Deadvlei
Dead camel thorn trees, about 900 years old, stand on a white dry clay basin with 325-meter red dunes behind them. It is Namibia’s most famous photographic scene.
Deadvlei is a dry basin enclosed by dunes beside Sossusvlei. About 900 years ago, a shifting dune blocked the Tsauchab River, and the camel thorn trees in the basin died. Because the air is so dry, they have never decayed. Their black dead branches contrast with the snow-white clay ground, orange-red dunes and deep blue sky, forming a four-color scene that has become a classic in National Geographic and countless photographers’ portfolios. From the 4WD car park at Sossusvlei, a walk of about 1.1 km across sand reaches it (signposted, about 20 minutes). Right beside it stands Big Daddy Dune, 325 m tall. You can climb it first and slide down the crest straight into Deadvlei. The best time to photograph is 1–2 hours after sunrise, when half the dune is lit and half in shadow. After 10 a.m., the light flattens and temperatures soar. The whole area offers no shade or supplies, so wear a hat and bring plenty of water. The clay surface is fragile, so please do not step on the dead trees. Entry is included in the Namib-Naukluft National Park ticket, about N$150 per person. It is best to schedule Deadvlei, Dune 45 and Sossusvlei in the same morning: climb Dune 45 for sunrise, drive to the end of the road by about 7:30, visit Deadvlei between 8 and 10, then return to camp to rest at midday. Nearby Hiddenvlei sees fewer visitors, making it ideal for avoiding crowds.
Opening hours
Follows park gate hours (sunrise to sunset)
Nearby sights
- Big Daddy Dune
- Sossusvlei
- Big Mama Dune
- Hiddenvlei
- Dune 45
- Namib Desert Hot Air Balloon
- Sesriem Canyon
- Elim Dune