Located in Namibia at the southern limit of its vast and photogenic Namib-Naukluft National Park is Sossusvlei, one of the most photographed natural landscapes on Earth. Known for its high red dunes, magical white clay pans, and outstanding scenery Sossusvlei is a natural beauty that should be experienced by all adventurers. In this complete travel guide for Sossusvlei, we will give you all the information about when to go visit, what there is to see, and where it stays so that everything is organized according to your interest.
Why Visit Sossusvlei?
Stunning Landscapes
The boasts some of the tallest dunes in the world, Big Daddy and Dune 45 being among the top choices for visitors visiting this iconic landscape. The red of the dunes compared to the white salty pans and deep blue skies is a majestic backdrop for photography around any corner.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Several unique desert plants and animals thrive in this unfarmable land. The dead and gnarled iconic camel thorn trees give the haunting beauty to Sossusvlei, on which you can also catch glimpses of wildlife such as oryx, springbok, and most bird species.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit(May -October)
The driest months coincide with the best time to visit Sossusvlei, from May to October. It is a time when the temperatures begin mellowing down giving you moments to explore both the dunes as well as its vicinity with great ease. The majority of the day is bathed in a warm hour and golden point light, illuminating all that surrounds it with intense color — an ideal situation for photography.
Rainy season (November — April)
The wet season (November to April) can sometimes be rainy, but it also turns the desert into a bloomier place. The pans fill with rainwater, and the area becomes lush and green attracting wildlife. Still, the sweltering heat can be homicidal and some spots may soak;k in water become off-limits.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest main airport to Sossusvlei is Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport. There you could fly a domestic flight to Sossusvlei or choose an astonishing road trip.
By Road
Sossusvlei can be reached by car, allowing visitors to explore Namibia’s vast landscapes on the way. The park can be reached on good quality roads, normally by 2WD or a 4WD (wet season).
Accommodations
Inside the Park
If you prefer to stay close by, consider accommodation at either the lodges or camps inside the park. Options include:
Sossusvlei Lodge — This comfortable lodge is situated right outside the park and it provides easy entrance to the dunes.
Desert Camp — This is an eco-friendly option where you can find self-catering units with views over the desert landscape.
Outside the Park
For more facilities, you can stay in one of the nearby guesthouses or hotels at Sesriem. Here you may get off the beaten path a little bit and still be near Sossusvlei.
What to See and Do
Climbing the Dunes
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN SOSSUSVLEI – THE ICONIC DUNES Dune 45 – this one is the most popular and provides amazing views from the summit. More adventurous types may even want to have a go at climbing Big Daddy, the highest dune in Sossusvlei, and enjoy panoramic views of the salt pan and desert landscape.
Visit Deadvlei
Deadvlei is an iconic site in Sossusvlei with a white clay pan surrounded by red dunes, studded with ancient dead camel thorn trees. The sharp contrast between stale white pan, rusted dunes, and cobalt blue overhead makes for a photographer’s dream.
Explore Sesriem Canyon
Sesriem Canyon Just a short drive from Sossusvlei, being the river that does not die Sesriem is only one of 3 natural wonders found on this stretch of Namib desert (the other two are familiar to you). The park offers great hiking trails and the canyon, of course, can be explored for its unique natural formations. It is a great place for a cold refuge from the scorching desert temperature.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
For the most memorable experience, you can choose to opt for a hot air balloon ride over the Namib Desert. Watch the spectacle of landscapes from an elevation in the dawn when sunlight falls on dunes. From this solid foundation, I add a luxury to one of the experiences most helicopter operators offer upon landing — breakfast.
Tips for Your Visit
Stay Hydrated
The desert climate in Namibia is rugged and extremely hot, temperatures soar easily. For sure bring lots of water, especially if you go hiking or spend a lot of time out in the dunes.
Dress Appropriately
At night turn it into more at day by wearing light, breathable clothing. You will need some sturdy hiking shoes to hike up the dunes and/or if you wish explore a bit further into rockier areas.
Respect the Environment
Sossusvlei is an ecologically sensitive area. Keep to the grey tracks and do not climb on dunes so that we can preserve their natural beauty!
Plan for Early MorningsTo get the best light as well as cooler temps, aim to arrive at the park gates not long after sunrise. Making you catch the breathtaking sunrise of the dunes while escaping the midday sun.
Conclusion
Sossusvlei is a stunning place that serves up plenty of adventure and memories for the reliving. Featuring towering dunes, otherworldly landscapes, and loads of wildlife diversity — it will forsake no one visiting this magnificent country. We will have lifetime memories from these dunes, whether hiking them or taking pictures of the surreal landscape (and us). So gear up already to book your stay at this amazing place, plan your trip today, and uncover the spellbound beauty of Sossusvlei!
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