Climbing the curvy orange dunes of the Namib is a Sossusvlei must, providing access to the best possible panoramic views for those not splashing out on a hot air balloon or light aircraft flight. Dune 45 is a famous one, a huge peak roughly 100m high outside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, where you are likely to have company unless you get there extremely early. There are then various dunes to choose from close to the main car parking area of Sossusvlei, where the most renowned pans and vleis are found.

Our favourite climb is to the top of the towering dune next to Dead Vlei, where the considerable effort is rewarded with sensational views over the dried up lake bed and its dead trees below. Even more fulfilling is the run down the dune at top speed onto the vlei, a far quicker and less exerting process than climbing to the top! Our major piece of advice if you are keen to tackle a dune is to avoid the hottest times and get there in the early morning or late afternoon.