Namib Desert

Namib Desert is a vast area of huge sand dunes stretching from the Atlantic Ocean deep inland and into rocky desert to the north. The dunes have formed over millions of years. As with much of Namibia, the extent of the dunes is best seen from the air.

The dunes originate from Kalahari sand carried by the Orange River into the Atlantic Ocean. Carried north along the coastline by the current, waves and surf bring the sand back ashore. It is blown back inland by the prevailing westerly wind to create the world's biggest dunes.

Resulting star dunes are both massive and constantly changing as fresh sand arrives. Regular sea fog drifts across the desert to support the hardiest of creatures. Desert beetle are joined by occasional oryx, springbok, ostrich and black-backed jackal.

It is advisable to allow at least two days in case of sand storms which can blow up at any time to reduces visibility to zero.