Foto: Dune 45 in Sossusvlei (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Namibia - We are woken up at quarter past five. Shortly after, at quarter to six, we stand in front of the entrance to Sossusvlei National Park. We are here to see the exceptionally high red sand dunes at sunrise. It’s actually strange that we are only allowed in at quarter to six. The dunes are about 50 kilometers further, and the first sun rays appear between half past six and seven. The gate should ideally open earlier. It took a while for everyone to get ready this morning, so we end up at the back of a long line of cars at the park entrance. The horizon is already starting to brighten, giving off a beautiful orange glow from the sun. Once inside the park, a caravan of cars speeds through, far exceeding the maximum speed limit of 60 kilometers per hour. We even get overtaken by the Djoser truck, while we are already driving at 120 km/h. By half past six, just before sunrise, we arrive at Dune 45. Dune 45 is the only sand dune in the National Park that is allowed to be climbed. Several people are already busy making the ascent. Encouraged by Thomas shouting “go-go-go,” we also run toward the dune. This haste wears us out after just a few dozen meters. Walking on sand is very tough; with every step, you sink back into the sand. The cold air and dust kicked up by earlier climbers make it even harder. With the first rays of sunshine, I slow down my pace. Halfway up, I take a break. I tell myself I won’t take another step upwards. But after catching my breath, I slowly start walking toward the top again. After all, you only get to be in Namibia once (though it doesn’t feel that way because the mountain sounds like a Dutch conversation). The climb up the dune is well worth it. From the top, we have a beautiful view over Sossusvlei and the surrounding sand dunes.
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