Sossusvlei - Discovering Namibia

Travelling to Sossusvlei

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sossusvlei, a pretty good destination in Namibia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sossusvlei and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sossusvlei, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Namibia, here's everything to know about Sossusvlei for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is a place located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in Namibia, Africa. It is a part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa. Sossusvlei's main attraction is its towering red sand dunes, some of which are among the highest in the world, reaching up to 380 meters tall. The area also features unique flora and fauna, including the ancient Welwitschia plant and the endemic dune spider. Visitors can participate in activities such as hiking, photography, and hot air balloon rides to experience the breathtaking beauty of Sossusvlei. It is a must-see destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts visiting Namibia.

What to visit in Sossusvlei

Sure, here are the tourist attractions of Sossusvlei in Namibia along with some information on each of them: 1. Dune 45: It is one of the most popular dunes to climb in Sossusvlei. It is about 80 meters high and provides a stunning view of the surrounding desert.
2. Dead Vlei: It is a clay pan with dead acacia trees in the middle of Sossusvlei. It is believed that the trees died because the river that once flowed here changed course.
3. Sossusvlei: It is a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red sand dunes. It is one of the most iconic landscapes in Namibia.
4. Sesriem Canyon: It is a natural canyon that was formed by the Tsauchab River. It is about 30 meters deep and is a popular spot for hiking and photography.
5. Big Daddy Dune: It is the tallest dune in Sossusvlei, standing at over 300 meters high. It is a challenging climb, but the view from the top is breathtaking.
6. Hiddenvlei: It is a smaller clay pan than Dead Vlei, but is equally stunning. It is surrounded by sand dunes and has a few dead trees in the middle.
7. Elim Dune: It is a smaller dune that can be easily climbed and is perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset.
8. Naukluft Mountains: It is a mountain range that is part of the larger Namib Naukluft National Park. It is a great place for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Namibia.
9. Tsauchab River: It is a seasonal river that flows into Sossusvlei. It is a popular spot for hiking and camping.
These are some of the main tourist attractions of Sossusvlei in Namibia. Each of them offers a unique experience and a chance to explore the natural beauty of this stunning desert landscape.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Namibia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sossusvlei.

When to go on holiday to Sossusvlei

The best time to visit Sossusvlei in Namibia is during the dry season which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is cooler, there is less chance of rain, and the light is ideal for photography, especially of the red sand dunes. Despite the cooler weather, it can still be very hot during the day, so it is important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The rainy season runs from November to March and during this time, the park may be closed due to flooding of the rivers and tracks.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is a popular destination in Namibia, located in the Namib Desert. Here are the transportation options to get to Sossusvlei: 1. By car: The most convenient way to get to Sossusvlei is by renting a car and driving yourself. You can pick up a rental car from Windhoek and drive the 4-5 hours southwest to Sossusvlei. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive.
2. By shuttle: There are regular shuttle services that run between Windhoek and Sossusvlei. These can be arranged through tour operators or your hotel.
3. By guided tour: Many tour operators offer guided tours to Sossusvlei. This is a good option if you don't want to drive yourself and prefer to have a guide show you around.
4. By air: If you have a higher budget, you can take a charter flight from Windhoek to Sossusvlei. This is a quicker way to get there and also offers stunning aerial views of the desert.
Note that Sossusvlei is located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, so a park entry fee will be required for your visit.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sossusvlei, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei, located in the Namib Desert in Namibia, is known for its unique landscapes and wildlife. Here are some of the typical foods you can try while visiting: 1. Biltong: This is a type of dried meat, similar to beef jerky. It is usually made from game meat, like kudu or springbok, and has a salty and savory flavor.
2. Potjiekos: This is a stew that is traditionally cooked over an open fire in a cast iron pot. It can contain meat, vegetables, and spices, and is often served with rice or maize porridge.
3. Braaivleis: This is a South African term for grilled or barbecued meat. In Namibia, it is typically cooked over an open fire and can include game meat like ostrich, kudu, or springbok.
4. Kapana: This is a popular street food in Namibia. It consists of grilled or barbecued meat, usually beef, that is cut into small pieces and served with a spicy chili sauce.
5. Mopane worms: These are a type of caterpillar that is eaten as a snack or added to stews. They have a nutty flavor and are high in protein.
6. Oryx steak: Oryx is a type of antelope that is found in the Namib Desert. Its meat is lean and has a slightly gamey flavor.
7. Namibian rock lobster: This is a popular seafood dish in Namibia. The lobster is usually grilled or roasted and served with butter and lemon.
8. Vetkoek: This is a fried dough ball that is similar to a beignet or a donut. It can be filled with meat, cheese, or jam and is often served as a snack or dessert.
You can find general info about typical foods in Namibia here.

