ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE: HOW TO BEST VISIT SOSSUSVLEI, NAMIBIA

Last Updated on 25th June 2024 by Bejal

Sossusvlei is located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park in the South West of Namibia and makes up the world’s oldest desert dating back 55 million years. The Namibia Desert can however be quite overwhelming when trying to plan how to best visit Sossusvlei as it is very remote, despite being Namibia’s most popular destination.The area is known world-wide by its red-orange dunes and white dead pan spaces which can be accessed via the very small town of Sesriem. If you’re planning a visit to this picture-postcard destination, read on for things to see during your visit, places to stay and personal tips

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Getting to experience the sunrise, walking the dunes and spotting the wildlife, whether you decide to do this on foot, in a 4WD or with a birdseye view, is truly spectacular. Sossusvlei is an iconic destination that simply does not disappoint, in fact it maybe even better than you thought possible.

Sossusvlei’s changing colours of the desert as well as how it differs from day to day is truly a sight vistors cannot forget. It’s no wonder this area is the most popular tourist attraction in Namibia. This guide aims to provide all of the necessary information to allow curious travellers the best possible visit to Sossusvlei, making it as simple and seamlessly as possible.

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Where is Sossusvlei Located?

Sossusvlei is situated approximately 350 km South West of the capital city, Windhoek and positioned in Southwestern Namibia. Sitting in the impressive Namib-Nauklauft National Park which is defined by the large red and orange sand dunes and the acclaimed clay pan, known as Deadvlei.

Be-lavie Tip: If you’re taking a road trip around Namibia, it’s good to note, that from Windhoek it should take no more than 6-8 hours travel time to get to Sossusvlei. It is also around the same time to travel from Swakopmund.

When is the Best Time to Visit Sossusvlei?

Sossusvlei is blessed with around 300 days of sunshine, making it a great place to visit year round. However, the area is much more comfortable to explore between the months of May-October as the temperatures are a little cooler and bearable, making this the best time to visit Sossusvlei.

It’s good to note that school holidays in Southern Africa are classed as peak travel periods which will essentially make it pretty difficult to book your preferred accommodation or camp site options as they will fill up in advance.

Be-lavie Tips: When considering the best time to visit Sossusvlei, please note, Southern African school holidays typically fall around, a two-week break in March/April, a three-week holiday in June/July, A one-week break in September/October, around five to six weeks in December/January.

How Long To Stay in Sossusvlei

A good length of time to stay in the area is around three days. In this time you can easily see the main points of interest as well as use the time to relax from your journey and well as prepare for your onward travels, especially if you are self-driving.

Related Article: How to Plan the Best Self-Drive Namibia Itinerary

How To Get To Sossusvlei

Self Drive 

This is by far the best option and the most flexible, especially if you’re combining Sossusvlei as part of a Namibia road-trip. As Sossusvlei is located approximately 350 km from Windhoek, around six to eight hours (leaving a day for the entire journey is sufficient).

When it comes to car hire, it is possible to rent a two wheel drive (2WD) but we’d recommend a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) or 4WD to make the journey a lot easier and more comfortable. Some parts of the route can be quite slippery and unstable. Prepare yourself to drive through a multitude of terrains including several depths of sand.

Related Article: What You Need to Know About Driving in Namibia.

Best Route To Take From Windhoek To Sossusvlei

Windhoek – B1 to Rehoboth – C24 to Solitaire via Nachos  and Spreetshoogte Pass- C19 to Sesriem

This is the simplest road to follow but a 4WD is needed and make all the difference.

If you are planning to travel; to Swakopmund as we did after Sossusvlei, it’s approximately 350 km and it’s best to leave five to six hours time  for a comfortable and relaxed journey.

Related Article: How to Spend 24 Hours in Namibia’s Capital, Windhoek

Be-lavie Tip: If self-driving, make a stop at Solitaire to fill up on fuel but also try the local coffee and the famous apple pie whilst enjoying some downtime before your onward journey.

Book An Organised Tour

Self-driving is not going to be for everyone so unless you have the budget to cover a Namibia road trip by charter flights as each major district will have a small air strip, (super expensive option) or you can hire a driver (will most certainly increase your budget) then booking onto a small group organised tour is a fantastic option.

