Hello and thanks for stopping by my article on the incredible destination of Deadvlei. I’m Soso (@soso_aroundtheworld) and I was born and raised in Georgia – one of the world’s most historical and beautiful countries.
I have loved travel and geography since childhood and I always dreamed of visiting different places and meeting people. At the age of 16, I achieved a dream of mine: visiting Turkey. Since that trip, I haven’t stopped traveling.
17 Unforgettable Days in Namibia
Namibia was on my bucket list for a while. I love Africa, it’s so interesting. However, Namibia is doubly interesting. This country doesn’t look like other African countries because it has unique landscapes and is more developed than many of its neighbors. You can discover some brilliant wildlife, and crazy landscapes in the desert (like Deadvlei) and by the ocean.
There are thousands of reasons why I traveled here – and for these reasons I wanted to stay for a decent amount of time, hence I stayed for 17 days. It was an unforgettable trip! I traveled around by car, starting in the south and then I headed north. I visited the Quiver Tree Forest, Kolmanskop, Sandwich Harbor, Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and Etosha National Park.
Transporting to Another Planet at Deadvlei
If anyone is wondering what it’s like to be transported to another planet, then one must visit Deadvlei. It’s a masterpiece of nature. The way Deadvlei unfolds is miraculous – especially during sunrise. Just imagine red dunes of sand all around you and a shining clay white pan floor.
You might also see an ostrich crossing or an Oryx running in some direction. After a long trip to Deadvlei, you will leave the car and continue by foot for a decent while. Passing sand dunes and a couple of incredible vistas, next appears white soil with these remarkable dried trees. The blue sky beating down on the landscape creates an unbelievable scene.
I remember thinking that I was some sort of movie character roaming around a blockbuster set. Seeing this destination in photos and then actually being there is truly amazing. Everyone should make a visit here!
When it comes to taking photos, you don’t need to be a professional or even bring expensive camera gear. Just point your camera phone or camera and nature will do the rest. You will leave with spectacular photos.
Best Things To Do & Where to Stay
One of the best things to do in Deadvlei is to hike around the dunes for amazing views and to take photos with different perspectives. I recommend renting an off-road vehicle for your trip (or booking a tour that has one of these vehicles sorted for you) because the last couple of miles are difficult without one. You can either plan your own trip or book a tour.
That’s what I loved most about Namibia – I could plan my own tour and be my own guide, which was refreshing. I recommend everyone else do the same. The only challenge will be the weather, so make sure you pack appropriate clothing and water/snacks as the conditions get very hot.
For accommodation, there are lodges in the area but they’re not cheap. Outside the park you can find cheap hotels and lodges. However, let me tell you what I did. Before touring Namibia, I paid for a camping spot in the park and spent the night on top of my vehicle in a tent. I saved money and had a pleasant experience. The night sky was filled with many shiny stars!
Tips for your Visit to Deadvlei
Anyone who decides to travel to Namibia should opt for a self-driving tour. Even though I have traveled to 48 countries, I have never had such an incredible experience as I did in Namibia. The adventure was epic!
If you want to save some money on your trip, you can always rent a car which has a tent above it for sleeping or a campervan. Staying in a campground only costs around $10 – $15 per night and that is almost 10 times cheaper than staying in a hotel or lodge. This way you can spend more money on activities, food and transportation costs.
As for the parking at Deadvlei, it opens at 7am. I suggest coming here early in the morning and dedicating an entire day – also including Dune 45, Sossusvlei on your itinerary. This is one of the largest and most photogenic sand dunes in the world. It’s beautiful to see at sunrise or sunset, so most people visit at these times. Making it up to the top of Dune 45 is unreal.
All in all, Deadvlei was incredible and it made an impression on me from the very first moment. I recall traveling by car, walking a fair way and when I passed the last dune I saw Deadvlei. It was such a magnificent sight. I stopped for a moment, looked at the view and couldn’t believe what I was seeing. I thought to myself: “Is this reality? Am I really here at Deadvlei”?
