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Family Guide to...
Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is a photographer’s paradise and a nature lover’s dream, offering the opportunity to witness the ever-changing hues of the dunes as they shift with the light of the rising and setting sun. Explore the ethereal beauty of Deadvlei, where ancient camel thorn trees stand as silent sentinels amidst a sea of rust-red sand, or climb to the top of Big Daddy, the tallest dune in the area, for panoramic views that will take your breath away.
Welcome, dear family, to the majestic and unforgiving world of Sossusvlei, Namibia. If you’re looking for a vacation that combines scorching heat, endless sand, and the occasional existential crisis, then you’ve come to the right place! Sossusvlei is a true natural wonder, boasting towering sand dunes, ancient dead trees, and the kind of stark beauty that makes you question your insignificance in the grand scheme of things. So, pack your bags, slather on the sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you both breathless and questioning your life choices.
Getting There
First things first, let’s talk about getting to Sossusvlei. If you’re flying into Namibia, you’ll likely arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, the capital city. From there, it’s just a short 5-6 hour drive through the vast, unforgiving desert to reach Sossusvlei. And by “short,” we mean “long enough for your kids to ask ‘are we there yet?’ approximately 837 times.” But don’t worry, the stunning views of endless sand and the occasional lonely tree will keep you entertained throughout the journey.
If you’re feeling adventurous (or foolish), you can opt to self-drive to Sossusvlei. Just make sure your vehicle is equipped to handle the rugged terrain, and that you have enough water, snacks, and patience to last you through the trip. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour or shuttle service, sit back, and let someone else deal with the stress of navigating the desert. We drove, and it was epic.
Hiking Big Daddy
Now, let’s get to the main attraction: hiking the infamous Big Daddy sand dune. At a staggering 325 meters tall, Big Daddy is not for the faint of heart (or the out-of-shape). But if you’re determined to conquer this behemoth, here are a few tips to help you survive the experience:
- Start early: Trust us, you do not want to be climbing Big Daddy in the middle of the day when the sun is at its most unforgiving. Set your alarm for an ungodly hour, chug some coffee, and hit the dune before the heat hits you. We got a late start and we’re almost the last people down, which meant we had many places to ourselves, but also were too hot.
- Wear appropriate footwear: And by “appropriate,” we mean “something that will prevent you from sinking knee-deep into the sand with every step.” Hiking boots, sneakers, or even sandals with good ankle support are all viable options. Just don’t try to climb Big Daddy in your flip-flops, unless you enjoy the feeling of hot sand between your toes and the sound of your children’s laughter as you struggle to keep up. My Converse took in buckets of sand.
- Pace yourself: Climbing a giant sand dune is not a race, unless you want to collapse from exhaustion halfway up and become a cautionary tale for other hikers. Take your time, take breaks when needed, and remember to breathe (even if the air is 90% sand).
- Enjoy the view: Once you reach the top of Big Daddy (and after you’ve caught your breath and stopped cursing the inventor of sand), take a moment to appreciate the stunning panoramic views of the desert. You’ll be rewarded with a sea of endless dunes, the distant mountains, and the profound realization that you are but a tiny speck in this vast, unforgiving landscape.
Deadvlei
After conquering Big Daddy, it’s time to descend into the eerie and hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei. This ancient clay pan is home to a collection of dead camel thorn trees, some of which are believed to be over 900 years old. The stark contrast of the blackened trees against the white clay pan and the towering orange dunes in the background makes for a photographer’s dream come true.
The area is a veritable playground for kids and they’ll be covered head-to-toe in dust. This may be where the heat starts to get to you. We couldn’t spend as much time here because, a rarity for us, we actually ran out of water (and we brought A LOT)!
Tips for Visiting Deadvlei:
- Bring plenty of water: As mentioned above. The heat in Sossusvlei is no joke, and Deadvlei offers little to no shade. Make sure you have enough water to keep everyone hydrated throughout your visit.
- Wear sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are non-negotiable in this desert landscape. Unless you want to spend your evenings nursing sunburns and listening to your kids complain about their scorched skin.
- Get creative with your photography: Deadvlei is a photographer’s playground, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your shots. Play with perspective, use your family members as props, and capture the otherworldly beauty of this unique landscape.
- Watch out for wildlife: While Deadvlei may seem lifeless, there are still some hardy creatures that call this place home. Keep an eye out for lizards, insects, and the occasional ostrich wandering through the clay pan.
Lodging at the Desert Grace
After a long day of hiking and exploring, you’ll be grateful for a comfortable place to rest your weary head. Enter Desert Grace by Gondwana, a luxurious lodge located just a short drive from Sossusvlei.
This stunning oasis offers a range of accommodations, from spacious rooms to private villas, each decorated in a chic, modern style that perfectly complements the rugged desert landscape. The lodge boasts room-specific swimming pools, a spa, and a restaurant serving up delicious meals to satisfy even the most famished of hikers.
But perhaps the most impressive feature of Desert Grace is its commitment to sustainability. The lodge uses solar power, recycles wastewater, and supports local conservation efforts to help preserve the fragile ecosystem of the Namib Desert.
Prices and Practical Information:
- Rooms at Desert Grace start at around $250 per night, depending on the season and availability.
- The lodge offers guided tours and activities, including sunrise hikes, hot air balloon rides, and star-gazing excursions. Prices vary, so be sure to check with the lodge for the most up-to-date information.
- If you’re self-driving to Sossusvlei, be prepared to pay park entry fees and vehicle permits. These can add up quickly, so budget accordingly.
- There are several other lodges and campsites in the area, ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Do your research and book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Conclusion
Congratulations, intrepid family! You’ve survived the scorching heat, the endless sand, and the existential dread of Sossusvlei. You’ve conquered Big Daddy, marveled at the haunting beauty of Deadvlei, and lived to tell the tale (and post the Instagram photos).
But in all seriousness, a trip to Sossusvlei is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you and your family for a lifetime. The raw, untamed beauty of the desert, the sense of accomplishment that comes from climbing a giant sand dune, and the memories of laughter (and a few tears) shared along the way – these are the things that make travel so rewarding.
So, as you sit back and reflect on your Sossusvlei adventure, pat yourself on the back for embracing the chaos, the challenges, and the sheer absurdity of dragging your family to one of the most remote corners of the earth. And start planning your next epic family vacation – because if you can handle Sossusvlei, you can handle anything.
Happy travels, and may the sand always be in your favor!
