Big Daddy 250m
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Big Daddy is the tallest dune in the Sossusvlei area. This magnificent dune is situated between Sossusvlei and Deadvlei and at 325 meters it dwarfs the other dunes. Should you want the ultimate bragging rights, take a lot of water and trek to the top of Big Daddy where you can look down onto Deadvlei.
At 325 meters, Big Daddy may be the highest dune in the Sossusvlei area, however it is not the highest in the Namib Desert. This honour is given to Dune 7, which has been measured at 388m. Dune 7 earned its name by being the 7th dune along the Tsauchab River.
Dead Vlei
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
This ancient clay pan was once an oasis, studded with acacias and fed by a river that suddenly changed course, leaving the earth to dry up along with the trees it previously supported. So dry were the climatic conditions that the trees never decomposed – instead they were entirely leached of moisture so that today, 900 years later, they remain as desiccated, blackened sentinels dotting the pan’s cracked surface. Surrounded by the red-pink dunes of the Namibia Desert, they create a surreal spectacle that is a photographer's dream.
Dune 45
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Named for its location 45 kilometres past the town of Sesriem, Dune 45 is renowned for its elegant shape, which – along with its position close to the road – have earned it the distinction of ‘most photographed dune in the world’. If you’re not keen for the strenuous hike to the top of Big Daddy, Dune 45 is a more forgiving alternative, standing at only 80 metres and featuring a much gentler gradient.
Sesriem Canyon
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Sesriem Canyon is a captivating natural wonder located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia. Carved over millions of years by the Tsauchab River, this narrow gorge is a testament to the power of erosion. The name Sesriem comes from the Afrikaans and Dutch words for six leather straps, which early pioneers used tied together to draw water from the deep pools within the canyon. Sesriem Canyon is not only a geological marvel but also a haven for unique desert flora and fauna, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the surreal landscapes of the Namib Desert.
Day Notes
Make your way east and onward to the desert region of the Namib Naukluft, where we will spend 2nights at Desert Camp. Your lodge enjoys stunning mountain views over gravel plains and sunsets are spectacular. This afternoon perhaps take part in a sunset horse ride or alternatively a sun-downer drive to explore a little. The following day, rise early to drive to Sesriem gate where you enter the park ideally at sunrise following the road to the 2x4 car park where you then venture into the dune fields. Visit nearby Dead Vlei, where the ancient and skeletal camel thorn trees stand on the white pan with a backdrop of orange sand dunes and deep blue skies. Explore the area on foot, climb a dune and witness the endless sand sea before returning to your vehicle and wending your way back to your accommodation. It's worth a stop at Dune 45 - one of the most accessible and photographed dunes, along with a visit to Sesriem Canyon. Alternatively, you can join a guided activity offered by the lodge if you would rather sit back and relax and enjoy the changing landscapes
Overnight in twin share room with en suite facilities on dinner, bed and breakfastApprox 5hours.
Description
Self-catering at its Best amidst unparalleled Desert Beauty...
Desert Camp is situated just 5 km from the entrance gate to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon in the Namib Nauklauft Park. Nestled under centuries old camel thorn trees, Desert Camp offers unsurpassed views over the Desert landscapes and surrounding mountains - An absolute must for the nature lover and photographer!
The 28 affordable self-catering accommodation units are equipped with an en-suite bathroom, shaded veranda with a fitted kitchenette, barbeque, power points and an adjacent parking area. Each air-conditioned room features twin beds and a fold-out sleeper couch to accommodate 2 small children (under 12) free of charge when sharing with 2 full paying adults. Utility boxes with most utensils needed are available at reception and fresh food supplies can be ordered daily.
Facilities at the main building include a fully stocked and serviced bar with big screen television, a sparkling swimming pool and 2 communal bomas with cooking and wash up facilities which are perfect for groups travelling together.
Meals can be enjoyed at the nearby Sossusvlei Lodge restaurant and their Adventure Centre offers a range of exciting Desert activities to explore the area.
A fully stocked shop, fuel and an Internet café is available at the Sossus Oasis Service Station.
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Meal on Request, Pool, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Cooking Facilities, Disabled Rooms, En-Suite, Fridge, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Your Stay
2 Nights
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast