Dune 45 | Walvis Bay

Information

Landmark: Dune 45
City: Walvis Bay
Country: Namibia
Continent: Africa

Dune 45, Walvis Bay, Namibia, Africa

Dune 45 is a star dune composed of 5-million-year-old sand located at kilometer 45 on the road between the Sesriem gate and Sossusvlei. It is situated within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, approximately 355 kilometers south of Walvis Bay.

Visual Characteristics

The dune stands 170 meters high and is characterized by a remarkably symmetrical, sinuous shape and intense red-orange iron-oxide coloration. Its surface consists of fine-grained quartz sand that forms sharp, wind-sculpted ridges. Unlike the larger dunes further west, Dune 45 is partially stabilized at its base by scattered camel thorn trees (Acacia erioloba).

Location & Access Logistics

Access is via the main tarred road from the Sesriem entrance. The dune is exactly 45 kilometers west of the gate, with a paved parking area located directly at its base. No 4x4 vehicle is required to reach this site, making it accessible to all standard passenger cars. There is no public transport; visitors must use private vehicles or organized tours.

Historical & Ecological Origin

This dune is part of the Namib Sand Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was formed by terrestrial sand originating from the Orange River, which was moved by longshore drift and then blown inland. The red color indicates a high degree of oxidation, signifying that the sand has been in the desert environment for millions of years.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is climbing the narrow ridge to the summit for a view of the Tsauchab River valley. It is the most photographed dune in the world due to its accessibility and aesthetic proportions. Walking along the crest takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes for an average hiker.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The parking area features basic wooden benches and a few shaded spots provided by camel thorn trees. There are no restrooms, water stations, or food vendors at the site; the nearest facilities are at the Sesriem gate. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally unavailable or extremely weak.

Best Time to Visit

Sunrise is the most critical time for visiting, as the low light creates a sharp contrast between the illuminated red face and the pitch-black shadow on the leeward side. Photography is best during the first hour of daylight. June through August offers the most stable temperatures for climbing.

Facts & Legends

The dune is named "45" simply because it is located 45 kilometers from the Sesriem gate. A specific tip for hikers: because this dune is composed of particularly fine sand, it is easier to climb in the early morning when the sand is still cool and slightly more compact from overnight moisture.