One of the most spectacular landmarks in Namibia, Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes. It is located in the southern part of the Namib Desert. Tours often include activities such as dune climbing, hot air balloon rides, and photography.

The Sossusvlei Dunes are a must-see for any visitor to Namibia. Located in the Namib Desert, these towering sand dunes are some of the highest in the world, reaching heights of up to 325 meters. The dunes are a stunning sight, with their constantly changing colors and shapes, from bright orange in the early morning and late afternoon, to a deep red at sunset. The dunes are a popular spot for sandboarding, and there are also guided tours available that offer a unique insight into the desert ecosystem. /n The dunes are located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, which is also home to a variety of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and ostrich. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded. The Sossusvlei Dunes are a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the stark beauty and harsh conditions of the Namib Desert.

The Sossusvlei Dunes are a stunning natural wonder, offering breathtaking views and a unique desert experience.

Deadvlei is a white clay pan located near the more famous salt pan of Sossusvlei, inside the Namib-Naukluft Park. It is characterized by dark, dead camel thorn trees contrasted against the white pan floor. The pan was formed when the Tsauchab River flooded and the abundance of water allowed camel thorn trees to grow. However, the climate changed and the sand dunes encroached on the pan, blocking the river from reaching the area.

Deadvlei is one of the most striking features of the Namib-Naukluft Park in Namibia. This white clay pan was formed more than a thousand years ago, when the Tsauchab River flooded and the abundance of water allowed camel thorn trees to grow. However, the climate changed over time, and the sand dunes encroached on the pan, blocking the river from reaching the area. /n The trees died, as there was no longer any water for them to survive. The remaining skeletons of the trees, which are believed to be about 900 years old, are now black because the intense sun has scorched them. Though not petrified, the wood does not decompose because it is so dry. The contrast of the pitch-black trees against the shiny white of the salty floor of the pan and the brilliant orange of the dunes creates a particularly fascinating and surrealistic landscape.

Deadvlei is a white clay pan characterized by dark, dead camel thorn trees contrasting against the shiny white pan floor.

Sesriem Canyon is a natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab rivier in the local sedimentary rock, about a kilometre long and up to 30 meters deep. Because the rock layers are distinctly different in color, they present a fascinating sight. The canyon is a popular tourist attraction in Namibia.

Sesriem Canyon is a natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab river in Sossusvlei, Namibia. Over millions of years, the river has carved deep into the earth, creating a canyon that's now a popular tourist attraction. The canyon is about a kilometer long and up to 30 meters deep, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. /n The canyon is also home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds and small mammals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the canyon, or explore on their own. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts long shadows across the canyon walls, creating a dramatic and beautiful scene. Despite its remote location, Sesriem Canyon is easily accessible by car, and there are several campsites and lodges nearby for those wishing to stay overnight.

A natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab river, Sesriem Canyon is a popular attraction in Sossusvlei.

Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa, encompassing part of the Namib Desert, the world's oldest desert. The park is most known for its high sand dunes, which are a vibrant red color due to the high iron content. It offers various activities such as game viewing, bird watching, hiking, photography, and star gazing.

Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa and is located in Sossusvlei, Namibia. The park covers an area of over 49,000 square kilometers and is known for its diverse landscapes, including the famous Sossusvlei sand dunes, the Naukluft mountain range, and the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world. /n The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of antelope, zebra, and a large number of bird species. Visitors can explore the park on guided tours, or take a scenic drive through the park to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife. The park also offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light creates stunning colors and shadows on the sand dunes and mountains.

Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa, known for its stunning landscapes.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sossusvlei, Namibia, a stunning desert landscape characterized by towering red dunes and stark white salt pans. This iconic destination offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Embark on a hot air balloon ride for a bird's eye view of the dunes, or challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Big Daddy, the tallest dune in the area. Explore Deadvlei, a surreal white clay pan dotted with centuries-old tree skeletons. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot oryx, springboks, and ostriches in their natural habitat. As the day ends, witness a mesmerizing sunset painting the dunes in hues of orange and red. Sossusvlei is not just a trip, it's a journey into the heart of Namibia's ethereal desert beauty.

Sossusvlei Dunes

Deadvlei

Start your day with a sunrise visit to the iconic Sossusvlei Dunes. These are some of the highest sand dunes in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning desert scenery. Pack a basket with local delicacies and fresh fruits for a unique dining experience.

After lunch, head to the Deadvlei, a white clay pan characterized by dark, dead camel thorn trees contrasted against the shiny white pan floor. It's a great spot for photography.