Is Sossusvlei an expensive destination for tourists?

Sossusvlei can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to a number of factors including its remote location, limited availability of accommodation, and the cost of activities such as balloon rides and guided tours. Additionally, entrance fees to the Sossusvlei area can also be expensive. However, some tourists may choose to stay at more budget-friendly options outside of the park, or to self-drive into the park, which can help to reduce costs. Overall, the cost of a trip to Sossusvlei will depend on individual preferences and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Sossusvlei

When visiting Sossusvlei in Namibia, it's generally best to find accommodation in the nearby towns of Sesriem or Solitaire. These towns offer a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites and guesthouses, all within relatively close proximity to Sossusvlei. Another option is to stay at one of the lodges inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, which provide easy access to the famous sand dunes. It's important to note that accommodations within the park tend to book up quickly, so it's recommended that you make reservations well in advance.
You can check hotel prices at Sossusvlei here:
Booking.com

Is Sossusvlei a safe destination for tourists?

Sossusvlei in Namibia is considered to be a safe place for tourists. Crime against visitors is not common, but it is still important to take standard safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to travel with a guide or in a group if possible, especially when exploring the desert areas. Additionally, it is wise to carry enough water and food with you, as temperatures can be extremely high during the day.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Namibia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sossusvlei.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sossusvlei the most?

Sossusvlei is a great destination for travelers looking for adventure and nature. This includes couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the beauty of the desert together. Young people can experience adventure activities such as sandboarding and quad biking on the dunes. Families can enjoy a fun-filled desert experience and introduce their children to the unique landscapes of Namibia. It is important to note that Sossusvlei involves a lot of walking over uneven terrain, so travelers should ensure they are physically capable of handling such activities.

How to get around Sossusvlei

The best way to move around Sossusvlei is by car, preferably a 4x4 if you want to explore the area beyond the main roads. There are several car rental companies in Namibia, and it's recommended that you rent a car in either Windhoek or Walvis Bay. You can also join guided tours or hire a private guide with a vehicle to take you around the area. Biking and hiking are also possible options if you have the experience and desire for adventure.

What to see around Sossusvlei

Sure, here are some places you could visit: 1. Sesriem Canyon - a natural gorge that has been formed by the Tsauchab River.
2. Naukluft Mountains - a beautiful mountain range that is perfect for hiking and experiencing stunning views.
3. Solitaire - a small town in the Namib Desert that is famous for its apple pie.
4. Kuiseb Canyon - a large canyon that is known for its dramatic scenery and unique geographical features.
5. Dead Vlei - a large salt pan in the Namib-Naukluft National Park that is famous for its stark, white trees contrasted against the red sand dunes.
6. Dune 45 - a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views of the surrounding dunes and its height, which makes it one of the highest sand dunes in the world.
7. Spitzkoppe - a group of granite rocks that are over 120 million years old, featuring a beautiful view over the surrounding savannah.
All these places are suitable for a day trip from Sossusvlei and offer a unique experience to different visitors.
For every travel information about Namibia you can click here.

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