Characterised by the large red dunes that surround it, Sossusvlei is a large, white, salt and clay pan and is a great destination all year round. The dunes in this area are some of the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters, and provide photographic enthusiasts with wonderful images in the beautiful morning and evening light.
Sossusvlei literally translates to “dead-end marsh”, as it is the place where the dunes come together preventing the Tsauchab River to flow any further, some 60km east of the Atlantic Ocean. However, due to the dry conditions in the Namib Desert the River seldom flows this far and the pan remains bone-dry most years. During an exceptional rainy season the Tsauchab fills the pan, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness this spectacular site. Photographic enthusiasts are spoilt with a glassy “lake” holding reflections of the surrounding dunes. When the pan fills it can hold water for as long as a year.
Despite the harsh desert conditions in the area, one can find a wide variety of plants and animals that have adapted to survive.
Sossusvlei is an incredible place for stargazing as there’s very little light pollution in the area and the nearby Namib Rand Nature Reserve was declared an official dark sky reserve in 2012, making it the first dark sky reserve in Africa.
This once in a lifetime flight usually takes lift off at sunrise, giving you the opportunity to view the beauty of the shadows, and lights, that cast over the dunes of Sossusvlei.
Little could compare to a hot air balloon adventure; it’s an experience nothing short of breathtaking, especially when your journey includes unparalleled views of the exquisite landscape of the Namib desert.
For those that don’t get to do it every day, it’s a unique experience that feeds the mind, body, and soul. Having your hair blow in the wind, breathing in the fresh smells of the clean, crisp air, and galloping into the distance, with the stunning open plains before you, it’s an experience that brings a deep sense of freedom and delight.
Here you’ll find absolute calmness, and serenity, and surprisingly, horse-riding! Galloping through the sands in a pristine destination sounds like something out of a movie but in the Namib Desert it’s the norm.
quad biking offers that same feeling of openness and unwavering space. It’s an activity that anyone can do, young or old, beginner or pro, and it’s a fantastic way to venture around the dunes.
If you were unsure of whether you’d get viewings of wildlife- we’re here to tell you that you most likely will! The likes of spotted are, brown hyena, springbok, gemsbok and ostrich, roam about in the desert, and make frequent appearances!
