Sossusvlei is the heart of the Namib desert and the symbol image of Namibia. Red dunes up to 300 meters high, Deadvlei with its fossilized trees, Big Daddy to climb at dawn. It's one of those places that doesn't disappoint.
Sossusvlei: what it is and where it is located
Sossusvlei is a salt clay basin surrounded by the highest dunes of Namib, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It is located in the southwest of Namibia, about 60 km from the entrance of Sesriem.
The name means approximately “pan without exit” in the Nama language. When it rains enough (uncommon event), the Tsauchab River brings water to the pan.
Deadvlei: the most famous photo of Namibia
Deadvlei is a white clay pan with fossilized camelthorn trees (Acacia erioloba) died about 900 years ago, when the river stopped bringing water. The arid conditions prevented the decomposition: they stand, black, on the blinding white of the pan, with the red dunes around.
It is the most reproduced image of Namibia. And live it's even more surreal.
Big Daddy: the dune to climb
Big Daddy is the tallest dune near Deadvlei, about 325 meters. Climbing Big Daddy at dawn is a physically challenging but visually extraordinary experience. The sand is more compact and fresh in the early morning.
It is not mandatory. Many visitors stick to Deadvlei and Sossusvlei without going up. It depends on your fitness and temperature.
When to visit Sossusvlei
The best visit is always in the early hours of the morning, immediately after the opening of the Sesriem gate. The light is more beautiful, the most manageable temperatures and there is less crowd.
The absolute best time is dry season (May-October). In summer temperatures during the day can exceed 45°C. The morning visit always remains the best choice in any season.
How to get to Sossusvlei
The entrance to the park is from the Sesriem gate. From there it is approximately 60km of asphalt road to the Sossusvlei area.
The last 4-5 km from Sossusvlei to Deadvlei are on soft sand: they require a vehicle with traction or the transport shuttles of the park. With a 4x4 you can drive us directly.
The Sesriem gate opens an hour before the sun rises. Those who sleep in a lodge near the gate can enter at dawn. Those coming from far away lose the best hours.
Where to sleep near Sossusvlei
There are several lodge options and campsites in the Sesriem area. The campsite inside the gate (Sesriem Campsite, managed by NWR) is the most convenient for those who want to enter at dawn.
Lodges outside the gate are more comfortable but require to wake up early to get to the opening. All lodges in the area must be booked in advance, especially in high season.
What to bring to Sossusvlei
- Lots of water (at least 2-3 liters per person)
- High protection sun cream
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes (sand can be very hot)
- Camera with charged batteries
Redland Council
Sussusvlei must be lived at dawn. The sun that illuminates the dunes, the long shadows on Deadvlei, the light that changes every minute: this is why it is worth rising before the sun rises. Those who arrive in the middle of the morning find warm, flat light and less magic.
Planning to visit Sossusvlei?
Write to us. We help you with logistics and reservations in the Sesriem area.
FAQ:
What is Sossusvlei?
Sossusvlei is a salt clay basin surrounded by the red dunes of the Namib desert, inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It is one of the most photographed places in Namibia.
What is Deadvlei?
Deadvlei is a white pan with black fossilized trees over 900 years old, surrounded by red dunes. It is the symbolic image of Namibia.
When to visit Sossusvlei?
The best visit is early in the morning, immediately after the opening of the gate. The light is better, the most manageable temperatures and there is less crowd.
How do you get to Sossusvlei?
You enter the gate of Sesriem, about 65 km from the main door. The last 4-5 km to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei require a vehicle with traction or shuttle of the park.
Can you climb the Sossusvlei dunes?
Yes, some dunes like Big Daddy are accessible to visitors. The climb is physically challenging. It is recommended in the early hours of the morning when the sand is fresher.
How many nights to stay near Sossusvlei?
At least one night near the Sesriem gate to be able to enter at dawn. Two nights allow for a more complete and relaxed visit.
Do you need to book in advance for Sossusvlei?
Yes, lodges near Sesriem and inside the park fill quickly, especially in high season. Book 6-12 months in advance is recommended.
Can Sossusvlei be visited in any season?
Yes, but the best time is there dry season. In summer the heat can be extreme. The best light for photography is in dry season, at early morning hours.