10-Day Namibia Highlights Tour With Lodging From Windhoek

This tour involves pick-up and drop off back to Windhoek and incorporates ten days of seeing the best of Namibia with an English speaking guide and very comfortable lodging options. Dinner is included in many stays as well as excursions which makes this a perfect itinerary if you don’t wish to drive.

Things You Need to Know To Best Visit Sossusvlei

It will come as no surprise that Sossusvlei is Namibia’s most popular tourist attraction but if you’re expecting to see hoards of crowds and queue in long queues, you will be surprised. It feels very remote even when there is a steady stream of visitors

The famous Big Daddy Dune. Dune 45, Deadvlei and Hiddenvlei are located in the Namibia desert which stretch over 2000 km right along the Atlantic Coast of Angola, Namibia and South Africa. The area is very remote but really quite straight forward to visit. This is down to a dried riverbed which has formed a lane through it which in turn has made way for a road like stretch through the dunes.

Be-lavie Tip: The Sossusvlei entrance opens at 07:00 am everyday at sunrise. It’s best to be here a little before sunrise and join the queue of vehicles. There’ s no need to get to the gates super early as once the rangers open the gates everyone can head straight in. Park fees are usually paid on exit and not entry but you can buy a permit the day before should you wish, especially if you are arriving at sunrise (we were advised this is a good option if you are going early doors)

Facilities At Sossusvlei

The area after the gates into the park are mainly huts for park rangers and wardens which are also where tickets and permits can be purchased from. If you are on a tour here from a lodge then this will be taken care of by your guides and drivers.

There are bathroom facilities close to the main car park areas. They are open air but private with a wooden gate around them. Best to be prepared before you climb the dunes as you’ll be no doubt consuming lots of water.

Sossusvlei Entry and Access Permits

If you’re self driving inside the Namib-Nauklauft National Park, you will require a permit to get in. Buy your permit via the park office, inside of the Sesriem gates. these cost around USD $5 per person per day for non-residents of the country. There’s an additional USD $10 per vehicle.

 If you’re aiming to make it at the park for sunrise then purchasing your permit the day before, as mentioned previously is a good idea.

Be-lavie Tip: You can only enter the park between sunrise and sunset if you are not staying with the appropriated park boundaries.

Mobile Telephone Reception 

Sesriem and individual lodges tend to have have 3G reception (this was certainly the case in 2022, during our visit) as well as WIFI however outside in the Namib-Nauklauft park there will be no reception whatsoever. Put your phone in a safe place

Be-lavie Tip: Ensure any Google maps you may need have been downloaded in advance of visiting the park

The Best Things To Do In Sossusvlei

Activities from Lodges – What You Need To Know

If you are self-driving, then you can easily visit most places in Sossusvlei solo but it’s good to note that if you are staying at one of the lodges in the area, all activities can be booked by them and you can join in with guided small group or private excursions through the lodge itself. The price of each tour generally includes transport to and from the destination, a local guide who doubles up as the deriver, lunch out in the desert. You can sit back and relax and let someone else do the driving. 

This is actually a great way to see the points of interest as the itinerary is pretty relaxed with lots of time to wander and do what you fancy with the added bonus of having someone do the driving and direct you to exactly where you need to be. If you are short of time this is  a great option. You’ll be guaranteed to have the best Sossusvlei visit with no extra logistical hassle.

The prices may be a little higher and it will involve early starts, such as getting to the National Park Gates when they open – but this is all in your favour as you’ll be amongst the first to see some fantastic sights.

The small group size also means you’ll be ale to meet some like-minded travellers. With a local guide also means you’ll hear authentic stories.

The guides will ensure you’re back at the lodge at a decent hour to still enjoy afternoon tea and head out for a sundowner drive too.

We opted to stay at The Desert Homestead Lodge where sundowner drives, horse-riding, hiking and many other activities could be arranged as well as the dunes of Sossusvlei, Sesriem Canyon, Home air balloon flights as well as romantic private excursions.

#No 1 The Sossusvlei Dunes

It’s no secret, you come to Sossusvlei to see the dunes, they are your number one reason for coming, see for yourself if those red hued photos you see actually live up to the real-life ever-changing sand dunes of Sossusvlei. 

