The Black Tree that tells a Story

Essay Writing Competition 2026
Category: 8 - 11 years
- Merit -

"Deadvlei: The Black Tree that tells a Story" by Elif Defne Diz from Turkey was chosen as commended essay in the Junior category 8 - 11 years.

This article was submitted in the Kids World Travel Guide Essay Competition 2026.

The Black Tree that tells a Story

Merhaba ! My name is Elif Defne. I am 8 years old and I am Turkish. Four years ago my family moved to South Africa. We lived there for 4 years and now we are happily back home in Türkiye.

On my eighth birthday we had a trip to Namibia, and that is where I found my personal wonder of the world "Deadvlei" near Sossusvlei. Namibia was so hot like Egypt's deserts. We put sunscreen all over our bodies, had our hats and long sleeves on. My dad drove a 4 by 4 car through the dunes. First, we climbed up the Big Daddy dune then numbers 40,41 till 45. The weather was so hot but there was no shadow.

All of a sudden, the ground became a white cracked clay. In the middle of this white cracked ground, there were black trees standing. These trees' name were called The Black Camel Thorns. They looked quite like strange tree skeletons. We stopped and looked at them. My dad and I took photos, my mom walked around them. It was like a white desert with no sands and water. How can it be possible that these trees are still there?

Thousand of years ago, Deadvlei was not dry. Instead of sands, dried trees and dried ponds there were animals and plants, trees with leaves, ponds with frogs and fishes. Even frogs could jump to catch flies to eat. The river called Tsauchab brought water and it was a green place. Camel Thorn trees grew happily with green leaves and strong branches. Then the weather changed. It kept getting dried and dried up. Big red dunes moved and blocked the river. The trees couldn't get water and they started to die every each day. But because of very hot and dry weather this place became a desert so the trees just got frozen. Also their colour changed to black.

We learned at school that climate changes. It might have happened in the past and it will in the future. I was both happy and sad, when I saw those black trees. We must take care our world so more trees and beautiful places stay alive.

I love discovering new places, as I lived in two different countries. Every place has a story just like my family has a story of moving and going back home. I dream that when I grow up, children of the world will be able to visit wonders like Deadvlei. I hope we all look after the earth so that the climate does not change too fast and more trees and animals can live happily. One day, I want to go back and show my kids these amazing trees.

Congratulations on your lovely story, Elif Defne! Thanks for sharing your travel memories of this fascinating landmark in Namibia, along with your commendable message with us! Well done!

Elif Defne, 8 years, attends Gokkusagi Schools in Turkey. Turkish as home language and English as second or additional language