Sossusvlei, Clay pan valley in Namib Desert, Namibia.
Sossusvlei is a valley in the Namib Desert surrounded by enormous red sand dunes rising up to 300 meters high. The flat floor consists of white clay and salt deposits accumulated in this basin.
The Tsauchab River shaped this valley over millions of years, creating a depression that collects water during rare rainfall. This long-term geological process demonstrates how water carved the landscape.
The name comes from Afrikaans words: 'sossus' describes a dead end, while 'vlei' refers to a shallow water collection. Local communities have used these terms for generations to identify this type of desert basin.
Entry is through Sesriem gate, and visits are limited to daylight hours between sunrise and sunset year-round. Arriving early in the morning helps visitors enjoy the best light and avoid the heat.
After heavy rains, the valley fills with water and creates a mirror effect against the bright orange dunes surrounding it. These rare moments when the Tsauchab River flows transform the white floor into a temporary lake.
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