August 2, 2023
Sossusvlei Namibia - ultimate travel guide for how to visit
Welcome to the otherworldly beauty of Sossusvlei Namibia, a place where nature’s artistry is on full display. Nestled within the Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia (the oldest desert in the world!), Sossusvlei is a mesmerising desert destination that will leave you in awe.
Sossusvlei is one of the oldest and driest deserts on Earth, with some dunes estimated to be around 5 million years old. It is a place of towering red sand dunes, stark white clay pans, and breath-taking views. The landscapes here will actually make you want to get up at sunrise and stay out for sunset every day you’re here.
Our detailed Sossusvlei Namibia guide covers everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip including where to stay, how to get here, what to see and do while you’re here and essential information for visiting. We hope we inspire you to put Sossusvlei Namibia on your bucket list. It truly is one of the most unique landscapes you’ll ever see.
If you’re visiting Sossusvlei as part of a larger Namibia vacation, check out our incredibly detailed 14 day road trip itinerary. our guide to visiting Swakopmund and Walvis Bay or our guide to the 12 most epic things to do in Namibia. We have also put together a detailed guide to hiring a car in Namibia.
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In this article
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Highlights map of SossusvleiHighlights map of Sossusvlei
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Best things to do in SossusvleiBest things to do in Sossusvlei
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Suggested 3-day itinerarySuggested 3-day itinerary
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How to get to SossusvleiHow to get to Sossusvlei
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Best time to visit SossusvleiBest time to visit Sossusvlei
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Essential tips for visitingEssential tips for visiting
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Where to stayWhere to stay
Highlights map of Sossusvlei Namibia
Best things to see and do in Sossusvlei Namibia
Elim Dune
If you’re arriving into Sossusvlei Namibia quite late on the first day, Elim Dune is the perfect spot to catch the sunset. Elim Dune is a captivating dune located just inside the gates, showcasing vibrant reds and oranges against the desert backdrop. Climbing Elim Dune offers a decent challenge (fairly moderate ascent) for your first evening, and rewards you with panoramic views of the beauty and power of Namibia’s desert landscapes. This was the first spot we saw oryx up close, and it made for a fantastic first night on our Namibia trip!
Take a hot air balloon or scenic flight tour over Sossusvlei Namibia
Experiencing Sossusvlei from the air offers a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes and vastness of the Namib Desert. The dunes in Sossusvlei are predominantly star dunes, shaped like a star when seen from above, which is a rare and fascinating dune type. There are two main ways to see Sossusvlei Namibia from the air:
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Consider taking an unforgettable hot air balloon ride that takes you soaring above the dunes and pans of Sossusvlei at sunrise. You’ll witness the ever-changing colours of the desert as the first rays of sunlight paint the landscape in golden and pink hues. The aerial view offers an incredible opportunity to see the intricate patterns of the dunes and the surreal beauty of Dead Vlei from above. Hot air balloon safaris typically include a champagne breakfast upon landing, making it a truly magical and deluxe experience.
However, this experience does come with a hefty price tag. For example, a sunrise tour with Namib Sky Balloon Safaris will cost $N8,200 (~€490) per person. This activity is strictly weather dependent so we would suggest that you book it for your first morning in case it gets pushed out a day.
Scenic Flights
Your second option for seeing Sossusvlei from the air is by taking a scenic flight. Several charter companies offer flights over the desert in small aircraft or helicopters. The flight allows you to cover a larger area and discover remote and inaccessible parts of the desert that are not easily reached by other means.
Prices depend on how many people you are traveling with. Prices range from N$2,130 (~€127) per person for 5 passengers, up to N$5,320 (~€320) per person for 2 passengers. Be careful to take note of where your scenic flight departs from. Some will leave from Swakopmund rather than near Sossusvlei itself.
Dead Vlei
At the heart of Sossusvlei Namibia lies the iconic Dead Vlei, a dried-up clay pan dotted with ancient, gnarled camel thorn trees aged between 900-1000 years old. The contrasting white clay against the deep red dunes, black trees and bright blue sky creates a dramatic sight that is a photographer’s dream. In Afrikaans, “vlei” means “marsh” or “wetland,” indicating that this area was once a lush, green marshland before it transformed into the striking desiccated landscape we see today. Make the effort to arrive for sunrise and you will be rewarded with ever-changing colours and smaller crowds.
