Located in
Namibia :: Namib-Naukluft
:: Sesriem Area
Category:
Attraction :: Conservation
The ancient sand dunes of Sossusvlei forms part of the Namib Sand Sea World Heritage site (http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1430) and travellers are reminded to minimise their impact on the environment when visiting this eco-sensitive area by adhering to a few simple guidelines:
• Stay on the main trails rather than walk criss-cross over the sensitive vegetation areas – they may seem bare and lifeless, but many plants remain dormant until the first rains.
• The “lifeless” trees in Dead Vlei are preserved by the harsh, dry climate and are estimated to be about 900 years old. Do not damage them by climbing on them, or break branches off for firewood or keepsakes.
• The red dunes in the area has been formed over millions of years. Limit the shifting of sand down the dunes by following the trails of others, rather than sliding or running down, taking half the dune down with you.
Sossusvlei is without a doubt one of Namibia's biggest and most renowned tourist attractions. The Sossusvlei dunes are regarded as some of the highest in the world and Deadvlei is an extremely popular photographic valley within Sossusvlei. It is best to visit Sossusvlei early in the morning when the red colour of the dunes are strongest and brightest.
PERMITS:
Entry fees/permits are payable at Sesriem Gate/Sesriem Reception. Please do not drive off the road.