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Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia, is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world. With its towering sand dunes, unique desert wildlife, and stunning sunrise vistas, it’s no wonder why Sossusvlei has become such a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
In this ultimate guide to Sossusvlei, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip in 2024, from when to go and what to bring, to where to stay and what to do once you’re there. This guide will be useful for both first-time visitors and returning visitors. Read on and get ready to explore one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Africa!
Table of Contents
What is Sossusvlei?
Sossusvlei is a world-renowned destination located in the heart of the Namib Desert. Its name means “dead-end marsh” in Afrikaans, and it is a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering sand dunes. Visitors from all over the world come to witness the stunning natural beauty of this desert wonderland, which is home to some of the highest dunes in the world. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, Sossusvlei is also a place of cultural significance for the local communities who have lived in the area for generations.
Where is Sossusvlei?
Sossusvlei is located in the western part of Namibia, about 230 miles (370 kilometers) southwest of Windhoek. It is situated in the Namib-Naukluft Park, the largest national park in Africa. This protected area makes Sossusvlei one of the most remote and pristine areas of Namibia.
How to Get to Sossusvlei
To get to Sossusvlei, visitors usually fly into Windhoek and then drive south to the park. Paved roads quickly turn into gravel roads and even some dirt roads. I drove a compact SUV from Windhoek to Sossusvlei and made it in one piece. However, I highly recommend renting a 4×4, as it will be a safer and more comfortable ride. Depending on how fast you go, it could take between 5-6 hours.
What to Do in Sossusvlei
While there is plenty to see and do in Sossusvlei, here are our recommended top 5!
Sunrise at Dune 45
In my opinion, Dune 45 is the best place to go to see the sunrise. This dune is famously known for its unique shape and is one of the most photographed sand dunes in the world. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 is also an option for those looking for a bit of adventure and exercise. The climb is steep, but the view from the top is truly breathtaking, especially during sunrise.
Sunset at Elim Dunes
The Elim Dunes is one of the most picturesque spots in Sossusvlei. Watching the sunset from the top of the dune is an unforgettable experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sand takes on a vibrant orange hue, making for some incredible photo opportunities. These dunes are located near Sesriem Campsite, so it is the best place to view the sunset without worrying about getting locked inside the park at night!
Climb to the top of Big Daddy
Climbing to the top of Big Daddy is one of the most popular activities in Sossusvlei. The highest dune in the area, Big Daddy stands at over 1,000 feet (325 meters) tall. The climb can be challenging, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. From the summit, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. I highly recommend starting the hike in the morning, as the day quickly becomes scorching hot. Also, bring plenty of water, as this hike may take anywhere from 1-2.5 hours.
Camp at Sesriem and go stargazing
Camping at Sesriem is a popular way to experience Sossusvlei. There are several campsites available with basic amenities, including bathrooms and showers. There is also a restaurant located there (and I recommend trying the oryx steak!). The night sky is very impressive, and on clear nights, you can easily see the Milky Way. Just make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes for the night, because it gets extremely cold!
Explore Deadvlei
Deadvlei is a striking white clay pan surrounded by towering red sand dunes, including Big Daddy. It’s a popular spot for photographers due to the surreal contrasts between the white clay, blackened camelthorn trees, and deep orange dunes. These camelthorn trees died about a thousand years ago! They haven’t decomposed due to how quickly the water dried up in the area. Be respectful when visiting and avoid touching or climbing the trees.
Best Time to Visit Sossusvlei
The best time to visit Sossusvlei is during the cooler months from April to October, when temperatures are mild and the sky is clear. The desert can be scorching during the summer months of November to March, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). It is also worth noting that the rainy season runs from December to March, which can make the road conditions challenging. If you plan to visit during this time, it is best to travel in a 4×4 vehicle and check road conditions before you embark on your journey.
What to Bring to Sossusvlei
Here are some of the essentials to bring to Sossusvlei:
- Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes (While some people hike the dunes barefoot, I decided to wear my shoes. Besides getting sand in them, I think it is easier to hike up the dunes this way.)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for the daytime
- Long pants will protect you from the wind whipping sand against your legs on the dunes
- Warm clothing for the cold nights
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Camping equipment to save money on lodging
Where to Stay in Sossusvlei
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay in Sossusvlei. What you choose will depend on your budget, desired level of luxury, and what kind of experiences you wish to have.
Sesriem Campsite
If you are on a budget, the Sesriem Campsite is the way to go. This costs 550 NAD ($30 USD) and is the cheapest option for sleeping inside the park. You can rent a tent for an additional 500 NAD ($27 USD), or bring your own. Note: you can camp outside the park for free, but you will not be able to see the sunrise at the dunes. I recommend sleeping inside the park at least once to be able to see this.
Sossusvlei Lodge
If you want a little more luxury, check out Sossusvlei Lodge. This is also located inside the park, so you will be able to see the sunrise at the dunes. You can also enjoy spending time at the pool, bar, or restaurant located at this hotel. Depending on which room you book, you can pay anywhere from $180-540 USD/night!
&Beyond Desert Lodge
If you want to stay deeper in the Namib Desert, you can check out the &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. This lodge is only accessible via 4×4 or helicopter! You can enjoy all of the amenities of this location for the small price of $930 USD/night, or up to $8730 USD/night for the Star Dune Suite.
Tips for Visiting
Before your trip to Sossusvlei, here are 5 tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
1. Take plenty of water and snacks
When you reach the large dunes in the morning, you will likely be bundled up with warm clothes due to the cold temperatures. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you won’t need much water, because it will get extremely hot once the sun comes out. It’s important to bring plenty of water and snacks when hiking the dunes in Sossusvlei, as the sun can quickly dehydrate you and leave you feeling weak and lightheaded. You don’t want to be halfway up a large dune and not have the energy to continue walking! It’s better to bring too much than too little, so pack more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.
2. Enter the park when the gates open
If you pay to sleep inside the the outer gates (either in the campsite or a lodge) to Namib Naukluft Park, then you will be able to enter the park at 6:15 AM. You should be in your car waiting for the inner gates to open in order to reach the dunes before sunrise. Dune 45 is about a 40 minute drive from the inner gates. I highly recommend climbing this dune for sunrise.
3. Download a map of Sossusvlei offline
It’s very important to have an offline map of Sossusvlei before you get there. There is WiFi available (for a price) at the Sesriem Restaurant, but it was not working while I was there. In addition, you likely won’t get any kind of cell service in Sossusvlei. Having a downloaded map before you arrive will ensure that you can navigate the area with ease and won’t get lost in the vast desert landscape. It’s also a good idea to bring a physical map as a backup in case your phone or other electronic device fails.
4. Sleep inside the Namib Naukluft Park at least once
Visiting Sossusvlei is not necessarily cheap. If you choose to sleep in the park, you will have to pay 550 NAD ($30 USD) per person, along with the 150 NAD ($8.30 USD) park entry fee and 50 NAD ($2.75 USD) vehicle fee. You will have to pay these fees every 24 hours spent at the park. Despite this, it is worth sleeping inside the park at least once, because it is the only way to see the sunrise at the dunes. If you sleep outside the park, you will not be able to enter until 7:15 AM. By the time you drive to the dunes, you will have missed the sunrise.
5. Start hiking the large dunes in the morning
Sand dunes are difficult to hike up. It is even more difficult if the scorching sun is beating down on you. That’s why it’s important to hike the Sossusvlei dunes in the morning. Not only will the temperatures be cooler and more comfortable, but you will also beat the crowds and have the dunes mostly to yourself. It’s much more fun to climb the dunes at your own pace than to be stuck behind slow-moving groups.