How to get to Dead Vlei
Dead Vlei is located 60km from the gate. Most of this is on bitumen except for the last 5 km (3 miles) which is sandy. To get to Dead Vlei you will need to lower the pressure in your tyres to around 1.8 bar and engage 4WD once you leave the 2WD car park. The sand is not very deep going out there and we found driving ourselves to be quite straightforward. Just keep a slow and steady pace and don’t stop to avoid getting bogged. However, if you don’t feel confident driving yourself you will find plenty of shuttle buses waiting at the 2WD car park that can take you in. They run all day and leave as soon as they are full. The shuttle costs N$150 (~€9) return.
You will find toilet facilities and picnic tables at the Dead Vlei car park. From the car park it is only a short, flat walk to Dead Vlei. Big Daddy dune will be on your left as you walk into the salt pan.
Hidden Vlei
From the 2WD car park leading to Dead Vlei, you’ll find a walking path to Hidden Vlei, a much less visited clay pan. You’ll need to walk about 2km along a poorly marked trail (just follow the poles). Though not as impressive as Dead Vlei as there aren’t many trees, it’s still a striking landscape and you’ll likely have it all to yourself. As it is remote, make sure you bring enough water and wear sun protection as there is no shade.
Go off the beaten track in Sossusvlei Namibia
Climbing the majestic dunes in Sossusvlei is an awe-inspiring adventure. The dunes here are famous for their vibrant red and orange hues, caused by iron oxide in the sand, contrasting brilliantly against the blue sky. Climbing dunes in Sossusvlei is a challenge as the shifting sand tests your balance (and patience, especially when it’s hot).
Reaching the summit almost always reveals a breathtaking panorama, so don’t worry the climb will be worth it! Descending is an exhilarating slide, and you’ll sink deep into the soft sand so remember to wear enclosed shoes. Wearing sandals is tempting in the heat, but you don’t want to burn your feet.
Some of our favourite dunes were the ones that weren’t signposted. We typically just pulled over at dunes that caught our eye. Or we wandered to adjacent dunes of the more popular ones like Dune 45. Just beware that your depth perception can be off in the desert. It typically took us about 30 minutes to reach the base of the dunes we visited that didn’t have roads leading directly to them. A good tip is to look at the satellite imagery on google maps and pick dunes that are closest to the roads.
Dune 39, Dune 45 and Big Daddy – most popular dunes in Sossuslvei Namibia
When it comes to climbing dunes in Sossusvlei, there are a few standout options. One of the most popular dunes is Dune 45, named after its location 45 kilometers from the Sesriem Gate. It provides a challenging yet rewarding climb, offering panoramic views and stunning photo opportunities. Not far from here you’ll find Dune 39 (you guessed it, 39km from the gate). Both of these dunes have roads leading right up to them with car parks at the base where you start the climb, making them fairly accessible. You’ll also find toilet facilities here, just remember to bring toilet paper and hand wipes with you.
Another notable dune is Big Daddy, which is known as one of the tallest dunes in Sossusvlei. Climbing Big Daddy is a strenuous undertaking, but reaching its summit provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding dunes and the expansive salt pan of Dead Vlei below. Just know that you won’t make it up for sunrise for this one, it’s too far of a drive in, and too tall of a climb. Some of the dunes in Sossusvlei, including Big Daddy and Dune 45, are actually among the tallest in the world, reaching heights of over 300 metres (984 feet). Regardless of which dune you choose to climb in Sossusvlei, each one offers a unique perspective and a chance to connect with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Namib Desert.
Sesriem Canyon
If you have a little extra time, exploring the nearby Sesriem Canyon is a must. Carved by the powerful forces of the Tsauchab River over millions of years, this narrow gorge offers a unique opportunity to witness the fascinating geological history of the region up close. We found this to be the perfect midday escape from the heat of the desert as you walk along the bottom of the canyon which is mostly in shade. Just beware of the baboons as you pass through. Sesriem Canyon is located about 4.5km from the entrance gate and you’ll only need about 30-45 minutes to explore the area.
Don’t forget to look up!
The Namib Desert Dark Sky Reserve is a star-gazers heaven, offering an uninterrupted view of the star-filled night sky. Free from light pollution, it allows visitors to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way, with countless stars and galaxies illuminating the vast desert landscape.
