Namibia offers a diverse range of stunning and captivating filming locations.
These regions are home to some of the most unique and visually striking sites in the world, making Namibia a premier destination for filmmakers.
The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) highlighted some of the best filimg locations in Namibia.
One of the most iconic locations is Kolmanskop, a ghost town with a fascinating history.
Established in 1908 following the discovery of diamonds by a railroad worker, this German-style town once boasted a hospital, school, ballroom, skittle-alley and casino.
However, after World War I, the town’s fortunes declined and by the 1930s, it was reclaimed by the encroaching Namib Desert, creating an eerie yet visually captivating scene perfect for cinematic storytelling.
The location was famously used in the movie ‘The Mummy’ (2017) to depict an abandoned Egyptian village.
American actor Tom Cruise in 2016 wrote on his social media “I had an unforgettable experience filming ‘The Mummy’ in Namibia. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without the wonderful people of Namibia, thank you for welcoming us with open arms”.
Another breathtaking site is Sossusvlei, situated within the Namib-Naukluft National Park.
This stunning locale was featured in ‘The Cell’ (2000), starring Jennifer Lopez, for its surreal dream sequences.
Known for its towering red sand dunes and vast salt pans, Sossusvlei’s contrasting landscapes provide stunning visuals and a unique atmosphere.
Sandwich Harbour offers a unique visual juxtaposition where the desert dunes meet the ocean, creating a mesmerising backdrop for filmmakers.
Spitzkoppe, a significant site to the San Bushmen, features towering inselbergs and granite peaks reflecting deep red and orange hues at sunrise and sunset.
The dramatic landscapes of Spitzkoppe were showcased in ‘10,000 BC’ (2008).
This location’s natural beauty and rich cultural history make it a sought-after spot for filmmakers seeking both aesthetic appeal and narrative depth.
The Skeleton Coast, stretching from Angola to the Swakop River, is famed for its haunting beauty and the remains of shipwrecks scattered along the shore.
This coastline provides a dramatic setting for any film.
The Skeleton Coast was part of the backdrop for ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015), adding to the film’s post-apocalyptic aesthetic.
The Namib Coastal Dunes, a 30km stretch of expansive dunes near urban amenities, offers filmmakers the convenience of studio filming with the stunning backdrop of vast dune fields.
The Moon Landscape, resembling the lunar surface, is formed by the erosion of a mountain range by the Swakop River, perfect for films requiring an alien or futuristic environment.
The stark terrain was utilised in the short film ‘Redemption’ (2013) to create a surreal, otherworldly setting.
The Rossing Mountain is known for its stark and remote appearance, offering a desolate backdrop featured in numerous international films.
Finally, Etosha National Park, spanning 22 270 square kilometers, features the vast Etosha pan and a variety of habitats teeming with diverse wildlife.
Etosha National Park was featured in ‘The Amazing Race’ (2006), highlighting its wildlife and vast landscapes.
NFC spokesperson Rebecca Malakia says to film in Namibia, a permit from the NFC is required, with costs varying based on production type.
“Filmmakers must familiarise themselves with the respective jurisdictions and obtain the necessary permits, particularly for locations within national parks, which fall under the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. Municipal areas also have specific requirements for filming,” she says.
Malakia says the NFC has streamlined the permit issuance process by accrediting production facilitators who have exclusive rights to obtain permits for foreign productions.
“These facilitators, vetted for their extensive production experience, ensure that international productions receive world-class services, benefiting both the local industry and professionals. The Namibia Film Commission remains dedicated to promoting, supporting and encouraging film production and marketing in Namibia,” she says. – unWrap.online
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