Namibia Part 3: Sand Dune Sea

August 24, 2013

Hiking the ridge for spectacular views over Dune Valley

Sossusvlei ("the gathering place of water") is technically a specific salt pan, but the name is often used to reference the entire 32,000 square kilometre area that is the sand dune sea. This is easily Namibia's most visited tourist destination, and was a big draw for us wanting to come here. There are many truly inspiring dunes and sights within the area; here are some of our favourites from the sea of sand. 

Looking back- I took this shot of M just after he took the cover shot of me, above

Sunset at Dune 45 (there seems to be some controversy over the name: it is either because it is 45km from the main park gate, or because the ridge is a perfect 45 degree angle, or because it is the 45th dune from the entrance gate). There is this magical moment just before the sun sets when the dune turns fire-red...a truly special moment to witness. 

Sunrise over the dunes surrounding Deadvlei

The fastest way off a dune? Run down the side of it...

I liked the way the light created the deep shadows on the one side of this dune

The Sesriem Canyon: a one kilometre-long and 30 meter-deep canyon carved by the force of the Tsauchab River millions of years ago. The canyon is literally a break in the ground- from above you wouldn't even know it was there unless you fell into it (or saw the sign and parking lot for it at the top...).

Gemspok (also called an Oryx) posing for me (or sizing me up with his one metre-long horns, not sure which)

Stars just beginning to fade into the 4am sky

Sunrise as seen from Dune 45

Jumping for joy with the scraggly trees at Dune 45

Selfies at the dunes

Apparently the black in the dune sand is from magnesium (not to be confused with the specks along the ridge of the dune, which are in fact people climbing it)

In and around the dunes