Sossusvlei Travel Guide
Travel to Sossusvlei - Massive Sand Dunes
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The monumental sand dunes of Sossusvlei are the main attraction for this region, the dunes are ranked as some of the most outstanding and well preserved in the world. The highest dune measures 325m, the dunes are formed by strong multi-directional winds.
Amongst the high dunes of the enormous sand sea there is a clay pan, which was clearly formed by water. The pan only fills up when there has been sufficient rain in the catchment area of the Tsauchab which happens extremely rarely (most recently in 2000), when the pan fills the area becomes a haven for birdlife until the waters rapidly soak away into the ground. Usually Sossusvlei is totally dry.
Attractions in Sossusvlei
The entrance gate to the most famous part of the Dune Namib – and no doubt one of Namibia’s most notable sights – is located at Sesriem. From there it is still another good hour’s driving to Sossusvlei. Gates are open from before sunrise until after sunset to enable you to see the dunes at their best. The famous star dunes of Sossusvlei tower around the depression, offering thousands of themes to photographers – the most beautiful ones early in the morning and late in the afternoon when light and shadow create a more three-dimensional appearance of the landscape.
Activities in Sossusvlei
Do not hesitate to climb a dune! Only from the top will you experience their sheer size, and your effort will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the sand sea. At Sossusvlei you will come across sign boards showing the way to another two depressions which are well worth a visit: ‘Dead Vlei’, a dry pan with lumps of clay and dead camelthorn, and secluded little-known ‘Nara Vlei’. Walking tours are available in the dunes if you would like to discover more about the plant and wildlife.
Relaxing
There are several restcamps in the area
Getting Around
It is possible to drive through some parts of the park in a normal car however 4x4 is recommended – due to the fragile landscape all vehichles must stay on the roads. If you are traveling without 4x4 you will need to park your car and take a shuttle bus the final 5km to the centre of the dunes
Sossusvlei Reviews
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Posted on:
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Saturday, 8th November 2008
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The dunes are much larger than they look, especially the infamous dune 45. We tried to climb it but gave up half way.
Also took a balloon flight over the dunes - views were excellent but the wind was not good which mean't we did not travel far. If you are thinking of doing this then it may be worth checking out the weather situation before you decide.
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Posted by:
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Sooty
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Posted at:
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16:55
