This area is an exceptionally beautiful place, which offers a natural beauty so overwhelming that it is an experience that cannot be forgotten. It is one of the most exciting photographic destinations in the world. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. The dunes are seen best from the air and are referred to as star dunes because of their four or five sinuous crests which meet at the highest point. When the winds are exceptionally strong they cause the dunes to 'smoke', the result of whirlwinds of sand coiling upwards on the windward side of the dune and flying over the crest. Striking features in the Sossusvlei environs are the white deflationary clay-floor pans, which occur between the dunes. The most spectacular of these is Dead Pan, a vast expanse of bleached and cracked mud presided over by the skeletons of ancient camel-thorn trees. <b>Seasons</b> The best time to go is in the dry winter months from Apr-Sep, as days are pleasant with temperatures averaging at around 25 degrees Celsius. Nights, however, can be very cold. Summer (Oct0Mar) can be very hot with temperatures soaring to above 40 degrees Celsius. <b>Wildlife</b> Sossusvlei is not so much a wildlife destination but a "landscape" destination. 200 bird species have been recorded in the region. Wildlife that you may see includes oryx, springbok, kudu, zebra, steenbok, jackal and baboon.