Namibia Angered by Tourists Posing Naked in Dune Safari

Windhoek, Namibia – Authorities in Namibia have strongly condemned the actions of several tourists who were photographed naked at the Big Daddy dune, a renowned tourist spot in the Namib desert.

The incident, which involved three male tourists, has ignited widespread criticism and could lead to them being blacklisted from the country's parks.

Local media and visitors expressed shock at the photographs and a video that surfaced online, showing the tourists stark naked beside the iconic dune, with their clothes lying nearby.

The images have quickly spread, drawing sharp reactions from both officials and the public.

Kenneth Nependa, vice-chairperson of the Federation of Namibian Tourism Associations, expressed his dismay to the Namibian Sun, stating that such behavior tarnishes Namibia's image and could attract the wrong type of tourist.

“It is very sickening and it really [creates] a bad image for Namibia," Mr. Nependa remarked, emphasizing that the Big Daddy dune is meant to be a family-friendly destination.

Romeo Muyunda, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, described the act as “extremely shocking” and reminded that public indecency is punishable under Namibian law. He urged tourists to behave responsibly and respect local laws and customs.

Despite the backlash, some have defended the tourists' actions on social media, arguing that sunbathing naked is harmless and that the tourists were not bothering anyone.

However, the majority opinion seems to lean towards viewing the incident as inappropriate, especially in a conservation area that is visited by families.

Authorities are urging locals and visitors to report any violations of park regulations promptly to ensure that such incidents are dealt with swiftly. Unfortunately, the tourists had already left the country by the time the authorities were alerted to the incident.

The Big Daddy dune is one of the three largest dunes in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, which is one of the world’s largest national parks and a popular destination for those looking to experience its vast, serene landscapes.

The dune is particularly famous for offering breathtaking views across the desert crests, drawing hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between tourism and respect for cultural and environmental norms, highlighting the need for clear guidelines and respectful behavior in natural and culturally significant sites.