Sossusvlei sits in Namibia in the middle of a desert. And, everyone knows that deserts can be bleak, harsh, and even dangerous places. But, if you look for a bucket list destination that challenges your senses and your mind, then really, look no further. Read on to find out more.

The Sound of Silence

The first thing you notice in the deep Namib-Naukluft  desert isn’t what you see, but what you hear. When the wind drops, the silence feels heavy and profound. so that you can actually hear your own heartbeat.

That alone, brings visitors to Namibia a rare, meditative experience. In an instant, it strips away the noise of busy city living. All that exists under the blue shoulder of the sky is you. You, and the ancient spirit of the planet.

Incredible Beauty

The sheer beauty of the place is breathtaking as well. It’s not hard to imagine how perhpas millions of years went by and wind and rain created immense dunes. But actually experiencing them is something else.

If you don’t know, the dunes in the Sossusvlei area are some of the highest in the world. That’s impressive, but as the day ticks away, they change color and glow. Sometimes, they’re an intense, burnt-orange hue.

Get The Real-Feel

To get the real feel of the beauty of the colors, it’s definitely worth climbing the ridge of Big Daddy dune. Get there early in the morning to catch the start of the new day as the sun rises.

As it does, you’ll see how the light plays across the crests. A slow kaleidoscope of images assault your mind: from deep violet to a fiery red that feels almost otherworldly.

Incredible Surival

Despite the heat, wildlife survives in the harsh environment of the desert in Namibia. Sometimes, you might spot Oryx wandering into the shade of occasional trees. Where do they come from? Like desert phantoms, they come and go in a blink.

Ostriches visit the vlei for water, and dainty springbuck like to play there as the day cools down. What seems so incredible, is that despite the extremely harsh conditions, they somehow adapted and survive to breed another day.

The Oasis At Tsauchab

Sossusvlei isn’t the only place where you find water sources in the desert. And that’s because underground water exists. Often you’ll see green trees but no water. But it lurks there, waiting for the next rains to emerge and bring new life. For example the Tsauchab River occasionally brings life-giving water to the vlei.

Nearby, is the famous Deadvlei which really isn’t dead at all. Well, the skeletons of the camelthorn trees are dead. They stand like dark sculptures against blinding white sand in the heat of the day. But even there, if you look at your feet, the chances are good that you’ll see signs of wildlife. Tracks lead off in all directions. And listen out for the call of foraging Pale Chanting Goshawks.  

Finding Peace In Ancient Places

While it all sounds very bleak, the immensity, the ancient ambiance, the peace, and feeling at one with nature really justifies underlining it on your bucket list.

Did you ever experience the almost spiritual nature of being in the desert? Let us know in the comments below, and remember to come back here often for all your travel news and updates.