Sossusvlei: Red Dunes and Deadvlei
The iconic red dunes of Namib-Naukluft and the white clay pan of Deadvlei make for a once-in-a-lifetime desert trip.
Sossusvlei is the star of Namib-Naukluft National Park—towering red dunes, clear skies, and the famous white pan of Deadvlei with its skeleton trees. A few days here belong on every Namibia itinerary.
Why go Dune 45 and Big Daddy are the classics; Deadvlei at sunrise is unforgettable. The colours shift from deep red to gold through the day. It’s also one of the more accessible desert experiences: good roads (with a short 4×4 or shuttle section) and lodges nearby.
What to do Rise early for sunrise at the dunes (gates open at dawn). Spend one full day in the park and add a second if you want to explore less-visited pans. Hot-air ballooning is available from nearby lodges.
Getting there Windhoek to Sesriem/Sossusvlei is about 4–5 hours. Most visitors stay in or near Sesriem to be close to the gate.