For dinner, prepare a traditional Namibian barbecue, also known as a 'braai'. Enjoy the meal under the starlit sky, a perfect end to your day.

Spend the evening stargazing. The clear desert skies of Sossusvlei offer an incredible view of the stars, making it a perfect location for astronomy enthusiasts.

Exploring the Iconic Sossusvlei Dunes and Deadvlei

Sesriem Canyon

Namib-Naukluft National Park

Start your second day with a visit to the Sesriem Canyon, a natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab river over millions of years. It's a great place for a morning hike.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch. Prepare sandwiches and enjoy them while appreciating the beauty of the Namibian desert.

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the largest game park in Africa. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as oryx, springbok, and ostriches.

End your day with another traditional 'braai' for dinner. Enjoy the peaceful desert evening as you share stories and experiences of the day.

Spend your last evening in Sossusvlei enjoying a family game night. Bring along board games or card games to play under the stars.

Discovering Sesriem Canyon and Namib-Naukluft National Park

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in September; ends first Sunday in April

UTC+1

Sossusvlei is located in a remote part of Namibia, so having a rental car is the most convenient way to get around. There are several car rental companies available at the Windhoek airport. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the sandy and sometimes rough terrain.

There are numerous tour operators that offer guided tours to Sossusvlei. These tours often include transportation, meals, and accommodation. This is a great option for those who prefer not to drive and want a hassle-free experience.

Private transfers can be arranged from Windhoek or Swakopmund. This is a comfortable and convenient option, but it can be more expensive than renting a car.

Some lodges and hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from Sossusvlei. This is a good option if you are staying nearby and don't want to drive.

For a unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride over the Sossusvlei dunes. This is typically an early morning activity and includes a champagne breakfast.

Experience the desert the traditional way with a camel safari. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the dunes of Sossusvlei.

For those looking for a thrilling experience, a helicopter tour provides a bird's eye view of the stunning landscape. This is a great way to see the vastness of the desert and the beautiful dune formations.

Ridesharing is not commonly used in Sossusvlei due to its remote location. It's better to rely on car rentals, private transfers, or guided tours for transportation.

Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat that originated in Southern African countries including Namibia. It is a popular snack in Sossusvlei and is often made from beef or game such as springbok.

Biltong

Kapana is a popular street food in Namibia. It is a type of barbecued meat, usually beef, that is cooked over an open fire. It's a must-try for visitors to Sossusvlei.

Kapana

Potjiekos is a traditional Namibian stew. It is slow-cooked in a three-legged pot over an open fire. The dish is a hearty meal often enjoyed in Sossusvlei.

Potjiekos

Boerewors is a type of sausage popular in Namibia. It is made from a mixture of beef and spices, and is often grilled on a barbecue. It's a common food item in Sossusvlei.

Boerewors

Braaibroodjie is a grilled sandwich that is a popular side dish at barbecues in Namibia. It typically includes ingredients like cheese, tomato, and onion.

Braaibroodjie

Vetkoek is a traditional Afrikaner fried dough bread. It can be served with both sweet and savoury fillings, making it a versatile snack or meal in Sossusvlei.

Vetkoek

Mopane Worms are a type of caterpillar that is a popular snack in Namibia. They are usually dried and then cooked in a sauce. This is a unique food experience for visitors to Sossusvlei.

Mopane Worms

Oshifima, also known as mahangu porridge, is a staple food in Namibia. It is made from pearl millet and is often served with meat or vegetable stew.

Oshifima

Oshikundu is a traditional Namibian drink made from fermented millet. It is both a refreshing and nutritious drink often enjoyed in Sossusvlei.

Oshikundu

Tafel Lager is a popular beer in Namibia. It is a light and crisp lager that is often enjoyed in the hot climate of Sossusvlei.

Tafel Lager

Amarula Cream Liqueur is a sweet and creamy alcoholic drink made from the fruit of the African Marula tree. It's a popular drink for visitors to Sossusvlei to try.

Amarula Cream Liqueur

Rooibos Tea is a herbal tea that is popular in Namibia. It is made from the leaves of the rooibos bush and is often enjoyed in the peaceful surroundings of Sossusvlei.

Rooibos Tea

New Year

New Year observed

Independence Day

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Workers' Day

Cassinga Day

Ascension Day

Africa Day

Heroes' Day

Day of the Namibian Women and International Human Rights Day

Day of the Namibian Women and International Human Rights Day observed

Christmas Day

Family Day

A small settlement with a popular bakery, gas station, and lodge.

