Not far from the high orange sand dunes of Sossusvlei is the Sesriem Canyon which is often overlooked. But what a change in scenery! Forget the orangy sand dunes, this is a completely different landscape. I could not believe there was such a radical change just a few kilometers further. A nice short stop.
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INFO & PLANNING TIPS - SESRIEM CANYON
The Sesriem Canyon is a 1km long and 30m deep gorge carved 2 millions of years ago by the Tsauchab River. Every turn reveals interesting shapes and rocks and the different sedimentary layers. The canyon is only two to three metres wide, and has a portion that permanently contains water, which many animals use. It is a nice short walk but of course nothing in comparison to the Fish river canyon.
TIPS FOR TRAVEL PLANNING ADDICTS - Sesriem Canyon
Getting to Sesriem Canyon
- 4.5km from the entrance gate of the Namib-Naukluft National Park
- 330 km South West of Windhoek
Visiting Sesriem Canyon
- Less than hour is enough to plan to have a look at the canyon, the walk is easy
- if you are short in time, I do not recommend the stop. There are many Namibian features more impressive
- Facility: parking
- By the Sesriem gate, hot air balloons depart in the early morning, providing scenic flights over the Sossusvlei dunes.
- More information on the Namibian Tourism Board blog
Sesriem canyon from above
At first we arrive and approached the canyon from above. This is pretty good.
The curves of the Sesriem canyon
I enjoyed the narrow path in the Sesriem canyon with many curves and the sedimentary layers to observe.
Baboons an Sesriem Canyon
On top of that a group of Savannah Baboons was spying on us from one side of the canyon. It was really funny to observe them observing us.
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Discover more things to do with photos and planning information in my online Namibia Travel Guide.
Unique shape, don't you think?