The Mummy, the Prince of Persia, and yes even Aladdin, are all set within harsh and unforgiving desert terrain, where the sun blisters down while they race against the clock amid sand dunes. In all of the above examples there is adventure afoot, but each of these movies adhered to strict guidelines with how to behave appropriately in the terrain (train shoot-outs notwithstanding). When exploring deserts and dunes, make certain you are aware of the different laws of the area, and avoid breaking them. Many people often forget just looking at the endless sand around them that there is a fragile ecosystem at work. And yes, the area is alive, though it may not appear so at first glance.

Some interesting facts:

The Namib desert’s name comes from Nàmá means the “vast place”, and is presumed to be the oldest desert in the world, having endured arid conditions for over 55 million years. The Damara Tern exclusively breeds along the Namibian coastline, and it’s dangerously close to becoming extinct. As they breed between November/December, which is the height of the tourist season, those who indulge in off road driving are putting this rare bird at risk, as it hides its nest between the roads and the coastline.

Dunes that have those easily spotted, scarce patches of green are incredibly fragile, so much so that even footsteps can kill or irreparably damage the plants and weaken the dunes. These plants are important as they anchor the sand, and prevent it from eroding too fast, and being blown inland.

When along the West Coast, take note of the West Coast Recreation Area. This area is covered with brittle gypsum crusts and lichen fields. Some of these lichen take over 100 years to properly form, and in a single thoughtless action, you can destroy hundreds of years of hard won growth. Your tire prints will also remain for up to 80 years.

Coastal dunes carry far more than just your run-of-the-mill beach sand, such as the dunes found in northern KwaZulu-Natal. It was only recently discovered that these are part of a gigantic freshwater filtration system, with rainwater that falls on the top level only trickling out decades later – beat that Bonaqua!

Around the Cape St Francis coastline the dunes carry important remnents of middens (olden day garbage heaps), which provide insight into how our ancestors developed, and the archaeological traces they left behind.

Driving along or over beach dunes also creates vibrations which have an incredibly negative affect on mussels and other macrofauna.

Tips:

When 4×4-ing ensure your vehicle is in 4WD when on sand, and deflate the tires slightly to maintain traction, as well as a slow but constant speed to continue momentum. Remember to reinflate them again once you’re back on hard road.

Always carry a spare tire, water, food and a blanket in your boot so if you’re stranded and two tires have blown (instead of your average one), you can be comfortable until you’re rescued.

If you’re stuck for an extended period of time, make the best use of your resources, such as using the blanket as a sunshade in the day, and a comforter at night when the temperature drops. Better yet, have a full vehicle emergency kit in your boot.

Never, ever leave your vehicle if stranded, you’re more likely to die from exposure and wandering around aimlessly, than if you’d stayed put.

If you feel the urge to head into the desert, and shun modern means of getting there, be aware that there are camel trekking adventure excursions into the Sahara Desert, which can be a lot of fun, and make for some great photo opportunities.

A prime sand boarding spot can be found at the Agulhas Dunes, or for those who want their pick of ‘sloaps’ head over to Namibia. Raymond Inixab has a school in Nambia and has taught many celebrities, including Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Read some of his sandboarding tips. If you’re going sand boarding remember to wear lots of sunscreen, keep your knees bent, and have fun!

Hidden coves and less popular beaches in Cape Town

With all that talk of sand and the multitude of warm and sunny days ahead of us, many will want to head to the beach on their holiday. But being one of 1000 people, and having to negotiate for a spot to put your towel down is never fun. Below are some less crowded spots to check out (although swimming in these areas isn’t a guarantee):

• Misty Cliffs and Scarborough both have wonderful, less populated beaches. The main visitors to each are the residents in the area, so pack a picnic basket and bring the family along.
• Miller’s Point is an ‘almost’ secret spot, though close to tourist attractions, it’s not often frequented. There is a small beach hidden below the Black Marlin restaurant which has a tiny tidal pool, making it perfect for children. The boulders along the far shore are great for climbing, and you can watch the fishing boats launch and bring back a fresh catch daily.
• Long beach and Kommetjie beach are both popular to a degree. You’ll never have to fight for towel space here, although you may have to hop around to avoid Bluebottles. Surfing here is also quite common with easy waves rolling in.
• Blaauwberg beach seems to go on forever, and though often windy, it has a stunning view of Table Mountain. With some little cafe’s and restaurants along it, you can quickly change plans and enjoy some drinks or sundowners if the weather is not on your side.
• Waters Edge beach is another ‘almost’ secret spot. Well hidden and off the beaten path near Seaforth beach, it may not be the most attractive beach due to the amounts of kelp that gathers on shore, but it has lots of character, with small rock pools scattered around. This is perfect for exploring with kids, as you’re liable to find starfish, anemones, and even a small crab or two.
• Langebaan Lagoon, although a bit windy is another popular spot. There’s lots of open spaces, and very few waves so children can frolick safely.

Are there any other secret beaches that you’ve found around Cape Town, or further up country? What made them so appealing? If you have a personal story about trekking thought deserts and dunes, or know someone actively involved in their conservation, let us know. From personal experience, the campsite at Millers Point, below the Black Marlin restaurant is wonderful. Plenty of space, beautiful sea views and a bench on the edge of the grass, overlooking the cape coastline. If you’re looking to visit South Africa, then see our wide variety of accommodation options.

Main image credited to Michael L. Baird (Flickr)