Solitaire

A natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab rivier in the local sedimentary rock.

A coastal city known for its German colonial architecture and sandy beaches.

Swakopmund

A group of bald granite peaks in the Namib desert.

Spitzkoppe

The capital and largest city of Namibia, known for its German colonial architecture.

Windhoek

A national park in northwestern Namibia, known for its salt pan and diverse wildlife.

Etosha National Park

A star dune in the Sossusvlei area of the Namib Desert.

Dune 45

A white clay pan located near the more famous salt pan of Sossusvlei.

Dead Vlei

A national park encompassing part of the Namib Desert and the Naukluft mountain range.

The largest canyon in Africa, part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.

Fish River Canyon

Damaraland

Tote Bäume im Deadvlei (Sossusvlei, Namibia)

The Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world

Dune 45, a massive red sand dune in the Namib Desert

Big Daddy Dune in  Namib-Naukluft National Park

Sossusvlei is located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park of Namibia.

The best time to visit Sossusvlei is during the cooler months of May to October.

The area is extremely hot and dry, with summer temperatures often reaching 104°F (40°C) and winter nights dropping to 32°F (0°C).

Remember to pack light, breathable clothing for the day and warmer layers for the cooler evenings.

Sun protection is essential. Pack a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.

Hydration is key in this arid environment. Always carry plenty of water with you.

The area is remote and facilities are limited. It's advisable to bring essentials like snacks, toiletries, and first aid supplies.

There are a few lodges and campsites in the area for accommodation, but they can fill up quickly, so book in advance.

The closest town to Sossusvlei is Sesriem, about 37 miles (60 km) away.

There is a small shop and fuel station in Sesriem, but supplies are limited and prices are high.

The park gates at Sesriem open at sunrise and close at sunset. Plan your day accordingly.

A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the sandy roads in and around Sossusvlei.

The last 4 miles (6 km) to Sossusvlei itself can only be accessed by 4x4 or on foot.

There is a shuttle service from the 2x4 parking area to Sossusvlei, but it operates at specific times and costs extra.

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and ostriches. Always observe animals from a safe distance.

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is a malaria-free zone, but it's always a good idea to check with your doctor before traveling.

There is no cell phone reception in the park, so plan your communications accordingly.

Credit cards are not widely accepted in the area, so bring enough cash for your needs.

Tipping is customary in Namibia. A 10% tip is standard for good service.

English is widely spoken in Namibia, but learning a few words of the local languages can enhance your experience.

January is the hottest month in Sossusvlei, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. It's also the wettest month, so pack some rain gear.

February is still very hot, with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and occasional rain.

March sees a slight drop in temperature, but it's still quite hot. The rains also start to lessen.

April is the start of the cooler season in Sossusvlei. The weather is more comfortable, and the chance of rain is low.

May is a great time to visit Sossusvlei, as the weather is mild and dry. It's perfect for outdoor activities.

June is the coolest month in Sossusvlei, with temperatures dropping to 6°C at night. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

July is similar to June, with cool temperatures and dry weather. It's another good month for outdoor activities.

August sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still quite comfortable. The weather remains dry.

September is the start of the warmer season in Sossusvlei. The weather is still dry, making it a good time to visit.

October is quite hot in Sossusvlei, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C. The weather is still dry.

November is very hot, with temperatures similar to the summer months. It's also the start of the rainy season.

December is hot and wet in Sossusvlei. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and occasional rain.

When planning a trip to Sossusvlei, Namibia, it's important to consider the weather conditions as they can significantly impact your experience. Sossusvlei is located in the Namib Desert, one of the hottest places on earth. 

The best time to visit Sossusvlei is during the cooler months, from May to October. During this period, daytime temperatures typically range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), making it comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking and sandboarding. However, remember to pack warm clothing as night temperatures can drop to as low as 32°F (0°C).

From November to April, Sossusvlei experiences its summer season. During this time, temperatures can soar up to 104°F (40°C) in the daytime. If you're visiting during these months, it's advisable to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense. Always carry plenty of water, sunblock, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun.

Rainfall in Sossusvlei is scarce and unpredictable, but when it does occur, it's usually between January and April. While the rain can make travel more challenging, it also brings a unique beauty to the desert landscape, causing the desert flora to bloom and attracting a variety of wildlife.

Regardless of when you visit, remember that the desert climate can be harsh and unpredictable. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out for the day and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

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2-Day Local Family Experience: Sightseeing & Relaxation in Sossusvlei

About Sossusvlei, Namibia