Namib Naukluft National Park

Welcome to the Namib Desert, the oldest desert on earth and one of the most beautiful desert areas in the world. At 50,000 square kilometers, the Namib-Naukluft National Park is the largest protected area in Africa. The park consists of shifting sand dunes, vast plains, canyons and the dramatic Naukluft Mountains. The dunes of the Namib Desert were created by 5 million-year-old sand carried by the wind from the coast of Naminie. The dunes have an incredible range of red hues, depending on the age of the dune and the time of day.

A visit to this area guarantees amazing scenery, seclusion and exploration. The star attraction are the sand dunes surrounding Sossusvlei, which are also called the highest in the world. But the area has many other wonderful sights besides this.

By day, admire the breathtaking color palettes; at night by the campfire, listen to the sound of the geckos; find your constellation in the clear night sky or climb one of the dunes during sunrise or sunset and enjoy spectacular views. A visit to the Namib Desert is undoubtedly a highlight of your trip through Namibia.

Highlights of Namib Naukluft National Park

Sossusvlei

This is Namibia's most famous strip of sand and one of the most photographed spots in Sub-Saharan Africa. This large white salt and clay pan offers a stunning contrast to the surrounding warm red star-shaped dunes that rise nearly 400 meters above the valley. The morning and evening light creates beautiful shadows and intense colors. At Sossusvlei, the dunes converge in such a way as to prevent the Tsauchab River from flowing further. Hence the name Sossusvlei, which means "dead-end swamp." The Tsauchab River rarely flows as far as the pan, but after an exceptional rainy season, the pan is filled. The white valley then turns into a lake with beautiful reflections of the dunes. Visitors from all over the world come to the valley to admire this extraordinary spectacle.

Deadvlei

Deadvlei is a white clay plain located about 2 km from Sossusvlei. Deadvlei is known for the mesmerizing contrast between its pitch-black trees and white soil. Add to that the rust-red dunes and deep blue sky in the background and you can imagine that it is a photographer's paradise. Dead vlei was long ago an oasis of acacia trees fed by the Tsauchab River. When the river changed course, the trees collapsed. What you see now are the sun-blackened skeletons of the trees, which are more than 900 years old and did not decay because of the drought. The fascinating and surreal landscape can be seen in countless photos, movies and videos.

Hiddenvlei

For a more intimate experience, away from the crowds, Hiddenvlei is the right place. Here, too, you will find an almost surreal spectacle of dead acacia trees and parched lands surrounded by a red band of dunes. It is a return hike of 4 km from the parking lot to the valley on a marked trail. Keep your eyes open along the way for tracks of the animals that inhabit this area, such as springbok, Gemsbok and geckos. Don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

Sesriem Canyon

Sesriem Canyon is located about 4.5 km from the entrance gate to Namib Naukluft National Park. The 3 km long and 30 meters high canyon was formed by the Tsauchab River millions of years ago and is one of the few places in the area where water can be found year-round. For years, the canyon was used as a watering hole for thirsty travelers, who needed ses (six) straps to form a rope long enough to lower buckets down to draw water from the canyon. Explore the extraordinary rock formations on a hike or enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Dune 45

Dune 45 is located 45 km from the entrance gate to Namib Naukluft National Park. Climb this 85-meter-high dune for stunning views of the dune landscape. Dune 45 is a popular spot to observe a beautiful sunrise.

Big Daddy

At 325 meters, Big Daddy is one of the highest dunes in Namib Naukluft National Park. Located between Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, the dune offers stunning views of Deadvlei.