Sossusvlei

By Bun Booyens

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Sossusvlei is a “simple” destination: there is only one route, a smallish tar road of 60 km to drive from the entry gate to the parking area, from where you take another 5 km sand track (either in your own 4x4 or a shuttle service) to the two main attractions: Dead Vlei with its tree skeletons and Sossusvlei itself.

The best tip? Get started early, when it’s still dark, because the charm of this dune landscape is at its best early in the morning when the sun rises.

Unfortunately the park authorities are also aware of this fact, hence it’s very expensive to camp at Sesriem, the “official” campsite at the entrance gate. You do get the privilege of an hour head start on those who sleep outside the park gates on the drive to the vlei.

Many people stop at Dune 45. Climb to the top of this dune and see the sun rise over the desert – it’s a spectacle you won’t easily forget. But the chances of you being there alone are slim. Most tour buses head straight for it, so Hans and Heidi will most probably within hearing distance.
Consider driving straight to Dead Vlei or Sossuvlei, and experience that incomparable silence. Then go to Dune 45 in the late afternoon for sunset.

Related articles:
Sesriem
Kaokoland
 

Published 1 June 2010

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