Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari wins Dune 7 bid

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism says it has awarded Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari the tender to manage Dune 7 on behalf of the ministry.

Dune 7, which is in the Dorob National Park, is a popular recreational area that has been criticised for its poor state characterised by littering, vandalised ablution facilities and water infrastructure.

However, the ministry has since renovated the area and added more toilets for the convenience of visitors.
In a media statement on Thursday, ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said as a long- term solution, the ministry invited bids from interested individuals and companies to manage the area.

“The tender process, which was initiated on 16 November 2022 and closed on 27 January 2023, attracted interest from 18 companies,” Muyunda said.

He added that Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari emerged as the successful bidder due to the strength of its proposal.
“Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari is expected to take over the management of Dune 7 soon. It is expected that the company will employ 45 workers as part of its operations,” he said.

He said to enhance visitors’ experience, the company will offer various adventure activities at the spot, including paragliding, dune climbing, stargazing as well as tours to Walvis Bay.

“Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari will also develop a restaurant that is open daily and can host special events like weddings or corporate functions. The restaurant will include a swimming pool and a bar that will be open till late,” Muyunda added.
According to him, visitors will also be able to overnight at the spot as the company will construct 10 luxury chalets.
“While entrance to the restaurant will be free, the company will charge the visitors different levies for other Dune 7 activities, which will be communicated once the company starts operating,” he added.

The ministry has also granted the company permission to erect and operate a tethered hot air balloon.