3-day itinerary for Sossusvlei Namibia
We think 2 nights / 3 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Sossusvlei. You’re likely going to have to drive a long distance to arrive on day 1, and probably again when you depart on day 3. So this will leave you with one full day to explore, as well as a sunset on arrival and a sunrise before you depart.
1st Day:
- Morning: Depart early and make your way to Sesriem (the small town where the gate to Sossusvlei is located). Driving times in Namibia can be very long and you shouldn’t drive after dark. For example, if you’re arriving from Windhoek, it will take you approximately 5 to 6 hours. If you’re visiting during peak season (July-August), sunset is at around 6.30pm so you should be on the road before lunch.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Sesriem and make your way to the Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) office to pick up your permits for the next few days. Next, check in to your chosen accommodation within or near the park. Take a short rest and familiarise yourself with the facilities.
- Afternoon: Leaving yourself plenty of time before sunset, head into the park and stop just inside the gates at Elim Dune. This dune is located conveniently close to the gates, making it a great stop for your first evening. You will need enough time to climb Elim Dune (about half an hour or so), descend and make it back to the gates before they close, so keep that in mind.
- Evening: Head back to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening under the star-filled Namibian sky!
2nd Day:
- Early morning: Depart before sunrise for an excursion to Dead Vlei, a surreal clay pan adorned with ancient, dead acacia trees offering unique photo opportunities.
- Mid-morning: Continue to explore other stunning dunes and natural attractions in the area, such as Hidden Vlei.
- Midday: Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved lunch and to relax during the hottest part of the day.
- Afternoon: Explore the nearby Sesriem Canyon, a magnificent rock formation shaped by centuries of erosion.
- Late afternoon: Head back into Sossusvlei to climb Dune 45, one of the tallest and most accessible dunes in Sossusvlei, for sunset over the desert landscape. If you’d prefer somewhere more quiet, simply try one of the adjacent dunes.
- Evening: Enjoy another peaceful night in the desert, stargazing and appreciating the tranquility of your surroundings.
3rd Day:
- Early morning: Depart for an unforgettable hot air balloon safari over the Sossusvlei area. Alternatively, head back into Sossusvlei to climb an unmarked dune and enjoy having the area to yourself for sunrise.
- Mid-morning: Return to your accommodation for a final breakfast in Sossusvlei.
- Late morning: Check out from your accommodation and begin your onward journey.
How to get to Sossusvlei Namibia
You only really have two options for reaching Sossusvlei, hiring a car or joining an organised tour. Hiring a vehicle will give you the greatest flexibility and allow you to experience Sossusvlei at your own pace. However, joining a tour is perfect for those looking for convenience. Or if you’re interested in local expertise to enhance your experience and gain more in depth knowledge, a tour will certainly suit you.
Driving
You’ll likely be arriving in Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek. The distance from Windhoek to Sossusvlei is approximately 350 km (217 miles). The journey takes around 5-6 hours by car (factoring in breaks). It is not recommended that you drive at night. In fact most car rental companies won’t allow you to and your insurance won’t cover you after sunset. So unless you’re arriving in Windhoek very early in the morning we suggest that you stay the night and leave early the next morning.
The road conditions out to Sossusvlei were probably some of the worst we encountered. But in saying that, in June 2023 as we were traveling through there were a lot of road works happening. There were significant amounts of grading occurring on dirt roads, which made the trip a heck of a lot faster than it otherwise would have been.
We’ve included distances and travel times for some other popular locations you may be traveling from to reach Sossusvlei:
- Fish River Canyon: 7 hr 23 min (614 km / 381 miles)
- Keetmanshoop: 5 hr 20 min (499 km / 310 miles)
- Luderitz: 6 hr 4 min (466 km / 289 miles)
- Swakopmund: 4 hr 23 min (347 km / 215 miles)
Getting into the park
To enter Sossusvlei you will first arrive at Sesriem. It’s here that you will need to pay the park entrance fee before you can proceed into Namib-Naukluft National Park. From Sesriem Gate, a bitumen road leads to the park’s entrance. There is one road in and out so you won’t miss anything during your visit, trust me. The bitumen road extends about 60km (37 miles) and ends at a 2WD parking area.
