Maybe on the top 10 of my african bucketlist. Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Namibia, with the highest sand dunes in the world, the photogenic Deadvlei full of tree skeletons, and a massive salt pan known as Sossusvlei (Sossus means “place of no return”).

Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan that was created by the Tsauchab River that flows through the Sesriem Canyon every 5-10 years. The river does not reach the Atlantic Ocean even during the wet years, but drains away between the dunes. The famous scorched acacia trees in Deadvlei had the chance to grow when the river previously flowed through the area, however, due to a drought, all of the trees died. Since there was not enough moisture for the dead trees to decompose, they remain perfectly preserved, standing for over 900 years now, and possibly for centuries to come. That's why you call it the Death Valley, because when you'll be there it will be only you and the small creatures inside the dunes.

Dead Vlei has been claimed to be surrounded by the highest sand dunes in the world, the highest reaching 300–400 meters (350m on average, named “Big Daddy” or “Crazy Dune”), which rest on a sandstone terrace.

 

How to visit:

I would totally suggest camping here (there is a campsite that is 24 dollars p/ night). I know people that have done it, so.. why not see the sunrise in one of the oldest deserts in the world? There are some accomodation options too but they sell out fast so you should make an early booking.

The entrance to the park is 60 Namibian dollars per person. You can go on your own, driving a 4x4, or book a tour.

The campsite link:

http://www.nwrnamibia.com/sesriem.htm

The tour links:

https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=dead%20vlei&destId=

Happy journeys in Namibia!