If you are taking a road trip and have your own car, going to see the dunes is pretty straightforward and the majority of dunes of interest can be accessed via the paved road from the small town of Sesriem.

You can use any type of car to drive from Sesriem to the Sossusvlei car park however, the portion from the Sossusvlei parking area will require a 4WD. If you are not on an organised tour or don’t want to drive the more sandier journey, then you can always use  the shuttle service. If you fancy walking then it will take approximately 90 minutes

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Dunes?

The best time would be first thing in the morning when the gate of the Namib-Nauklauft National Park opens or later in the afternoon right through to sunset (keep an eye on closing times though!). The main reason for this is the dunes are at their brightest at this time and the heat and humidity is a little less earlier in the day.

Dune 45

This is the most photographed and is located about 45km from Sesriem via a paved road.

You can climb the 170 m high dune, but definitely do it first thing in the morning when it’s not too hot as it really is pretty hard work otherwise. The dune is a pretty easy climb.  The views once you reach the top are incredible.

If you’re not a morning person, then plan to go late afternoon as the dune has a shadow in the late afternoon light which is great for a photography perspective.

• Location: Dune 45, Sossusvlei
• Approximate time to climb: 40-60 mins

Be-lavie Fun fact: It’s called Dune 45 as its located 45 km from the Sesriem Gate.

Big Daddy Dune

Big Daddy is the second highest dune in Sossusvlei, standing at 325 metres  high. The highest peak is known as Dune 7 and measures 388 metres in height.

When the entrance opens to Sossusvlei via Sesriem, head straight to Big daddy first as the climb will be a lot more comfortable plus it has the best view. It is pretty hard going to climb as each step you take, especially at the steepest points can feel like taking two steps back. You can access Big Daddy from the parking area. But keep on at it and you will soon get into the swing.

The hike up Big daddy takes around 1 hour and I found it much easier to do in bare feet however the sand can be pretty warm. We kept our trainers on as even at 7am it was pretty hot. In total leave around two and a half hours to hike up the dune, enjoy the views at the top and then run or slide back down facing Deadvlei with some time to explore the dead plan.

• Location: Big Daddy, Sossusvlei
• Approximate time to climb: 1 hour

Be-lavie Tip: Hiking Big daddy is no mean feat so take plenty of water in a back pack and sunscreen too

#No 2 Experience the Arid landscapes of Deadvlei & Hiddenvlei

Deadvlei

The first sight of Deadvlei (meaning ‘Dead Marsh’) is usually seen when emerging over the lip of Big Daddy Dune and seeing a white clay pan known . It’s known for its 900 year old fossilised Acacia tress dotted around the pan with differing shades of red sand dunes surrounding.

It’s quite overwhelming just absorbing the sheer size of the dead pan area and its landscape.

Deadvlei once had a river flowing through it which flooded the area on occasions. The water allowed the camel-thorn trees to survive, which now resemble skeletons in the pan. Some of the trees in the pan are bending over to the side whilst others form fork-like structures against the vibrant orange and red dunes which contrast against the bright blue sky.

The pan was full of soft clay but has now baked into the centre with fracture-like breaks which makes Deadvlei one of the most fascinating and striking places witnessed in the world.

• Location: Deadvlei, Sossusvlei 
• Approximate time to spend 30-45 minutes

Hiddenvlei

It’s possible to hike from the Sossusvlei car park to Hiddenvlei in 40 minutes and is about a 4 km walk. The sign for Hiddenvlei at the car park is a little confusing but take the path to the left of the sign in a South East direction.

The landscape is pretty barren much like Deadvlei but there fewer visitors here and again, the dead clay pan looks an incredible sight against the bright blue skies and orange dunes.

• Location: Hiddenvlei, Sossusvlei
• Approximate time to spend on whole hike: 1 hour 4o mins

#No. 3 A Sunrise Hot Air Ballon Ride

If there is one splash out activity you partake in your time in Namibia, let the sunrise hot air balloon flight be one of these. Get a birds eye view of the dunes of Sossusvlei from the sky.

You can either book this from your lodge (in which case you’ll be driven to the base and back) or book it solo and drive ether in your own vehicle.

This is one early start, you will be glad you made. You need to be present and ready at the base camp at 05:00. This is mother nature at her finest, treating you to one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles you’re likely to witness in life!

