Deadvlei, Clay pan in Namib Desert, Namibia
Deadvlei is a white clay pan set within the Namib Desert, where blackened acacia trees stand dead against towering sand dunes that rise about 400 meters high. The landscape creates a striking composition of contrasting colors and forms.
This clay depression formed roughly 900 years ago when the Tsauchab River flooded the area and created pools that allowed acacia trees to grow. The river eventually shifted course, the pools dried up, and the trees died, leaving behind what we see today.
The place draws photographers and artists who come to capture the sharp contrasts of black trees, white clay, and rust-colored dunes. People travel here specifically for these striking visual compositions that are hard to find elsewhere.
A short walk of roughly one kilometer from the parking area leads through desert terrain to reach the site. Bring plenty of water, sturdy footwear, and sun protection, as conditions are extremely hot and dry.
The extreme dryness of this place has prevented the trees from decomposing, preserving their blackened forms largely unchanged for over 600 years. Some of these dead trees are older than 600 years, offering a remarkable window into how nature persists under harsh conditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
