When it Comes to Red Sands, Think Namib Desert!

When you think of red deserts, the Namib Desert is likely the first that springs to mind.

Spanning over 2,000 kilometers along Namibia’s Atlantic coast and inland, this expansive desert offers a breathtaking beauty that’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight to behold!
Among travelers exploring Botswana, many feel compelled to extend their journey to Namibia, the neighboring country, and it’s easy to understand why.

While Namibia boasts numerous stunning attractions, one destination that consistently stands out, especially for those with limited time, is the striking red desert!

Namib Desert Mornings Are Remarkable, but Evenings Are Something Else!

Did you know that morning hues are particularly captivating in the red desert?
I used to think that the time of day wouldn’t make much difference… until I discovered otherwise.

Let’s compare with the following photos:

What causes this change, you might wonder?
Well, it’s essentially the same principle behind a spectacular sunset.
The sun emits colors like red, blue, and green.

Blue light has a shorter wavelength and scatters more easily, whereas red light has a longer wavelength and scatters less.
During the day when the sun is closer, the easily scattered blue light dominates our vision.
However, in the morning and evening when the sun is farther away, the easily scattered blue light fades away, leaving the lingering red hues for us to admire.

Furthermore, in the evening, the atmosphere accumulates more airborne particles and water vapor, allowing even more red light to pass through, intensifying the red hues further.
That’s why evenings are even more vibrant and enchanting, casting the dunes in a mesmerizing glow.

Welcoming the Desert Sunrise

To experience the morning splendor of the Namib Desert, you’ll want to enter the Namib-Naukluft Park right as the gates open, perfectly timed with sunrise.
Whether you head straight for Sossusvlei (Dead Vlei) or opt to climb Dune 45, the journey itself presents countless opportunities to marvel at the striking contrast of the crimson dunes.

Even at this early hour, you can savor the beauty, but for those eager to witness the sunrise from atop a dune, overnight stays within the park are necessary.
Ascending the dunes while the air is still cool, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sunrise that bathes the entire desert in a golden glow, creating an unforgettable moment.

However, weather conditions can sometimes play a role, but let’s embrace those moments for what they are and revel in the experience.