To access Sossusvlei’s more remote areas such as Dead Vlei, you will require a 4×4 vehicle. Otherwise you have the option to utilise the available 4WD shuttle service. In general though we suggest that you hire a 4WD for your trip in Namibia. We have a detailed Namibia road trip guide that outlines why you should hire a 4WD, and a guide to hiring a car in Namibia that includes important considerations for choosing what rental company to go with, and other essential information that you should know before arriving in Namibia.
Organised tours
Taking a tour to Sossusvlei offers several benefits that can enhance your experience of this stunning desert destination. An important benefit is local expertise of tour guides that have in-depth knowledge of the area and who can provide valuable insights into the desert’s history, geology, flora, and fauna. They can share interesting stories and ensure you don’t miss any key sights or experiences. Joining a tour also eliminates the need to plan transportation, accommodation, and activities yourself. The tour operator will take care of logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. There are tour options from both Windhoek, like this one, or Swakopmund, like this one.
Best time to visit Sossusvlei Namibia
The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. This period offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as Sossusvlei. The weather is more moderate, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. This makes it comfortable for exploring the diverse landscapes of Namibia. This is especially the case if you’re camping, there is nothing worse than roasting in a tent as soon as the sun rises.
However, it’s worth noting that popular destinations like Sossusvlei can get crowded during the peak months of July and August. We went in June and thought the weather, and fairly small crowds, were absolutely perfect.
If you’re averse to crowds, the months of November to April offer a chance to witness migratory bird species and the vibrant bloom of desert flowers. Camping at this time of year probably won’t be ideal, however as it will be very warm and there is increased rainfall.
Essential information for visiting Sossusvlei Namibia
Opening times
Two gates provide access to Sossusvlei: the national park gate (Sesriem gate) and the inner gate. The Sesriem gate opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. While the inner gate allows entry one hour before sunrise and remains open one hour after sunset. This is why we suggest that you stay within the gates. Check out the section on where to stay below for more information.
Permits
As soon as you arrive at Sossusvlei, purchase your park entry tickets. You’ll want to be inside the park for sunrise (if you’re staying inside the gates that is). The only way to do this is to buy your tickets the day before. You will find the NWR (Namibia Wildlife Resorts) office as soon as you enter Sesriem. You can’t miss it, it’s the only large building. Entry fees are N$150 (€7.50) per person per day, plus N$50 per standard vehicle (€2.50).
Timing
Plan your visit during the cooler months (April to September) to avoid extreme heat. Make the most of early morning or late afternoon visits into the park to witness the dunes in the best light.
Driving times
Dune numbers indicate how many kilometres inside the gate it is located. For example, Dune 45 is 45 km from the Sesriem gate. To reach Dead Vlei, you will need to follow the bitumen road to the very end which is about 55 km from the gate. From there it’s another 5 km along sand which is only suitable for 4WD’s. The speed limit inside the park is 60km/hr (approximately 37 miles/hr).
These speed limits are in place to ensure the safety of visitors, protect the delicate desert environment, and prevent damage to the roads and surroundings. However, you will find that A LOT of people speed. Especially when the gate opens, people manically drive through at ridiculous speeds. Pay no mind to them however. You will have glorious views the entire drive through the park and it takes a long time for the sun to rise behind the massive dunes.
Water and snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the park. Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert environment. If you plan on taking a walk to Hidden Vlei or climbing any dunes make sure that you’re prepared and avoid the middle of the day.
Toilets
You’ll find toilets at Dune 39, Dune 45 and Dead Vlei. Keep an eye out for small wooden shacks either on the road as you enter, or at the car parks for each of these locations. You will need to bring toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
Sun Protection
Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from the sun.
Footwear
Opt for closed-toe shoes rather than sandals or flip flops. It will be hot and you’ll be tempted to wear sandals. However, if you wear these during the day while climbing dunes you risk burning your feet.
Respect the Environment
Follow Leave No Trace principles and don’t litter. Take all trash with you when leaving the area and only drive on designated roads.
Photography
You won’t want to forget your camera for this trip. But remember to enjoy the moment without solely focusing on taking photos.
Groceries
If you plan on camping at Sossusvlei we suggest that you pick up groceries in Windhoek or Swakopmund depending on which direction you’re coming from. Grocery stores in major cities are very well stocked, and have the best prices. There is a small store and restaurant at the NWR Sesriem Campsite, however everything will be more expensive here.
