offering groceries of European standard. Accommodation is as varied as the scenery modern hotels, comfortable B&B establishments or exclusive lodges in the African bush, which serve exquisite local delicacies prepared with international inspirations to accommodate any discerning palate. All the major Banks are linked to international financial institutions and foreign exchange is easily accommodated. Transfers to Banks in Namibia are swift and guaranteed. The Namibia Dollar (1N$ = 100 Cent), Credit Cards and some foreign currencies are accepted throughout Namibia. For more info visit the Bank of Namibia website. Electricity is available throughout the country either by national supplier or own generation - 220Volt AC, 50Hz. Adaptors to most international plugs are available. Telecommunication networks are available throughout the country. Landlines, mobile and satellite providers cover 100% of the country and serve 90% of the population. Data, fax and voice connections are possible to and from all countries. TIME ZONES AND MORE GMT +2 Summer Time (September to April) GMT +1 Winter Time (April to September) Internationally trained medical personnel are available in modern medical facilities. Basic medical treatment can be received in most rural communities. Efficient emergency response units with all terrain vehicles, modern ambulances and air support are available. A great number of vehicle rentals provide you with all your 2x4 and 4x4 needs and engineering and artisan workshops which offer repair services of any kind are available in all major towns.
NAMIBIA FILM COMMISSION NR 17, CORNER OF FELD AND NEWTON STREET
Email:
info@nfc.na
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+264 61 381 900
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FILM DESTINATION
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