Sossusvlei

A photographer's dream

Information about Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is renowned for its towering red sand dunes and white salt and clay pans. It is one of Namibia's most iconic landscapes. Deadvlei, a clay pan near Sossusvlei, is famous for its surreal scenery, featuring ancient, desiccated camelthorn trees set against the backdrop of white pans and orange dunes. This striking contrast creates an otherworldly and photogenic scene. Dune 45, one of the most accessible and frequently climbed dunes in the area, stands 170 meters tall and offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Here you can experience the unique beauty and vastness of one of the world's oldest deserts.

Interesting facts about Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sossusvlei

The name "Sossusvlei" means "dead-end marsh," referring to the fact that it is a drainage basin without outflows.

The dunes around Sossusvlei are some of the oldest in the world, estimated to be around 5 million years old.

Deadvlei is one of the most photographed places in Namibia due to its striking contrast between the white clay pan, the dark dead trees, and the surrounding red dunes.

Pictures of Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sossusvlei

Possible Activities in Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sossusvlei

Guided land tour

Highlights close to Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sossusvlei

Sesriem Canyon

The Tsauchab River has shaped the Sesriem Canyon over millions of years, and it is one of the few places in this area that holds water all year round. The early Afrikaans explorers in the region named the canyon after the fact that they had to use six (“ses”) leather straps (“riem”) tied together to create a rope long enough to lower buckets into the canyon below, in order to fetch water.