Where to stay near Sossusvlei Namibia
You have plenty of options when it comes to accommodation at Sossusvlei. Most important is the decision on whether you want to stay inside the gates or not. There are plenty of benefits to staying inside the gates including:
- Proximity to Attractions: Staying inside the gates means you are closer to the iconic attractions in Sossusvlei like Deadvlei, Dune 45 and Big Daddy. This allows you to access these sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are less crowded and offer the best lighting for photography. It also reduces travel time, maximising your time for exploration and adventure!
- Early Access: Guests staying inside the park have the opportunity for early entry and late exit permits (1 hour before and after those staying outside of the gate). This allows you to witness sunrise and sunset at the dunes and clay pans, when the light creates absolutely stunning colours and shadows. This is the biggest perk in our opinion for staying inside the gates.
- Conservation Support: By staying inside the park, you contribute directly to the conservation efforts of Namib-Naukluft National Park. This is because the park fees go toward supporting conservation initiatives and the preservation of this unique ecosystem.
Staying inside the gates
If you want to stay inside the gates at Sossusvlei Namibia, there are limited options and they do book out well in advance. We suggest that you plan ahead and ensure you book your accommodation here as early as possible. We met a few other travellers who had missed out on accommodation inside the gates. They were having to drive considerable distances to reach Sossusvlei each day. Not to mention they missed out on the beauty of sunrise. Depending on how you’re traveling, there are options for both camping and lodges within the gates.
Camping
There are two campgrounds inside the gate right next to each other, Sesriem Oshana Camp and Sesriem Campsite – Namibia Wildlife Resort (NWR). Sesriem Oshana Camp is the nicer, newer campground, and is a joint venture with NWR. It costs N$400 (€20) per person per day. The NWR campsite costs N$450 (€22) per site per day.
We stayed at Sesriem Oshana Camp for two nights and would certainly recommend it. The campsites were spaced far enough apart that you had some privacy, you look directly out to Elim Dune making for spectacular sunsets, and you have your own private bathroom and shower. The shower room even locks so you can leave your camping equipment in there during the day and save yourself time in the morning by not having to pack everything away! Expect super hot water, great lighting, electricity to plug your fridge into, a kitchenette and wash up basin, a shaded area for your tent, and a fire pit.
The campsite is literally at the gate, so you can wake up and immediately be inside the park. You even have access to the pool, store and restaurant at the neighbouring NWR campsite. You couldn’t need anything more! There are only 10 individual campsites for those travelling with roof tents, so we really recommend you book early. There are additional spaces if you have a ground tent however.
You will hear hyenas and jackals at night, and you’ll probably even see jackals roaming around the campsite. Be careful not to leave food lying outside overnight and always pick up your rubbish so wildlife don’t eat it.
Lodges
There are also multiple options for lodges within the gates including Dead Valley Lodge and Sossus Dune Lodge. There is also Kulala Desert Lodge, which although is not directly inside the gates of the national park, is located on the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, which shares a boundary with the park offering exclusive access to the reserve. Lodges like these offer more comfortable (or even luxurious) accommodations, restaurants, and guided excursions to explore the surrounding desert landscapes.
Staying outside the gates
Staying outside the gates at Sossusvlei offers several benefits that may appeal to different travellers. For example, outside the gates you’ll find a wider range of accommodation options, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly guesthouses. This allows you to choose accommodation that suits your preferences and budget, and means you won’t have to book as far in advance.
A lot of the lodges and camps outside the gates are also set in picturesque locations, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscapes, providing a more unique setting. And finally, options outside the park often offer more flexible check-in and check-out times, allowing you to plan your desert exploration according to your own schedule.
A good budget option for a lodge outside of the gates is Desert Quiver Camp at N$2,680 (€134) per night for 2 adults. There are also campgrounds outside of the gates, such as Sossus Oasis Camp Site which costs N$500 (€25) per night for two people, offering much of the same facilities as the campgrounds inside the gates.
Thanks for stopping by!
We hope we’ve inspired you to visit the surreal landscapes of Sossusvlei Namibia. We think that this incredible destination located in the oldest desert in the world should be on everyones bucket list.
For those planning to visit Sossusvlei as part of a larger trip to Namibia, we also have a 14 day Namibia road trip itinerary. our guide to visiting Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, and a detailed guide to the 12 most epic things to do in Namibia.
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