Best time to travel to Namibia

Wind Cathedral in Namibia

Natural wonders are hidden in various places and desert is not an exception

Best time: March–November

Wind Cathedral
Wind Cathedral
Wind Cathedral
Wind Cathedral
Wind Cathedral

Nature has formed lots of unique sites for us to marvel and Wind Cathedral is one of such spots. Located in the Sossusvlei region of the Namib Desert, it is a huge area of sand formation series. Wind Cathedral is believed to be 60-80 million years old and has been formed due to the Atlantic Ocean drifts, which pushed the sand. And even now they are constantly changing and moving due to the shifting of the wind.

The Wind Cathedral features transverse, star, and barchans dunes. Many of them are around 200 m tall and the highest one, around 380 m high, is called ‘Big Daddy’. The dunes have a myriad range of colours, which mainly vary from pink to orange. One more unique fact about these dunes is that they can keep the moisture and create specific water basins that are separated from other water bodies. Here you can also watch wild animals and birds. During September and October, they are more visible, as they move towards water bodies.

This incredible sight is a true natural wonder that attracts tourists from around the world. This is also a beloved photographers’ sight.

We recommend visiting the Wind Castle between March–November, as December-February are too hot with over 50 °C and it might be too challenging to climb around.

Practical info

When is the best time of year to explore Wind Cathedral?

The optimal time to visit Wind Cathedral is from March to November. It is not recommended to visit from December to February due to the excessive heat that can go beyond 50°C, which makes it difficult to explore. From September to October, you can easily see animals around this stunning landscape because they come closer to water bodies during this period. The weather is pleasant, adding to the charm of the surroundings. Show more

What is the location of Wind Cathedral?

Wind Cathedral is situated in the Namib Desert's Sossusvlei region in Namibia. Nature has created this magical work of art through millions of years of oceanic drifts. It is an ideal place for photographers and conservation enthusiasts to admire the beauty and explore the wonders of nature. The sand dunes, constantly changing over time, range in height from 200m tall to the highest at 380m tall, which is called 'Big Daddy.' Visitors are advised to use a licensed guide to explore the area. Show more

How old are the Wind Cathedral sand formations?

Wind Cathedral's sand formations are believed to be approximately 60-80 million years old, shaped by the powerful forces of wind erosion over time. The range of these sand dunes is vast and reaches a height of 380m at the highest, 'Big Daddy.' These unique sand formations, amongst other things, create water basins that are isolated from other water bodies, providing a visually appealing and serene atmosphere for visitors. Show more

What is the name of the tallest sand dune at Wind Cathedral?

The highest sand dune in Wind Cathedral is named 'Big Daddy.' The stunning view from the 380m tall dune will leave you breathless. The sand dunes' colours vary from pink to orange, providing a magnificent display. Water pools form in specific basin-like formations that add to the overall beauty of Wind Cathedral's landscape. Show more

What types of sand dunes can be seen at Wind Cathedral?

Wind Cathedral showcases three types of sand dunes: transverse, star, and barchans dunes. The transverse dunes are the most common and are formed in a straight line across the direction of the wind. The star dunes, on the other hand, are pyramid-shaped and radiate in various directions. Finally, the barchan dunes are crescent-shaped with horns that face downwind, highlighting the wind's direction. The movement of these dunes is consistent, changing their shapes and sizes, and exposes different angles of the landscape, making it an exceptional site everytime. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin