Morning in Sossusvlei
The name Sossusvlei is often used to refer to a large area in the Namib Nakluft Park, including famous locations and vistas such as Sesriem Canyon, Deadvlei, dunes 41, 45, Big Daddy, and Big Mama. Dunes are numbered based on approximately how far they are from the entrance gate. Sossusvlei however, is a large, white salt and clay pan surrounded by massive red sand dunes. The name Sossusvlei translates to “Dead-end Marsh”, vlei is a marsh in Afrikaans.
For the best light in this area, it is imperative that you stay inside the gates of the park. Only then are you allowed to drive to the dunes and photogenic locations an hour before sunrise and return an hour after sunset. All other visitors must wait at the gate that opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.