Sossusvlei

Why

The Sossusvlei is most likely Namibia's best attraction with its spectacular red dunes that surround a large, white, salt and clay pan. The Sossusvlei is a collection of sand dunes that come together and prevent the Tsauchab River from flowing any further. The sand dunes in this region are some of the biggest in the world, reaching as high as 383 meters.

The Sossusvlei generally experiences a dry climate but when it does rain excessively, the Sossusvlei becomes an extraordinary place for those avid photographers. When the pan fills up with water it resembles that of a lake and captures the reflection of the surrounding sand dunes. It is truly a sight to behold.

Despite the dry desert conditions, visitors discover a wide variety of plants and animals that have adapted to survive. There are a number of attractions not to be missed when visiting the Sossusvlei, including Sesriem Canyon, Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Big Daddy and Deadvlei.

The Sossusvlei boasts a good selection of mid-range lodges and luxury lodges, affording travelers a comfortable stay whilst they explore this vast wilderness.

When

Namibia is a great year-round destination, but the best game viewing, especially in the Etosha National Park, is from May to October whenthe weather is clear and dry and wildlife flock to watering holes. From November to April, some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in afternoon thunderstorms. It can be trickier to see animals as they tend to scatter then and not congregate around watering holes.

Traveller tip: Make sure you have adequate sun protection, even in the winter months. So pack a hat and lots of sunblock!

May – October

This is the best time for game viewing throughout Namibia, especially at Etosha National Park. The weather is clear and dry which means wildlife will be flocking to watering holes.

November – April

Summer rain turns this coastal region into a lush green country and occasionally floods the desert. In December, watch the wildlife at Etosha National Park and bird watch all summer long in the drier regions of Namibia.

Where

An awe-inspiring Land of Sand and Salt

Sossusvlei is one of the most photographed areas in the world as it is the only place where travelers can capture a glassy “lake” with reflections of the surrounding dunes. Situated in the largest conservation area in Africa, the Sossusvlei is best described as a large white, salt and clay pan.

Possibly Namibia's most spectacular and best-known attraction, the Sossusvlei is most certainly a destination that is great to visit all year round.

Sossusvlei translates to “dead-end marsh”, as it is the place where the red dunes come together, stopping the Tsauchab River from flowing towards the sea. The dunes are some of the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters in height and are shaped like a star. Wonderful images can be taken in the light of the morning and late afternoon.

Nestled between the Namib Desert and the Naukluft mountain range, the majestic Namib-Naukluft National Park is home to various antelope species, black-backed jackals, mountain zebras and hyenas which live near the vegetated river valleys.

Sesriem is the “Gateway to Sossusvlei” with its natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River in the local sedimentary rock, approximately one kilometer long and up to thirty meters deep.

On entering the Sesriem campsite gate, Dune 45 can be found approximately 44 kilometers away. Visitors are permitted to climb this 85-meter high dune and delight in the magnificent views of the Vlei.

Further along this route, you will discover Sossusvlei, Hiddenvlei and Deadvlei. Hiddenvlei is the furthermost away and least visited, offering some solitude in the beautiful desert. Deadvlei is the most popular with the contrast between the pitch-black camel thorn trees, estimated to be approximately 900 years old, and the white pan floor.

Accommodation around Sossusvlei ranges from camping, through self-catering and mid-range lodges, to the ultimate in luxury lodges.

Must see: The Sesriem Canyon, Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

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