The experience involves the team driving you from Namib Sky base to where the balloons start their flight. A full safety briefing is given before having the opportunity to watch the balloons being prepared for the one hour long flight, the pilot will take you through landing positions as well as a commentary of the area and what to watch out for. 

The flight is followed by an ‘Out of Africa’ style champagne breakfast in a secret location with the most incredible views.

Namib Sky Safaris Eco-Tourism

Namib Sky Safaris are the only company in Sossusvlei that do Balloon flights and have a great sustainability tourism policy which includes a early years children’s school trust, a vegetable garden supporting the local community and their on-going commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. 

• Location: Namibia Sky Balloons, Sossusvlei
• Approximate Time Frame: Leave around four hours for the whole activity, including breakfast. You will be dropped back off at Namibia Sky base.
• Website & Bookings: Namibia Sky Balloons
• Pricing N$7800.00 ($523.83) per person.
• Important: Due to insurance purposes, this activity is unsuitable if you’re pregnant. 

Be-lavie Tip: Do not forget your camera, the baskets in the balloon are designed so that everyone gets a window seat and think about wearing layers of clothing as the temperatures can start off cold but it soon becomes very warm.

#No. 4 Explore Sesriem Canyon 

Sesriem Canyon is definitely worth a visit  and has been shaped over millions of years by the river Tschaub. It’s one of the very few places in Sossusvlei which holds water all year round.

It’s location is approximately 4.5 km from the National Park gates towards the left. It’s also possible to leave your vehicle in the dedicated parking area.

You can walk through the canyon but it does have some steep spots to climb up and down, just to mention as a precaution.

Be-lavie Tip: The name ‘Sesriem’ was given to the canyon by some of the first Afrikaans explorers who visited it. They had to use six (ses) leather straps (lien) tied together to lower into the canyon to obtain water.

• Location: Sesriem Canyon, Sossusvlei.
• Approximate time to spend: Less than an hour

Where to Stay in Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei has a number of lodges and camp sites to suit a variety of budgets. Most accommodation will feel remote and like you’re the only dwelling in the vicinity.

Andbeyond Lodge Sossusvlei // Luxury

The epitome of luxury in the desert, Andbeyond is a modern lodge, set in a private 37 acres reserve in the Namibia desert with an eco-friendly design. The ten standalone stone and glass villas comprise of wrap around verandas, opening up onto unobstructed desert views. En suite bathrooms and outdoor showers plus private plunge pools come with all villas. Each vill is split-level (bedroom and living area) with fireplaces.

The food is knock out and dining can be arranged on the communal verandah or in room. The dining area has the added touch of an interactive kitchen.

Activities and amenities at AndBeyond include, an observatory with resident astronomer and state-of-the-art telescope, in-room massages, a gym and wellness centre, quad biking, nature drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle, excursions to Sossusvlei, Sesriem Canyon, rock art sites and hot air ballooning as well as scenic flights.

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• Location: AndBeyond Lodge, Sossusvlei
• Website:AndBeyond Sossusvlei Lodge
• Price Range: (Suite: Per person, per night): Jan-May – USD $1127, June-Oct – USD $1947,  Nov-Dec – USD $1127, Late Dec-early Jan – $1947

Desert Homestead Lodge // Mid-Range

Set in a wide grassy valley, this 20 white-washed thatched huts, en-suite accommodation look stunning set amidst the backdrop go the Nubib, Tsaris and Naukluft Mountains. The vibe is relaxed, the decor is rustic and African and there’s a great outdoor pool with incredible views.

The main lodge has an open plan feel with a large restaurant, cosy bar and comfy leather seating surrounded by local artefacts and fabrics. There is even a small shop at the front near reception.

The cuisine is delicious with fantastic vegetarian and vegan options being served as well as other dietary requirements being noted. 

There are a huge number of activities that can be done at the lodge as well as in the sossusvlei areas. There is an onsite farm, horses for riding with an experienced trainer as well as hiking, sundowner and gam drives to mention a few. 

Small group and private tours can be booked from here to see the dunes as well as hot air balloons.  In our opinion, this was one of the best lodges during the whole road trip and contributed greatly to having the best Sossusvlei visit.

