Sossusvlei Dunes Travel Guide

The Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia encompasses part of the world's most ancient desert – the Namib – and the Naukluft mountain range. Spanning an area of almost 50,000 square kilometres (just short of 20,000 square miles), the Namib-Naukluft is the largest game reserve in Africa and the fourth-largest in the world. Its best-known and main attraction is Sossusvlei – home to the world's highest sand dunes. Their distinctive burnt-orange hues signify their ancient age. The orange colour develops over time as the iron in the sand is oxidised, rather like rusty metal. The older the dune, the brighter the colour.

'Namib' means 'open space' in the local dialect, giving its name to the country, Namibia, meaning land of open spaces. The Namib-Naukluft was established in 1907 when the German Colonial Administration proclaimed the area between the Swakop and the Kuiseb Rivers a game reserve. Its present boundaries were established in 1978 when the Namib Desert Park, the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park, parts of Diamond Area 1 and certain other government land were merged.

The incredible fauna and flora that survive here

A surprising collection of creatures survive in this hyper-arid region, including snakes, geckos, unusual insects, hyenas, gemsbok and jackal. The moisture-laden fog off the Atlantic Ocean provides more moisture to the area than its average rainfall – scarcely more than 100 mm per year – which usually falls between February and April. The winds that bring in the fog also shape the massive Sossusvlei Dunes, the world's tallest, which rise to over 300 metres (almost 1000 feet) above the desert floor. The dunes thin out towards the coastline, where they are replaced by lagoons, wetlands and mudflats that attract hundreds of thousands of birds.

Sossusvlei Dunes and Dead Vlei

Probably Namibia's most popular tourist attraction, the iconic Sossusvlei Dunes (Dune 45 is the most famous of these) are accessible by road from the Sesriem campsite. For avid photographers, the best time to capture the dunes is early morning or late afternoon when the shadows are stark and dramatic. The entire landscape is 'flattened' by the midday sunlight.

Every few decades, the cracked, parched earth of the Dead Vlei is flooded by the Tsauchab River, forming a shallow, turquoise lake, fringed with green vegetation. When water reaches the open pan, it transforms into a short-lived oasis, attracting an array of thirsty animals and birds in an otherwise arid and inhospitable land. A climb to the top of Dune 45 is a must-do when you visit Sossusvlei, as it provides endless panoramic views over the striking desert surroundings.

Exploring the desert on foot is the best way to fully absorb Namib's stunning imagery. Short walks include a hike to Hidden Vlei (4 km from the parking area and back) and to Dead Vlei (6 km from Sossusvlei and back).

The 5 km walk to Elim Dune makes a good early morning or late-afternoon walk, as does the climb up well-known Dune 45. Avoid the heat of the day and always remember to take plenty of water with you.

Sesriem Canyon

Also worth a visit, Sesriem Canyon is about 4 km from Sesriem itself. Carved by the Tsauchab River into sedimentary rock, it's about a kilometre (0.6 miles) long and up to 30 meters (100 feet) deep. Only two metres (6.5 feet) wide in some places, it has a section that permanently contains water, providing a much-needed water source for many animals.

Exploring the area

One of the most spectacular ways to explore the Namib Desert is by hot-air balloon, drifting over the endless sea of red-orange dunes. Flight safaris are also an excellent way to appreciate the sheer vastness and incredible landscapes of this unique country. You can drive to Sesriem, the solitary gateway to Sossusvlei Dunes, in a 2WD vehicle. The road to the parking area 4 km from the heart of Sossusvlei can also be navigated by 2WD but from there you'll need to walk or get a 4x4 shuttle. Elim Dune, Dune 45 and Hidden Vlei can all be reached by 2WD but walking is the most rewarding way to soak up the spectacular desert scenery.

Getting there

By air: The quickest way to get to the Namibrand and Sossusvlei region is by light aircraft. There are daily flights from Windhoek and Swakopmund.

By road: It's a good four-and-a-half hours' drive from Windhoek (306 km on dirt roads). The roads are generally in good condition and a road transfer gives you the opportunity to enjoy the wide-open landscapes of Namibia.