Big Mamma Dune Travel Guide: Top Sights in Namibia, Tours & Travel

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Big Mamma Dune- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Namibia; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 3 hours

Big Mamma Dune is a prominent star dune in the Sossusvlei area of the ancient Namib Desert, part of Namibia's vast Namib-Naukluft National Park. Rising to more than 200 meters—comparable to a 60-story building—this dune boasts oxidized, iron-rich sand that gives it a vivid red coloration. Its distinctive radiating arms are created by multidirectional winds that have shaped and built up the dune over millions of years. Climbing Big Mamma offers rewarding 360° views across Sossusvlei's sweeping dune landscape, including sights of Dead Vlei's bleached clay pan and occasional desert wildlife like ostriches, springboks, and oryx. The ascent is notably steeper than that of Dune 45, so early-morning departures are advised for cooler conditions and dramatic sunrise light.

Operators offering tours in Namibia

Attractions in Sossusvlei

Deadvlei

4.8

Big Daddy

Dune 45

4.8

Hidden Vlei

4.6

Reviews of Big Mamma Dune

Willem Cronje

5
Reviewed: 2023-06-21

Only accessible with a 4x4. Park by the edge of the parking and hike towards the Big Mama dune. Take water and sunscreen
Travis Davids

5
Reviewed: 2021-11-14

If you climbed Dune 45 you are well prepared for mama. It's more challenging than Dune 45 and a challenge you should definitely consider. The view and just the incredible colors of the surrounding landscape makes this worth it! Try and go early! Enjoy! I saw a lot of Oryxs below the dune enjoying some shade from the sun. We even found an entire Oryx skeleton.
Vladimir Solovyov

5
Reviewed: 2019-03-02

My first look at the Namib heart. Good for the first ascent of the dune. If the sand is not too hot, you can go barefoot. Excellent panoramic view in all directions at 360 degrees, both in the evening and in the morning. It is a special pleasure to run down from the top of the dune with giant steps. You can try to move down on any suitable board or tray.
Daniel Hermes

5
Reviewed: 2019-02-27

Gets very steep close to the top. Rewards you with a really nice view on top though, definitely worth the hike! Be sure to walk up Big Mama early and if possible in the shade, otherwise it'll be a real challenge! Also bring enough water.
Silvia Salvadori

5
Reviewed: 2018-08-23

Climb recommend, not long and very nice view! Fun to run down it