The word “Sossus” translates roughly as “no return”, a feeling that perfectly sums up the barren, otherworldly beauty of the area.
The mammoth fiery-red sand dunes of Sossusvlei have become synonymous with the Namibian landscape and are the most popular and visited tourist attraction in the country. These incredibly large dunes, some of the highest in the world, rise magnificently to heights of over 200 metres. The very highest dune, nicknamed “Big Daddy”, towers over the surrounding Namib Desert at a spectacular height of 380 metres.
The best time to view Sossusvlei is close to sunrise and sunset. The gentle sunlight bathes the dunes in a soft light and the vibrant colours are strong and constantly changing, allowing for unique photographic opportunities and breathtaking displays of natural beauty. The midday heat is intense and best spent in the shade while the vast night skies here count amongst some of the clearest on the planet. An essential stop on any trip to Namibia, Sossusvlei is a glimpse at a mind-expanding desert landscape that redefines the African travel experience.