• Location: Desert Homestead Lodge
• Website: Desert Homestead Lodge
• Price Range (based on 2 sharing per night): USD $350

Little Sossus Lodge // Good Value

Located around 35 km Southeast from Sesriem lies Little Sossus Lodge. The main portion of the lodge is farmhouse converted into a friendly communal space for all guests. The veranda area is where meals are served (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and you can relax in the cosy ethnic-African inspired cosy lounge with sink in leather sofas.

The 16 chalet style accommodation are built from local rock and all come with mosquito nets, en suite bathrooms with showers with the lodge placing emphasis on eco-friendly practices. The lodge is run via wind generator where possible.

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The main activities offered here are day trips to see the giant dunes of Sossusvlei, sundowner and nature drives as well as guided trips to the Nauklauft Mountains

• Location: Little Sossus Lodge, Sesriem
• Website: Little Sossus Lodge
• Price Range (based on 2 sharing, per night): USD $250

Related Article: The Best Luxury Eco-Friendly Lodges in Namibia

Where To Eat & Drink In Sossusvlei

Restaurants in Sesriem are pretty limited. First off if you are staying at a lodge, the rate generally includes 3 meals and a host of other activities such as game drives.

Be-lavie Tip: Go for the full-board option at lodges as choice of places to eat in Sossusvlei are very limited.

It is possible to eat at other lodges if you are camping or staying at a basic level lodge, but booking ahead is a must and priority is given to guests. Additionally this would involve driving back in the dark to your accommodation and driving in the dark is not recommended for tourists due to the unfamiliar landscape and wildlife.

If you are camping or have opted for self-contained accommodation then use all the facilities onsite such as barbecues and you can pick up groceries at the Engen Service Station in Sesriem. The small store is great for essentials as hot and cold snacks but nothing that will be good for dinner or lunch.

Be-lavie Tips For Sossusvlei

Some additional tips that will help ensure you are all set for the best visit to Sossusvlei as possible.

#1 Sesriem Is Limited For Basics

Sesriem is made up of a few lodges, a petrol/gad station and a small shop. If you need food or water, sock up on these when you’re in a city, like Windhoek or Swakopmund.

#2 Prepare For The Heat

 Ensure you have plenty of water to sip on whilst climbing the dunes as we underestimated just how much we’d need in the dry heat of the desert, Slather yourself in plenty of sunscreen and keep reapplying regularly. We’d suggest a hih factor like SPF 50.

#3 Be Aware Of Park Guidelines

Park wardens are responsible for looking after the vast space so make sure you are aware when the park closes and prepare your departure, just as you do your arrival.

#4 What To Wear When Climbing The Dunes

The sand can be very hot, unless you’re walking first thing in the morning or at sunrise, don’t climb the dunes in flip flops or sandals. Bring closed toes shoes like trainers. Climbing barefoot is a great way to get up the bigger dunes but not in the late morning, midday or afternoon sun.  Shorts or cropped trousers are perfect for climbing dunes. We wouldn’t recommend dresses, especially when you bounce and slide down the dunes on the way down.

#5 Protect Camera Equipment

There is a lot of sand at Sossusvlei as you will have guessed! We’d recommend carrying your camera around your neck with the straps and make sure the lens cap is on to avoid sand flying into the lens cavities. If you have a dry bag with tapered seams, this is a great idea to store your camera in when not in use throughout Namibia in general, You can buy these are camping outlets.

#6 Backpacks Are Essential

Be careful not to drop anything as the last thing you want to do when you’ve just come down a steep dune like Big Daddy is to find you’ve dropped your hat, sunglasses or any other possession. Keep everything in a back pack or hold onto it all.

How To Best Visit Sossusvlei Round-up

Sossusvlei is certainly one of the most incredible wonders of the world with it’s awe-inspiring sand-dunes, canyons and sheer magnitude of the 55 million year old Namib-Nauklauft desert, It is a once in a lifetime destination and therefore a visit must be curated with care as not to avoid missing some of the most precious elements of the area. From lodges to suit all budgets, remote plains to the eerie skeleton-like structures set amongst a backdrop of vibrant orange dunes and bright blue skies, Sossusvlei is a destination that can’t quite be real until you witness it’s enormity for yourself. The content and tips in this guide should ensure you have the best visit to Sossusvlei

Other Useful Information To Best Visit Sossusvlei

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