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The Dunes of Sossusvlei

The towering orange giants of Namibia present a desert landscape like no other. Climb iconic dunes like Big Daddy and soak in breathtaking views without the typical tourist crowds. Sossusvlei is a haven for adventurers and photographers alike.

Climb the Big Daddy Dune in Sossusvlei

Start your ascent early in the morning or during sunset to catch the soft light of golden hour. It’s a challenging climb—each step forward feels like two steps back in the soft sand. But the reward at the top is worth every effort: a stunning panoramic view of the vast desert.

Wipe the sweat from your brow and fix your windblown, sand-filled hair because it’s time for photos. Play with the golden sunlight, the striking orange hues of the dunes, and the bright blue sky. The result? A picture-perfect Instagram post. For a fun ending, run down the dune—capturing the descent can also make for a unique and dynamic shot.

Deadvlei

The landscape of Namibia resembles a bizarre figment of the imagination… something painted by the brush of Dali. The colours and shapes of this landscape are surreal, and Deadvlei might be the most iconic part of it. Here, the dazzling white clay pan is interrupted by the skeletons of ancient thorn trees, set against the bright red dunes. Truly extraordinary!

Charlie has visited Deadvlei and will tell you all about this magical place in the video at the bottom of the page. Don't forget to apply plenty of sunscreen because it’s hot here! Very hot!

The Arid Deadvlei

After running down Big Daddy, you’ll find yourself in yet another awe-inspiring landscape. From the top, you may have spotted it, but now you’re standing right in the middle of it: the surreal and mysterious Deadvlei (also known as Dead Marsh). This expansive white salt pan is surrounded by towering orange dunes.

Scattered across the plain are dead, blackened trees, their twisted forms like ghostly totems. These ancient trees are said to have been dead for 700 years, yet the extreme dryness has prevented their decay. While these trees never find rest, they do make for some stunning, artistic Instagram photos.

Dune 45

In Sossusvlei, the vibrant red dunes contrast beautifully with the bright blue sky. This contrast is at its most magical at dawn. Dune 45 is famous for its elegant shape, narrow ridge, and steep ascent. From the summit, you can watch as the colours of the surrounding dunes shift with the rising sun—a true goosebump moment!

Discover our unique Sossusvlei experience and meet Boesman, a local who lives in the unspoilt desert. While deserts are often associated with dry, barren land, is that really the case? Hop into the back of Boesman’s pickup truck and uncover the secrets of the desert! Explore its depths, brace yourself for the dry, scorching air, and experience what it’s like to live in this harsh yet fascinating environment.

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