The world’s highest sand dunes are said to be at Sossusvlei in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. In hues of orange, buttermilk, pumpkin and sienna, they are a spectacular and much-photographed sight. A Sossusvlei safari into Dead Vlei to see the ancient fossilised trees are possible, via pegged routes. The nearby Sesriem Canyon, although small, is also worth a visit.

Sossusvlei is one of the world’s most breathtaking, well-preserved and easily accessible desert landscapes. When exceptional rains fall, the Tsauchab River, breaking through the sand, flows all the way to Sossusvlei. The huge pan that is encircled by the towering dunes fills with water, attracting hundreds of flamingos and other waterbirds.

Sossusvlei is situated in the vast Namib-Naukluft Park, which is superb for hiking with a number of spectacular trails. It is ruggedly beautiful mountainous territory with plummeting ravines, crystal-clear rock pools and surprisingly abundant wildlife and vegetation given the harsh conditions. Geological history starts 1 000 to 2 000 million years ago. The Park is home to the unique Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra found only in Namibia and Southern Angola. This Park also features the small but fascinating Sesriem Canyon.