Sossusvlei is one of the main destinations in Namibia. The monumental red sand and magnificent display of different shades, colors and depressions, fading and deepening throughout the day, make Sossusvlei a place for photographers and romantics alike.
Starting in Sesriem, the road to Sossusvlei is lined with exotic, brightly colored dunes. Every hour of the day is unique, and as the day progresses, new colors are constantly being introduced. The dunes display vibrant colors of orange, maroon, and pink, and the Tsaris Mountains display deep blues and purples. Aside from the yellows and tans of the dancing grasses, it’s easy to feel enlightened during a visit to Sossusvlei. It is also home to ostriches, gazelles and oryx that roam the area like prehistoric creatures living on another planet.
The dunes surrounding the vlei are about 350 m (1,120 ft) high when measured from the bottom up; have a reputation as some of the highest in the world. Essentially, they are nothing more than huge mounds of sand that have formed at the end of other longitudinal dune ridges that line the erosion channel of the Tsauchab River. Sossusvlei is located at an altitude of 570 m (1,824 ft) above sea level. Some of the dune crests rise to 3,072 feet (960 m) above sea level.
The Sossusvlei dunes are often called star dunes due to their crescent shape. Best viewed from the air, the multiple fused ridges that meet at the highest point are the result of multi-directional winds moving the sand back and forth. When strong winds blow on the vlei, layers of sand form in the air from the top. This is commonly called the “Smoky Dunes”.
Pay special attention to the ancient camel thorn trees that line the dry Tsauchab River to the vlei. The paved road, accessible to 2WD vehicles, ends about 4km from Sossusvlei at a parking and picnic area. From the parking area the trail disappears into deep coarse sand. The remaining distance can only be completed by a 4×4 vehicle or on foot. There is transportation to and from Sossusvlei and the parking area. The shuttle is a bit expensive, N150 p/p both ways, not a great service. Walking is difficult and strenuous, and can take almost an hour. However, it is well worth the effort as it gives you the opportunity to freely explore the area, observe roaming animals and get a good idea of the scale and size of Sossusvlei’s surroundings.